Asian dramas like
Jang Young Shil

Chung Nyeong, born as the third prince, was far from being in line for the throne. His formative years were marked by turmoil as Korea dealt with political strife both internally and externally, and he even faced the threat of abduction during his childhood. As he grew, the young prince found himself residing in a private home outside the palace, experiencing the daily lives of ordinary citizens until he reached young adulthood. Upon eventually taking the throne, Chung Nyeong, who became known as King Se Jong, worked to stabilize the newly established nation and fostered the flourishing culture of Joseon. During this time, he also created Hangul, the writing system used in Korea.

Queen Insu (1437-1504), spouse of King Deok Jong and daughter of Hanh Wak, who served as the second state councilor, was designated as Queen Insu beginning in the second year of Sung Jong's reign. She is regarded as one of the most remarkable stateswomen in the history of Joseon. The television series illustrates the tragic fates and relationships of three women. During the reign of King Dan Jong, the sixth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, Prince Soo Yang's son, Do Won, was wed to Han Jung. Distinct from other women of her time, Han Jung openly pursued her political ambitions. Ultimately, she opposed her mother-in-law, Queen Jung Hee, and maneuvered to place her son on the throne. The arrival of Deposed Queen Lady Yun escalated the tensions among the three women to a dramatic peak. (JTBC)

The plot revolves around Kwangjong, who served as the monarch during the reign of the Koryo Dynasty from 918 to 1392.

The plot revolves around Emperor Wang Gun, who established the Goryo Dynasty.

To ensure Koryo's independence, Gong Min Wang wed a woman he had no affection for. With Mongolian forces in control of Koryo, he took the Mongolian princess as his wife, believing this alliance might eventually lead to Koryo's liberation. Shin Don, a Buddhist monk, was a key advisor to both Queen Nokuk and King Gong Min in their governance of Koryo.

This story revolves around Lady Kim, a cunning concubine, and the turbulent events that occurred during the reign of King Seon Jo to Prince Gwang Hae, marked by immoral acts and violence all in the name of safeguarding the throne. Prince Gwang Hae's immoral actions were not unique to the Joseon dynasty. In the pursuit of protecting the throne, a parent murdered their offspring, a brother killed another brother, and a wife assassinated her husband. However, their deeds were not simply immoral acts. It is conceivable that other kings would have behaved similarly to Prince Gwang Hae if faced with the same imminent threat to their rule.

This show revolves around the story of Qin Shi Huang, the inaugural ruler who brought together China under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC.

Si Young, the eldest son of Park Hee Chan, is aware of the reason behind his father's insistence on him succeeding the family business. He is known for his ruthless business tactics and gradually evolves into a formidable leader while managing the guild. On the other hand, Jae Young, his younger brother, forges his own path and refrains from adopting his brother's cutthroat business approach.

A play depicting the extraordinary life of Qi Jun Zao, a learned individual from the Qing dynasty. He held positions under four rulers and educated three of them.

The drama will portray significant historical occurrences with a scholar at its core. Ryu Seong Ryong was a government official who served during the late 16th century under King Seon Jo. A distinguished Confucian scholar, he was appointed to oversee military efforts during the Imjin War and had a considerable impact on Admiral Lee Soon Shin. The narrative begins prior to the onset of the Imjin War and will track the characters through to the Battle of Noryang and the demise of Lee Soon Shin.

The tale of King Geun Cho Go, the warrior monarch of Baekje, unfolded during a time when the kingdom flourished. His leadership saw military victories that enabled him to dominate a substantial portion of the Korean peninsula, leading to a significant increase in political influence, which marked the pinnacle of Baekje's historical power.

Rewritten text: The story revolves around the experiences of a Tzu Chi volunteer named Faisal Hu Guangzhong, who follows the Islamic faith.

This drama narrates the tale of Jang Hee Bin, a renowned royal concubine during the Joseon Dynasty, who played a significant part in the ousting of King Sook Jong’s spouse, Queen In Hyun. However, in contrast to the numerous dramas and films that depict this infamous antagonist, this series will explore the life of Jang Ok Jung prior to her rise as concubine Jang Hee Bin, highlighting her contributions as a fashion designer and cosmetic creator in the Joseon period.

In a fictional historical drama, Lee Tae becomes the ruler of Joseon after his father, King Sunjong, removes the previous king from power with the assistance of Park Gye Won. Lee Tae aims to govern as a supreme monarch, but faces opposition from the powerful Park Gye Won. Amidst this power struggle within the royal court, Yoo Jung, a noblewoman believed to be Lee Tae's wife, gets caught in the middle.

The show centers on Ren Bi Shi, a prominent figure in the early days of the Chinese Communist Party, recounting his journey from the mid-1920s until his passing in 1950, showcasing his growth and successes as a revolutionary within the communist movement.

The story unfolds with Comrade Nie Rong Zhen's formative years in France and chronicles his involvement in the Agrarian Revolution and the Anti-Japanese War, showcasing key historical events and personal trials during periods such as the War of Liberation and the founding of New China. By honoring and reviving history, the drama introduces a vivid and emotionally resonant portrayal of Nie Rong Zhen to the viewers.

The play depicts the life of Comrade Liu Shao Qi as he journeys through the "Four Dao Villages" of county, provincial, imperial, and national gates in search of truth and the Eight-character Scriptures, all in pursuit of understanding how to save the country and pave the way for a new China. Liu Shao Qi became a member of the party in 1921 at Moscow Oriental University before returning to China the following year to lead the "Anyuan Road Mine Strike." Throughout the Great Revolution, he bravely handled the aftermath in the White District amidst shifting circumstances. During the Anti-Japanese War, Liu Shao Qi took on a leadership role within the central government and was later appointed as the vice chairman of the Central People’s Government following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. He played a crucial part in shaping the country’s political, economic, cultural, educational, and foreign policies. In the early 1960s, Liu Shao Qi worked to address China’s economic challenges by conducting on-site investigations and contributing to the development of key policy measures. A memorial service was held for Liu Shao Qi on May 17, 1980, commemorating his enduring dedication to the Chinese revolution and his steadfast belief in communism.

The play was created in honor of the centenary of Comrade Peng Zhen's birth, depicting his life from 1929 to 1990

During Emperor Songzong's rule, the government of Kaifeng faces a crisis. Public servant Baau Cing, guardian Gung Syun Caak, and Chin Chiu unite to fight corruption. Wan Chin Yu, a merchant's daughter, learns law from Gung Syun Caak and becomes a skilled advocate. Maid Gei Nim Nim excels in performing autopsies. Together, the two women assist the seven men of Kaifeng in solving numerous cases. However, dangers abound in Kaifeng. As Baau Cing and Nim Nim grow closer, their budding romance is threatened when he uncovers her true identity, which hides a significant conspiracy. Chin Yu's father harbors treacherous ambitions and accuses the Emperor of being an impostor. Baau Cing faces his toughest challenge yet. Will he sacrifice his principles for the greater good or expose the truth? (TVBAnywhere; Casual TVB)

In the late 14th century, King Taejong ended the Goryeo Dynasty to create the Kingdom of Joseon. There were rumors of a pact he made with a malevolent being that possessed people to spread chaos. The king's sons, Princes Chung Nyung and Yang Nyeong, opposed him for different reasons. The show was terminated after airing only two episodes.

This play depicts the experiences and conflicts of the legendary fighter Genghis Khan.

A theatrical production that portrays the life of King Gwang Gae To the Great, who reclaimed the splendor of Goguryeo by regaining control from Baekje, which had invaded Goguryeo before Gwang Gae To's arrival and ruled over East Asia during the reign of King Geun Cho Go.

Pottery from the Joseon dynasty was distinguished by its superior quality and innovative firing techniques during the late 16th century. Baek Pa Seon, known as the "woman of fire," was the first female potter in Joseon and recognized as the master of Shintaro porcelain. Crown Prince Gwang Hae held a deep affection for her but ultimately had to part ways. This television series focuses on her formative years in Joseon rather than Japan, where a shrine honors her legacy. (MBC)

This series follows the life of a young Prince named Hong Li, who later becomes Emperor Qian Long. Despite being the obvious choice to succeed his father Yong Zheng, Hong Li faces challenges and hardships on his journey to maturity. With a sincere and direct approach, he tries to use his education to improve the state's affairs. Surprisingly, this approach displeases Yong Zheng, leading the 3rd and 5th Princes, guided by their teacher Mr. Tian, to win over Yong Zheng and influence his decision to pass the throne to someone else.

Following the confrontation at Xuan Wu Gate with his siblings Li Jian Cheng and Li Yuan Ji, Li Shi Min ascended to the throne as the second emperor of the Tang dynasty, adopting the era title Zhen Guan. Despite facing obstacles and internal disputes, his rule ushered in a period of stability and prosperity for the nation and its citizens.

Lee Lin Yin and On Tak Hoi, who both came from humble backgrounds, were sold into servitude as palace eunuchs when they were young. Under the guidance of senior eunuch Lau Dor San, they formed a strong brotherly bond and rose to prominent positions serving Empress Dowager Ci Xi. However, Tak Hoi's greed strained his relationship with the cautious Lin Yin. As the head eunuch, Chan Fuk felt threatened by their rising influence and began scheming against them. Fortunately, Lin Yin received support from palace maid Sin Yung and eunuch pharmacist Yiu Seung Hei. Meanwhile, tensions rose as Emperor Tong Zi prepared to select his empress, causing concern for Empress Dowager Ci An that Ci Xi would gain more power. To counter this, she allied with the Grand Prince to weaken Ci Xi's position.

The narrative revolves around the life of Dae Jo Yeong, who is recognized as the founder of the Balhae kingdom.

This drama portrays the story of Kim Man Deok, a woman from Jeju Island who rose above her humble beginnings as a gisaeng and the limitations imposed by her isolated birthplace, which was viewed as a distant exile at that time. She emerged as a prosperous female trader during the Joseon Era. Eventually, she gained recognition as a paragon of virtue and nobility by donating her entire fortune to assist the people of Jeju during a famine, thereby saving numerous lives.

The series follows the life of Qiao Zhiyong, a prominent figure in the Qiao Family from Qi County, Shanxi, during the late Qing Dynasty. It begins with Qiao Zhiyong leaving for Beijing to take the imperial examination during the Xianfeng Emperor's rule. However, he is forced to return home without completing the exam due to the passing of his older brother, Qiao Zhiguang. Despite his initial reluctance, Qiao is persuaded by his sister-in-law, Madam Cao, to take over the family business as it is struggling financially. To prevent the family from going bankrupt, Qiao reluctantly marries Lu Yuhan, the daughter of wealthy Shanxi merchant Lu Dake. With Qiao at the helm, the family business eventually becomes profitable once again.

Portrays the heartfelt journey of Jiao Yu Lu, a dedicated member of the Chinese Communist Party, from her involvement in the revolution to sacrificing her life for the people

During the initial phase of his youth, from 1225 to 1227, Kublai Khan absorbed the teachings and actions of his grandfather Genghis Khan, underwent training, expanded his knowledge, and contemplated his future, which shaped his perspective on life and values. In the following period known as the "hidden mansion years" from 1232 to 1259, Kublai Khan faced challenges after losing his father and was guided by his greatmother Soluheteni, ultimately shouldering the responsibilities of his family and the Khanate. The third phase, Zhizai Kunyuan, spanning from 1260 to 1271, saw Kublai Khan's struggle to claim the Khan throne, defeat Ali Buge, and initiate the unification of China. Lastly, the era of great Qianyuan from 1271 to 1293 marked Kublai Khan's establishment as the first emperor of a minority in China, successfully achieving the unification and governance of the country.

This tale delves into the ethical principles of a merchant and the significance of wealth. Renowned author Choi In Ho narrates the legend of Im Sang Ok, a celebrated Korean trader during the Joseon Dynasty (1779-1855).

This play is set in the tumultuous Spring and Autumn Period and recounts the famous tale of Gou Jian, the King of Yue, who experienced a downfall and subsequent resurgence. Following his defeat, Gou Jian was taken captive and made a slave by King Fu Chai of Wu. Pretending to be obedient and loyal while secretly plotting his revenge during his captivity, Gou Jian eventually earns the chance to go back to his homeland of Yue. When he resumes his rule, Gou Jian strengthens his kingdom with the assistance of skilled advisers and politicians such as Fan Li and Wen Zhong, while also weakening Wu internally through bribery and strategic diplomacy. The phrase "Wo Xin Chang Dan" symbolizes Gou Jian's perseverance and self-imposed challenges meant to constantly remind himself of the humiliations he endured while under Wu's control. - Lady Zhuge.

Baek Dae Gil and King Yeong Jo face off in a high-stakes game. Baek Dae Gil wagers his life, while King Yeong Jo stakes the entire Joseon Kingdom on the result. Renowned as the greatest gambler of the Joseon period, Baek Dae Gil harbors intense bitterness within, yet maintains a composed facade. King Yeong Jo is a ruler who never bows his head without a compelling justification. At the same time, Dam Seo is driven solely by a desire for vengeance against the king.

The narrative revolves around a peasant named Yang Yuk Wan who is selected by the emperor to serve as one of his concubines. As she strives to gain the emperor's attention and favor, Yang Yuk Wan faces hostility from envious concubines who are determined to eliminate their competition. (spcnet.tv, DramaWiki) This account is inspired by the real-life events of Yeung Yuk Wan, also recognized as Concubine Yeung Gwai or Lady Yang.

This tale revolves around Dongfang Shuo, a scholar during the Han dynasty who served as a court jester to Emperor Wu of Han. Unlike other scholars and officials in Emperor Wu's era, Dongfang Shuo had unique qualities. Despite falling in love with both a prostitute named Luo Qi and Princess Ping Yang, his unconventional advice was often disregarded, resulting in no change in his rank. Surprisingly, Emperor Wu never punished Dongfang Shuo and allowed him to remain by his side. Dongfang Shuo's intelligence was evident as he mediated conflicts within the Emperor's harem, modified Heqin's strategies, and provided counsel on how to combat the Xiongnu. However, the Emperor's arrogance led to setbacks for his empire, with the Xiongnu winning multiple battles and the loss of the young general Huo Qu Bing in combat. Realizing the Emperor's unwillingness to heed his advice, Dongfang Shuo eventually parted ways with him.

Following the demise of the Huo family, Chen Zhen took his master's only heir, Huo Dong Jue, and departed Shanghai to find sanctuary in Peking in disguise. Assuming the alias Cheng Zhi En, he worked as a servant in the Fang household, devoted to nurturing Huo Dong Jue into a skilled individual with expertise in both civil and military affairs, carrying on the legacy of the Huo family. Initially able to live discreetly and maintain a cordial relationship with Miss Fang Jia and former Qingwu champion Huang Fu, Chen Zhen found himself drawn into national affairs as the conflict between Fang Jia, the Alliance Spinning Factory, and the Hongkou Gang escalated.

Season 4 of The Eloquent Ji Xiaolan includes the stories: Xiaoyue's Homecoming, The Revolution that Wasn't, The Written Conversation Case, and Loyalty Temple. Ji Xiao Lan, a wise scholar who upholds justice fairly, Emperor Qian Long from the Kangxi-Qianlong era, and the corrupt He Shen, who accepts bribes and twists the law, once again engage in hilarious yet profound tragicomedies. (Ruyi Films)

An ancient tale of eternal life drives a romantic saga spanning over three thousand years. According to legend, the first Emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, dispatched Xu Fu to the eastern seas in search of the elixir of immortality. Tragedy strikes when forbidden love blooms between the maiden Han Dong'er and Meng Tianfang, leading to Han sacrificing herself by feeding Meng the elixir before both are turned into terracotta warriors. Fast forward to modern-day China, where a terracotta warrior mysteriously comes to life and vanishes from the museum. A Japanese man named Haneda, claiming to be Xu Fu's descendant, embarks on a quest to find the living terracotta warrior who consumed the elixir and uncover Emperor Qin's tomb in Xi'an. Meanwhile, actors Zhu Lili and Lan Tian accidentally stumble upon a passageway leading to the tomb. Will they unravel the mystery of the living terracotta warrior, safeguard the Emperor's resting place, and unearth the key to everlasting life?

After losing her parents at a young age, Liu E journeys to the capital city of Kaifeng where she attracts the attention of Zhao Heng. Despite being a concubine, Liu E displays a keen understanding of political matters and frequently engages in discussions with Zhao Heng. This dynamic persists even after Zhao Heng ascends to the throne in 997. Following the adoption of a concubine's son (who later becomes Emperor Renzong), Liu E is named empress and assumes the role of regent for the Song Dynasty during the final two years of her husband's rule. Liu E continues to govern until her passing in 1033, twelve years later. This account draws inspiration from the remarkable life of Empress Zhangxian Mingsu, also known as Liu E of the Song Dynasty.

The narrative revolves around the initial leaders of the Communist Party of China, with Mao Ze Dong at the forefront. In the midst of a national crisis, the Communist Party's inaugural congress was convened to establish and guide the party towards growth. Through Mao Ze Dong's perspective, the story delves into the primary societal conflicts in China post-1919, rooted in the party's evolution. This challenging journey paved the way for a groundbreaking revolutionary path, culminating in a significant triumph. (Douban)

Inspired by a historical figure, Ji Xiao Lan narrates the tale of an intelligent scholar serving as a top official under Emperor Qian Long in the Qing Dynasty. Ji Xiao Lan, known for his modesty and integrity, strives to aid the people affected by unfair treatment from heartless and dishonest government officials. He often clashes with the corrupt yet affable He Shen, a fellow official of the same rank but with more connections and resources. The series delves into various challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty government, such as famine, natural disasters, rebellion, censorship, murder cases, and widespread corruption. While the show primarily offers humor with wordplay, jokes, and absurd arguments, it also includes moments of serious and emotional drama. Emperor Qian Long occasionally joins the duo as their "third brother" during his secret travels across the country. Each season features loosely connected storylines comprising five to six narratives or arcs.

The narrative traces Mao Ze Dong's transformation from a participant in the First Congress of the Communist Party of China (1921-1927) to a revolutionary leader. Embracing Marxism, he progresses from a mere follower to a pioneer, leading China's revolution through organizing workers, expanding the party, and forming alliances with the Kuomintang. Mao's opposition to the Kuomintang's conservative faction and his focus on the peasant movement underscore his commitment to Marxism and Hunan culture. The story highlights his courageous leadership, blending intellect with action to shape the course of history.