Asian dramas like
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Derived from Sidney Sheldon's book "Master of the Game."

Prior to his passing, Chen Tian Nuo, the President of Tian Nuo Group, gifted two valuable Dong Qichang paintings worth 200 million to Xia Wei, who is a descendant of the Xia family. At the time, Tian Nuo Group was on the verge of bankruptcy due to financial difficulties. In a desperate attempt to save the company, Chen Jin Yu, the eldest son of the Tian Nuo Group, hatches a plan to bring Xia Wei into the family in order to gain access to the wealth associated with the paintings. (Baidu)

In a quaint museum located in the Suiren region of western China, there is a statue situated next to a well that was sculpted during the Xihan Dynasty over 2200 years ago, making it a priceless treasure. Throughout history, various governments have enacted laws to safeguard the statue, particularly during times of conflict. However, it has been frequently photographed, smuggled abroad, and exploited for profit through unauthorized rubbings.

Taking place at a household appliance company in Nagoya, the story unfolds as Meio Electrics, a leading home appliance manufacturer, receives a warning letter from Zestar Research Company in the United States. Accusing Meio of infringing on their solar panel patents, Zestar demands a significant amount in compensation and licensing fees. Hasegawa, a member of the Intellectual Property Department, is suspected of espionage amidst this unexpected turn of events, which occurs just as he embarks on his new life with his wife, Aoi. Zestar Research Company, known as a "Patent Troll," is controlled by a mysterious figure named Sawada. Meanwhile, Hama, responsible for preventing legal disputes within the company, faces criticism and disrespect from his superior, Muraoka. In a fit of rage, Hama ends up assaulting Muraoka and burying him in the mountains, sparking a tense conflict that jeopardizes the "love" and "pride" of the characters involved.

"I always seem to realize it afterwards... but it's always what she desired from the start!" Have you ever experienced that sensation? The secretive practice of "Dark Shinri-Jutsu" (also known as "Dark Psychology") involves utilizing everyday conversations, hints, words, and actions to influence the thoughts and feelings of others in order to control them according to your wishes, whether for positive and innocent purposes or to fulfill even the most sinister desires of the heart. Kuronosaki, a enigmatic, sharp-tongued, and sadistic individual, resolves numerous psychological issues, enigmas, and cases by employing this prohibited method. She may unexpectedly appear, chuckling, and ask a person struggling with interpersonal relationship problems, "Are you foolish?" before guiding them in using "black psychology" through a range of manipulative tactics such as storytelling, active listening, prompting speculation, interpreting and guiding body language, glances, gestures, and other triggering mechanisms that can be practiced in various settings, such as at home, work, or school, to effectively captivate the heart, instill motivation, guide emotional reactions, or promote communication and self-examination. A suspenseful drama filled with dark humor! Is it a life of manipulation or a life of being manipulated? (Nogizaka46.com)

In the 2003 novel "Hi no Ko" by Shizukui Sh suke, a man named Takeuchi Shingo, who was previously acquitted by retired judge Kajima Isao, moves in next door to Kajima's family. Takeuchi, who had a difficult childhood yearning for his parents' love, goes out of his way to please those he cares about. Despite his charming smile, thoughtful gifts, and care for the elderly, he becomes aggressive if he feels rejected. Although Takeuchi initially wins over the Kajima family with his kindness, strange incidents begin to happen in their neighborhood. Yukimi, the wife of Isao's son Toshir, sees through Takeuchi's facade and tries to expose him, despite being alienated from the family.

In Osaka, Sayoko Takeuchi engages in deceitful behavior by preying on elderly wealthy men and marrying them in hopes of inheriting their fortunes. She collaborates with Toru Kashiwagi, who manages a matchmaking service. Sayoko Takeuchi is currently wed to a rich elderly gentleman. When Tomomi Nakase receives news that her father has been hospitalized, she rushes to his side only to discover that he is unconscious and married to Sayoko Takeuchi. Determined to thwart Sayoko Takeuchi's plans to seize her father's wealth, Tomomi Nakase enlists the help of private investigator Yoshinori Honda to look into Sayoko Takeuchi and Toru Kashiwagi.

Amidst a dispute between the public relations office of D Prefectural Police and the correspondents club regarding the anonymity of perpetrators, it has been decided that a director from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department will visit the family of the victim in a significant unsolved case from 1989, just a week before the statute of limitations expires. The case involves the kidnapping and murder of Shoko-chan, which remains the most heinous crime in the history of D Prefectural Police. The family of the victim has declined the director's offer to extend condolences. A strict confidentiality order has been issued for all individuals involved in the case, including the investigators from that time. This has created a barrier between the Criminal Investigations Department and the Police Affairs Department. Additionally, a mysterious memo has surfaced, followed by a new kidnapping that bears a striking resemblance to the 1989 case just before the director's scheduled visit.

Illustrates the early years of the main protagonist Rika from the initial TV show in 2019. Based on the book "Rika".

Rinka Umezawa, a homemaker, seeks out small joys in life. Her husband, Masabumi, is committed to supporting her. The couple does not have any children. Rinka decides to take on a part-time job at a bank, where she visits clients' homes and occasionally assists them with household tasks, earning their trust. During one visit to client Kojo Hirabayashi's home, she encounters his grandson Kota, who asks for money. This interaction has a profound impact on Rinka. Subsequently, she steals one hundred million yen from the bank and disappears. Two years later, Rinka's former classmates Yuko Okazaki and Aki Nakaji uncover her embezzlement scheme and confront their own inner demons.

In the novel "Mirror Image" by Sandra Brown, Hirosawa Nodoka, a freelance journalist, infiltrates a cosmetic surgery clinic by befriending Fuyuko, the wife of the clinic's director Asakura Shuji. Nodoka's investigative mission takes a tragic turn when the plane she is on crashes, leading to her being mistaken for Fuyuko. With the help of plastic surgery, Nodoka's face is reconstructed to resemble Fuyuko's, and she wakes up believing she is Shuji's wife due to amnesia caused by the accident. As Nodoka begins to regain her memories, she faces a difficult choice between revealing the clinic's wrongdoings and returning to her old life, or continuing to live a lie for the sake of love.

Based on Fujita Yoshinaga's book "March of Happiness, March of Sadness."

Rugawa is an enigmatic individual who manages a video streaming platform known as Joker, where she generates income by uploading videos. She persuades Yanagi, a middle-aged man facing financial struggles after losing his job, to team up with her. Together, they produce videos that delve into controversial topics on Joker, such as the dark truths behind idol culture, fraudulent schemes targeting vulnerable elderly individuals, and matchmaking services disguised as legitimate businesses. Rugawa's audience is captivated by the intricate schemes she orchestrates, as she fearlessly exposes societal issues as a representative of online users. The question remains: what drives Rugawa to create such provocative content?

The narrative revolves around a family that unexpectedly inherits a substantial fortune, leading to a significant transformation in their lives. (en.taicike.com)

This tale of horror and suspense revolves around individuals who blur the boundaries of love. Kimura Mizuho relocates from Shizuoka to Tokyo in an attempt to flee her violent ex-boyfriend, Kurashima Takashi, but he soon discovers her whereabouts. In a moment of desperation, Mizuho murders Takashi, yet her act goes unnoticed, leading to questions such as "Who concealed the body?" and "What was their motive?"

Heart surgeon Kamura Yoichiro is determined to make a mark in history by revitalizing aging hearts. He is a determined professional who believes that a doctor gains experience after losing three patients, and he is committed to turning his research into practical treatments. However, there is an unforeseen side effect to his medical procedure - once the heart's function improves significantly, it is at risk of rupturing and causing sudden death. A government official named Sakuma Kazuhisa sees this side effect as a potential solution to the challenges of an aging society. Sakuma, known as the Ministry's Machiavelli, forms a plan to take control of the "dream cure" by manipulating Kamura. The first person to undergo this treatment is the renowned actor Kuraki Rentaro, who retired due to heart failure. Kuraki is desperate to make one last movie before he passes away, but he soon experiences the dangerous side effect. There is a hidden connection between Kuraki and Kamura - Kamura is actually Kuraki's illegitimate child, abandoned by him in childhood. Despite his resentment towards Kuraki, Kamura is compelled to save his father's life when the side effect emerges. Will Kamura prioritize saving his father over the risks of the treatment?

Kodera Masao, the head of Japan's largest newspaper, has made a decision to sell the publication to a foreign investor due to a decrease in readership and advertising revenue. The buyer, Aoi Sota, is the CEO of a major US online retailer named AMC. After Kodera's sudden passing, Shinzato Akira takes over and negotiations commence. Aoi, who has a background in journalism and a close relationship with Shinzato, presents challenging demands during the process. The true intentions behind Aoi's acquisition of the newspaper are questioned, raising concerns about potential changes to the established system that has long influenced Japan's media and politics.

Ueshima Michiko, a homemaker, is set to inherit the Japanese-style eatery Hanazumi located near Lake Hamana. Unexpectedly, Yahagi Tae arrives claiming to be Shunpei's lover and presents Michiko with divorce papers signed by her husband. Michiko suggests that Shunpei transfer ownership of the restaurant to her in exchange for the divorce. Unaware of the restaurant's financial struggles, Michiko agrees to the deal only to discover later that it is on the brink of bankruptcy. Following the divorce, Michiko finds herself in a business partnership with both Shunpei and Tae, embarking on a challenging journey filled with obstacles.

The series follows the story of the main character "Zegen" as he pursues vengeance following his wife's tragic death. Li Xue Lan arrives in Japan to seek employment to cover her husband's medical expenses back in China. With Zegen's help, she starts working at a massage parlor in Kawasaki. Worried about her situation due to her temporary visa, he suggests a fake marriage with an older man. Inspired by Jou Tomioka's novel.

Based on the book series "The Incredible Grandmother" by Mariko Hayashi.

Yao Shang Qian, a mysterious artist, gains sudden popularity after gallery owner Fang Zhi Hao and his wife stumble upon one of his old paintings. As his fame grows, Shang Qian finds himself making compromises with his principles, while his ex-lover Shen Yue returns looking to benefit from his success. However, tragedy strikes when Shang Qian's wife, Zhuang Rui Ting, is discovered murdered.

In order to support scientific research, graduate student Harry joins a stock group led by stock analyst Master Koo, also known as Magic Genie. Unfortunately, Harry falls victim to a scam and loses everything. He teams up with other scam victims, Simon Sir, Katty, and Hook, to seek compensation. Together, they form a money-making alliance called OPM and venture into financial speculation involving London Gold, market manipulation, public companies, IPOs, and more. Through their endeavors, they manage to earn a profit of HK$10 billion. Some individuals pursue money to achieve their dreams, while others seek financial freedom through financial games. However, many fall prey to scams disguised as financial management strategies. As the number of victims grows, Harry and his friends must stay true to their original intentions and turn the scam into something positive.

Childhood friends Zhong Zi Kiu and Cheung Sam Yue have taken divergent paths due to their fathers' criminal activities. After Yue's father was incarcerated, she changed her name and started a new life, keeping her past a secret and pursuing a career as an insurance investigator. They reunite after a long time when Yue's husband unexpectedly dies, leaving behind a suspiciously increased life insurance policy. Kiu suspects foul play, considering Yue's hidden past. Now, the question remains: what is the truth behind these events?

The story follows Takano, a short man who works as a professional locksmith, and a tall woman he meets in Bangkok named Eiko Kosaka. Despite being a foot taller than him, Takano falls for Eiko but keeps his feelings hidden due to his height insecurities. Their paths cross again in Tokyo, leading to the development of mutual feelings between them. The plot is adapted from the newspaper novel "Kimi wo Miagete" by Yamada Taichi.

In our society, there is a secret police force operating covertly in the urban landscape. Formed in the aftermath of the September 11 incidents, this specialized unit called "Ura" is dedicated to thwarting global terrorism and espionage. Sumimoto Kenji commands this group in a clandestine battle of intelligence, deceit, and treachery. (Tokyograph)

Gen is a former hitman who has chosen to lead a quiet life working at the secluded hot spring inn Tsubakiya in Japan. Eager for a fresh start, he applied for the job under the guise of a middle-aged office worker recently laid off. Keeping his dark past hidden from the inn's attractive owner and experienced clerk, as well as the other eclectic characters like a retired dancer named Tomoyo, a bar owner, and Q, the sole person aware of Gen's history. Amidst this unique group, Gen finds himself entangled in various dilemmas at Tsubakiya.

In the novel "Akumu no Drive" by Kinoshita Hanta, a retired professional boxer and a failed comedian join forces to establish a transportation company. Initially, they acquire a vehicle and employ it to outsmart their adversaries.

Kinami has been chosen to portray the role of Hita Nanase, a housemaid who possesses the supernatural gift of telepathy, enabling her to unveil the hidden truths within the households she serves. The character was formerly portrayed by Takigawa Yumi and Hori Chiemi.

Otome-san against Kowai! Otome-san refers to a mother-in-law, while Kowai, which translates to frightening in Japanese, represents the daughter-in-law. Mizusawa Asako endured constant criticism and nagging from her mother-in-law until the elderly woman passed away two years ago. Just as Asako began to relax and enjoy her role as the lady of the house, her son announced his plans to marry a girl named Ririka. Despite Asako and her husband, Hiroyuki, voicing their opposition, they were unable to change their son's mind. In an attempt to intimidate Ririka, Asako proposed that they would accept her as their daughter-in-law only if the couple agreed to move in with them. Surprisingly, Ririka agreed with a smile and they were married. Asako was determined to be a supportive mother-in-law, although she harbored some reservations. After a night of drinking together, Asako and Ririka bonded. The following morning, Asako woke up to find breakfast prepared and the house cleaned by Ririka, who appeared to be the ideal daughter-in-law. However, strange incidents began occurring in their neighborhood, causing Asako to become increasingly suspicious of Ririka.

Drawing inspiration from Hideo Aiba's novel "Chi no Wadachi."

Yayoi, a licensed nurse at Hoshimigaoka Hospital, harbors a hidden past that she keeps to herself. Abandoned by her parents at a young age, she grew up in foster care, cherishing the hospital as her home. Despite her loneliness, she remains kind-hearted, avoiding conflict and immersing herself in her work. When Todo joins as the new head nurse, Yayoi initially resists her strong-willed approach but eventually finds herself drawn to Todo's presence. With Todo's influence, Yayoi is able to let go of her past and embrace a new beginning on her own terms.

Natsuko Kotani seemed destined for deceit, while Tetsuko Ishida was a distant family member known for her integrity as a lawyer. Whenever Natsuko caused problems, Tetsuko was always called upon to resolve the situations. Feeling exploited by Natsuko, Tetsuko, who led a mundane life, started to undergo a transformation.

Set in 1955, a decade after the end of World War II, the story follows government officials at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) as they work towards making Japan as prosperous as the western world. The plot centers on Kazakoshi Shingo, also known as "Mr. Ministry of International Trade and Industry", and explores the conflict between the "industry supporters" advocating for the protection of national industry, and the "trade supporters" pushing for free trade to globalize the country. The drama received accolades at the 62nd Television Drama Academy Awards, with Sakai Masato winning Best Supporting Actor and Hirano Shunichi, Oka Susumu, and Matsuda Ayato winning Best Directors. (source: d-addicts)

After her adoptive mother, Atsuta Otomi, passed away, Endo Yuriko decides to return to her family home. She is not coming back out of concern for her father, Ryohei, who has been struggling since his wife's death. Yuriko has made the difficult decision to divorce her husband, Hiroyuki. However, upon her return, a young woman named Imoto Sachie appears at the house, claiming to have been sent by Otomi to assist with household chores until the 49th day. Sachie also reveals Otomi's wish for a celebratory feast rather than a traditional Buddhist memorial service on her 49th day. Initially hesitant, father and daughter eventually warm up to the idea after discovering a recipe left behind by Otomi.

Harashima Manji holds a typical position as a section chief at a small to medium-sized business that serves as a subcontractor for a prominent electronics company. Upon stumbling upon irregularities in a string of personnel shifts, he becomes entangled in a battle against a formidable adversary.

One day, Fujimaki Daisuke, a mundane middle-aged office worker at a trading company, is instructed to temporarily join the cheering squad at Asunaro University instead of facing a layoff. The company president's alma mater's cheering squad is at risk of disbandment. During a meeting with alumni, Fujimaki is appointed as the head of the cheering squad. He is thrust into this new role, learning the traditional customs such as always wearing the school uniform, saying "Ossu" in response, and following the seniors' instructions. Under the guidance of old boy Saito Yuichi, Fujimaki becomes captivated by the profound philosophy of providing support in a tangible way.

In Kabukicho, Tokyo, a hit-and-run incident takes place. Hamamoto Junpei, a bartender who witnessed the accident, discovers that the man arrested is not the same person he saw at the scene. It appears that the true culprit is internationally renowned cellist Minato Keiji, with his brother taking the blame. Seeking a quick profit, Junpei and Tomoki, a host he considers a younger brother, decide to extort Minato. However, Minato's manager Yuko intervenes, causing Junpei to back down in the face of her authority. On the flip side, Yuko becomes intrigued by Junpei's personality. Junpei is someone universally liked and impossible to despise. Soon, a formidable adversary of Yuko's appears unexpectedly. This chance encounter between individuals from different worlds draws in those around them: Minato; Mizuki, a hostess who followed Tomoki to Tokyo; Miki, the owner of the Korean club where Junpei is employed; Kosaka, Miki's former gangster boyfriend; and Tomoka, Minato's niece who is studying art at university. An upheaval that will reverberate throughout Japan is on the horizon.

Kanoko Saho loses her job at her father's company, Fawn, despite her dedication to the manufacturing industry. The dismissal appears to be influenced by a mysterious figure known as a "headhunter". Watari Kaori, who identifies as a headhunter, approaches Saho with an opportunity. Consequently, Saho joins the headhunting firm "Forteflows" alongside Watari. Saho now faces clients directly as a dark cloud looms over Fawn.

Kano Teppei, a medical sales representative, has been leading a simple life. However, his world is turned upside down when he discovers that his wife has been concealing a 4.8 billion yen (~45.7M USD) inheritance from her grandmother that she received 24 years ago. As Teppei navigates challenges at work, he reflects on their marriage. This story is inspired by Shiraishi Kazufumi's novel with the same title.

Shimura Eriko, a successful professional, is employed by a large trading company where she holds a position equal to that of her male colleagues. Despite her beauty and impressive education, Eriko's only major concern is her lack of female friends. She finds solace in reading a popular journal written by a housewife influencer her age on social media. One day, Eriko crosses paths with Maruo Shoko, the author of the diary, who also resides nearby and shares her struggle of not having female friends. Their commonality leads to a quick and close friendship, but a certain incident causes their relationship to take an unexpected turn. (Jdramas.wordpress.com)

Kikuchi Izumi is a 38-year-old editor and food writer who is employed at a small publishing house. She has not been in contact with her long-term partner for the past 5 months, ever since lending him 2 million yen. One day, out of the blue, she receives a phone call from an elderly woman who proceeds to berate her. To Izumi's surprise, the same woman ends up sharing a cab with her, and they are both headed to the same destination. Through their conversation, Izumi discovers that the woman is Nakajima Haruko, the esteemed owner of a renowned beauty clinic in Tokyo.

Set in the Nagahara branch of Tokyo Daiichi Bank, the narrative unfolds within a small branch catering to small, medium, and micro enterprises. The team comprises Masahiro Nishiki, a demoted assistant manager, a diligent employee supporting his family, a cunning branch manager, a performance-driven assistant manager willing to resort to harassment, and a skilled operations ace, each with their own distinct personalities and challenges. When one million yen mysteriously disappears from the branch, suspicions fall on a female employee, while Nishiki, tasked with investigating the incident, unexpectedly vanishes. As the two mysteries intertwine, the truth behind the cash loss and Nishiki's disappearance gradually come to light. Discover the shocking revelations behind the "fraud" and Nishiki's enigmatic absence in this captivating tale.

Five years have passed since the events of "Borderless," and Nao, Kiri, and Kotone have embarked on new paths in their lives

Kanako experiences amnesia following the passing of her mother. When she turns 19, she encounters a psychiatrist who has created a device known as "Virtual Reality 2000". This invention allows individuals to enter the thoughts and memories of others. The storyline is packed with suspense. (DramaWiki)