Asian dramas like
Kimi Wa Petto

29-year-old Iwaya Sumire is having a rough day, possibly the worst ever. She was recently dumped by her boyfriend of 5 years, just as she was expecting a marriage proposal. Adding to her troubles, she was demoted from the foreign correspondence department at the newspaper where she works after punching her boss for making inappropriate advances while drunk. On her way home, feeling emotional and intoxicated, Sumire recalls seeing a puppy available for adoption near her apartment building earlier that day. When she checks the box, she is surprised to find a young man inside instead of the puppy. This man, 20-year-old modern interpretive dancer Goda Takeshi, had taken refuge in the box after being attacked and is now slightly injured. Mistakenly thinking Takeshi is her childhood dog Momo, Sumire takes him home with her. Despite their unusual beginning, Sumire and Takeshi develop a unique and special relationship, with Sumire treating Takeshi like a pet dog and even giving him the name Momo. Their daily life together gradually evolves into something more profound.

A team of military physicians boards a medical ship destined for isolated islands, yet their reasons for joining are not entirely selfless. Among the group are Eun Jae, a meticulous surgeon facing a career obstacle; Kwak Hyun, an internal medicine physician who has volunteered for the mission; and Jae Geol, an oriental medicine practitioner who has been assigned to the vessel against his will. In their thirties and experienced in their fields, these doctors are grappling with personal challenges as they embark on a journey of self-exploration, learning to cultivate empathy as healers while pursuing more meaningful lives.

Hong Nan Hee is a typical employee at a publishing company

Shin Na Ra, a nearly thirty-year-old woman, eagerly awaits the return of her boyfriend, who has been away on a business trip for seven years. During their dinner together, he reveals that he has not only been unfaithful but has also developed feelings for another woman. Consequently, their relationship comes to an end. To cope with her heartbreak, Na Ra consumes a significant amount of alcohol and accidentally drops the ring her former boyfriend gifted her into the cup of a stranger. This stranger, In Jae, unknowingly consumes the drink containing the ring, leading both of them to end up in the hospital. To make ends meet, Na Ra pretends to be her 20-year-old sister to get a job as a cosmetic clerk at the store of Mi Rae, the woman her ex-boyfriend has fallen for. Coincidentally, In Jae also finds himself at the same shop. Thus begins their unexpected journey of romance, as In Jae is also infatuated with Mi Rae.

Jang Man Ok (with "Man Ok" translating to "full house" in Hanja) teaches martial arts at her grandfather's school. However, she has a passion for fashion and secretly operates an online shopping website without her grandfather's awareness. Eventually, she takes on the role of a stylist for the popular idol group TAKE ONE and relocates to the opulent residence that superstar musician Lee Tae Ik inherited from his father.

Hotaru is employed by a well-known company that specializes in interior design. While her work may be glamorous, her personal life is quite the opposite. Living by herself, Hotaru spends her free time lounging around her rented home in casual attire. She has no interest in romantic relationships or anything else for that matter, often preferring relaxation over any form of excitement. One day, her landlord's son, who is recently separated from his spouse, visits the property for inspection, unaware that it is already occupied. Both he and Hotaru are taken aback by the messy state of the home. To their surprise, the landlord's son is revealed to be none other than Hotaru's boss, Takano.

Yu Hye Chan, at 29 years old, is married to Kang Bong Man, a former high school classmate she once loathed but eventually grew to love. The narrative begins with her resolution to pursue a divorce; however, en route to the courthouse, she gets into a car accident. Upon regaining consciousness in the hospital, she discovers that her memory has been erased, leaving her unable to recall anything beyond the age of 18. Her husband attempts to aid her during this vulnerable time, and as she starts to heal, she finds herself developing feelings for him once more. Yet, as her physical recovery progresses, her memories begin to return, bringing back the reasons she had for wanting to leave. Will they manage to reconcile their differences, or is this the final chapter of their marriage?

During the 1990s, amidst China's integration into the global economy, Qiu Shui and his companions enroll in medical school with the goal of leaving their country rather than pursuing careers in medicine. The story follows a young student and his peers as they navigate through various activities such as drinking, engaging in romantic relationships, and playing video games, alongside military drills, academic assignments, and typical college pranks. "Beijing, Beijing" offers a humorous and perceptive portrayal of a society and an individual grappling with the clash between tradition and modernization. Over time, as relationships evolve and people move on, Qiu Shui faces the solitude and uncertainty that characterize his generation.

Hayame's content married life is suddenly disrupted, leaving her without money or a place to live. Just when things seem hopeless, she crosses paths with Issei, a wealthy high school student she had once embarrassed. Watch as these two very different worlds clash in an unexpected Cinderella-like tale! (MyAnimeList) Based on the manga "Tachibana Oreko."

Oh Ha Ni is an awkward high school girl who develops feelings for the meticulous Baek Seung Jo. Unfortunately, Seung Jo remains apathetic and spurns her affections. When Ha Ni's home is destroyed, she and her father relocate to the residence of his long-time friend. Coincidentally, Seung Jo is the eldest son of this friend, granting Ha Ni the chance to be close to the boy she adores. Will she succeed in winning over Seung Jo's heart?

At 30 years old, Kamata Rinko is a single scriptwriter who is facing challenges in her career. Her social life revolves around nights out with her friends Kaori and Koyuki, as they discuss hypothetical scenarios about finding love and getting married. Their conversations are interrupted by a younger, attractive man who remarks on their musings, prompting the trio to confront the reality of their age. Rinko, still immature in her 30s, grapples with the pursuit of happiness, romance, and professional success.

Karibe Seiichiro, a brilliant manga artist, struggles with social interactions and prefers to stay indoors due to his unique perspective. One day, he crosses paths with Kuon Aiko, his late brother's ex-girlfriend, and proposes that they become pretend romantic partners. This scenario is based on the manga "Renai Mangaka" by Yamazaki Sayaka.

Qi Yue finally mustered up the courage to reveal her feelings and approached Yuan Yi with her love letter. Unfortunately, he unknowingly walked past her, leaving her standing in front of the notorious troublemaker of the school, Jiang Meng. Despite his intimidating reputation, Jiang Meng's kind and caring heart deeply resonated with Qi Yue. The complication arose when Qi Yue realized that Jiang Meng is the son of her mother's future husband.

Na Bo Ri is a 25-year-old woman who is eager to become a teacher at the high school from which she was expelled due to a misunderstanding involving her injuring a group of male classmates

The drama takes place behind the scenes of the broadcasting sector. It centers on the vibrant lives and careers of individuals working within the entertainment division of a television network. Ra Jun Mo, a seasoned producer with a decade of experience in variety shows, is noted for his extensive list of credits yet lacks a standout program to claim as his own. Tak Ye Jin, a music show producer also with ten years of experience, began her journey as an innocent and intelligent newcomer, but the cutthroat competition has transformed her into a sharp-tongued and proud woman, unafraid to speak her mind even in front of superiors. Baek Sung Chan, a rookie producer in the variety show arena, abandons a promising future as a prosecutor to pursue a career in broadcasting out of love. Cindy, a top celebrity singer with a diva-like demeanor, started her journey as a trainee at the age of 13 and has spent a decade in the industry. She is often referred to as the "ice princess" due to her reluctance to form deep connections, a result of past betrayals that have led her to keep others at a distance. The narrative conveys profound themes surrounding friendship, family, fame, support, bullying, and betrayal within the broadcasting world.

Miko, a 20-year-old woman, is innocent but prone to errors. After her composer father passed away, she resided in an orphanage with her twin brother Mio Sakuraba. Currently, she resides in a convent with aspirations of becoming a nun. However, her plans take a turn when a mysterious man named Mabuchi invites her to join the renowned band A*N*Jell in place of her brother who is overseas. As she agrees to this unexpected opportunity, a complex web of relationships, including a love triangle, begins to unfold involving various individuals.

Shin Joo Yeon, a 33-year-old fashion marketing director at a home shopping network, has cultivated a tough and resilient exterior to navigate her professional environment. After numerous disappointments in her romantic life, she has nearly lost hope in finding true love. On the other hand, Joo Wan, a 26-year-old songwriter with a laid-back attitude, has returned to Korea after spending seventeen years abroad. Until he was nine, he was largely cared for by his mother’s friend and her daughter, Shin Joo Yeon. While she remembers him only as the child she had to entertain when her mother was preoccupied, Joo Wan’s fondest early memories—ranging from bath time to playful moments and learning to tie his shoes—are filled with her presence. Upon reuniting, he seeks to mend Joo Yeon’s disillusioned view of romance.

Katagiri Sayo, an office worker at a prominent IT firm, is a firm believer in the idea that hard work will lead to success. Morimoto Miharu, a nurse, is beginning to lose hope in her long-standing relationship with her boyfriend Ryota. Yamashita Miwa, an office worker at a bank, struggles with low self-esteem and is quick to give herself up when asked. On the other hand, Matsuoka Akane, a confident company secretary with a mysterious past, exudes beauty that turns heads wherever she goes. These four women embark on a journey to find their life partners in pursuit of happiness. The government's covert organization, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, known for its matchmaking support, springs into action. Will these women, each with their own unique perspectives on marriage, find the encounters that will change their lives forever?

Song Xiao Lei is a man who is currently without a job, but he values honesty and holds onto his ideals. Following a difficult breakup, he decides to move in with three attractive women: Bai Jing Jing, a sharp-witted fashion enthusiast, Li Mei Dai, a sheltered girl who ran away from home, and Hu Li Li. Li Li, who witnessed her parents' tumultuous relationship that ended in her mother's tragic death, is now wary and skeptical when it comes to love. This story is inspired by the web novel "One Man and Three Women Renting Together" by Song Xiao Jun.

Sol Ah, a graphic designer in her twenties, aspires to be a webcomic creator and has a complicated affection for cats

Upon completing her studies in finance at university, Chu Li secures a position at Yuan Yue Publishing House, her long-awaited dream company. However, she faces obstacles as she realizes the publishing industry has undergone significant changes. It is there that she crosses paths with author Zhou Chuan, who is rumored to be kind but proves otherwise. Their initial encounter leads to discord, but Zhou Chuan eventually discovers that Chu Li is actually his online friend, Monkey.

This comedic story follows the mayhem, challenges, and camaraderie at a boys' boarding school when a girl disguises herself as a boy and enrolls. Ashiya Mizuki returns to Japan from California, where she grew up, and falls for Sano Izumi, a former high jump star who has given up on the sport. Determined to see him return to his passion, she decides to attend the same high school in disguise! Sporting a new haircut, a flattened chest, and a deeper voice, she moves into Sano's room.

Hoshino Mamoru, also known as the "Gentleman Bachelor," is the talented and skilled CEO of a film production company established by his father. His younger sibling, Hoshino Sumoru, known as the "Separation Strategist," is a shrewd negotiator navigating a divorce while managing a hectic dating life. Haruno Yuki, referred to as the "Matrimonial Wanderer," once aspired to be a scriptwriter but now works part-time as a homemaker, disenchanted with romance and matrimony. As their paths converge, unforeseen events start to reshape their destinies.

In "Happy Negative Marriage," the protagonist is Keitaro Sato, a socially awkward 30-year-old factory worker who has never been in a serious relationship. When his parents set up an Omiai meeting with Shimako Akio, a strikingly beautiful woman who appears to be out of his league, Keitaro is taken aback. Despite their differences, Keitaro falls for Shimako instantly, and she seems open to the idea of marrying him. However, there may be a hidden secret that could jeopardize their relationship. Directed by Kenji Yokoi, this 2014 Japanese film is based on a manga by Ryuta Amazume.

Remi Takasugi is highly sought after as a rental girlfriend at Rental Lovers, a company that offers girlfriend rental services. Clients easily develop feelings for Remi due to her ability to cater to their preferences and embody the perfect girlfriend persona. Despite her exceptional performance, Remi never displays genuine happiness once her job is done. Adding to the mystery, she is always seen wearing a peculiar bandage around her neck. Remi's next client is Kosuke Yamada, a university student who is deeply infatuated with her.

The plot centers around Miyamoto, a fresh-faced businessman employed at a company that sells office supplies. Despite feeling frustrated by his perceived lack of importance, he continues to strive forward. This information is sourced from ANN and is based on the manga series "Miyamoto kara Kimi e" created by Hideki Arai.

The tale starts with a husband and his daughter, who have been grieving the loss of their wife and mother for a decade, being reunited with her in an unexpected way. The wife is reincarnated as a 10-year-old elementary school student, leading to the family being reunited and finding new hope. This story is adapted from the manga series "Tsuma, Shougakusei ni naru" by Murata Yayuu.

Yamaguchi Chikako, aged 30, desires love and marriage but struggles to find a suitable partner due to her age. Her younger brother Taku, 22, spends time with his friend Kengo and his girlfriend Asami. Kengo harbors feelings for Chikako, although she rejects him due to their age difference. Hanae, Chikako and Taku's mother, seeks love elsewhere as her husband Mitsuru fails to provide it. As Chikako and Taku become independent, Hanae feels lonely and unattractive. The story unfolds when Chikako meets Izaki Shun, a 43-year-old advertising executive, at the gym and immediately falls for him. Despite her proposal, Shun declines, leading to an unexpected encounter with Hanae at a bento shop. Intrigued by Hanae, Shun invites her to dinner, sparking a secret affair. Unbeknownst to each other, Chikako and Hanae are both involved with Shun, highlighting the complexities within the family. "Toshishita no Otoko" delves into the lives of older women searching for fulfillment and the family dynamics riddled with hidden truths. As secrets unravel, the narrative unfolds like the saying goes: "When it rains, it pours."

In an effort to persuade an old acquaintance to stop bothering her, Kim Yeon Do posts a picture of an unfamiliar guy, asserting that he is her boyfriend. Unbeknownst to her, the image she selected features the rebellious student Ji Hyun Ho. As she spends more time with him to rectify the situation, she discovers that individuals have much deeper layers than she initially perceives.

Miura is set to portray the intricate character of Shio's ex-husband's younger brother, Gai, who harbors feelings for his former sister-in-law. Yada stars as Shio, a seemingly content and accomplished owner of an aroma aesthetics salon. However, Shio battles insomnia as a result of her unfaithful ex-husband. To assist women in similar situations, she initiates a "co-sleeping" service with four attractive young men.

Dream High narrates the journey of six students at Kirin Art High School as they strive to fulfill their aspirations of becoming stars in the Korean music scene. Go Hye Mi, a classical music major, is forced to abandon her dream when she enrolls at Kirin Art High School to help settle her father's debts. To gain conditional admission, she must recruit two other students to join her at the school. These students are Song Sam Dong, a country boy, and Jin Guk, whom she encounters by chance while trying to escape from a loan shark. Yoon Baek Hee, once Hye Mi’s loyal friend, turns into her competitor at school after Hye Mi betrays her during an audition for admission.

Asada Minami, a nurse, along with Hiruma Toko and Nishino Yu, who works at a bookstore, all find themselves enchanted by Kita-kun, whose full name is Manaka Kita. He possesses an enigmatic allure that draws in admirers of all ages and genders. To minimize competition among themselves, they establish the "33% Club," allowing them to equally share their affection for Kita-kun. This romantic comedy revolves around the three of them cohabiting with him.

So Hye, a passionate screenwriter, discovers that she has breast cancer just as she begins crafting a drama centered around the illness, with a prognosis of only five months to live. She resolves to seize the moment, pursue her dreams, and settle unresolved matters. However, her life takes an unforeseen turn when Hae Sung, a renowned actor and her first love, reenters her life. Although they initially clash, a romantic bond begins to form between them. Meanwhile, Joon Ki, her doctor and friend, also competes for her heart, showing empathy for her internal battles. As So Hye grapples with a challenging choice between the two, time is slipping away. How can she ensure she departs without any regrets?

In the vibrant city of Seoul, three generations of witches have quietly gone about their lives. Kang Cho Hong operates a restaurant alongside fellow witches Maeng Ye Soon and Jo Aeng Doo. Although they strive to remain under the radar, Cho Hong's youthful looks catch the eye of Hwang Jae Wook. Their peaceful existence is further disturbed by the return of their landlord, Ma Sung Tae, who seeks resolution for a childhood trauma linked to their building. As Sung Tae continues to investigate, can Cho Hong safeguard her true identity from him?

Kim Sam Sun is a skilled baker known for her exquisite pastries and cakes. On Christmas Eve, she discovers that her boyfriend, Min Hyeon U, has been unfaithful, leading her to end their relationship. That very night, she encounters Hyun Jin Heon, who owns a restaurant named Bon Appetit. By a twist of fate, Jin Heon is in need of a baker, and Sam Sun finds herself without a job. She is appointed as the head baker at the restaurant, resulting in a tumultuous relationship filled with constant bickering between the two.

Tajimage Shu meets Bessho Fumiyo, a former high school senior, by chance. Fumiyo is a popular guy who has to end his relationships for certain reasons. Upon hearing his story, Fumiyo accidentally mentions that the situation is similar to Dazai Osamu's incomplete novel "Goodbye". Tajimage is touched by this strange coincidence.

Created by Yu Zheng and penned by screenwriter Zhang Wei, this series serves as the companion piece to the well-received Female Prime Minister. It follows the journey of Ban Shu, the niece of the first female prime minister Ban Zhao. Ban Shu rises through the ranks to become a teacher at the Royal Female Academy established by Empress Deng Wei. However, facing increasing challenges due to court intrigues, she ultimately chooses to depart from the court in order to promote Han culture.

After twelve years since his fatal car accident, Sung Hae Sung miraculously reappears, looking exactly the same as he did before, without having aged at all. With the support of his friends and his first love, Jong Won, Hae Sung embarks on a journey to rectify the situation for his family and uncover the enigmas surrounding both his death and his return to life.

Nam Ha Jin is a compassionate plastic surgeon who has been in a loving relationship with Yeo Reum for three years. However, their lives take a turn when her former boyfriend, Kang Tae Ha, unexpectedly shows up and pleads for her forgiveness.

Two men, one significantly younger and the other the same age, suddenly appeared in the lives of our heroines who had sworn off love. Whether it be a colleague, a spouse, a friend, or a brief fling, the dynamics of their relationships were complicated by age and status differences. Unable to be completely honest, they found themselves struggling to express their true feelings. The uncertainty surrounding their emotions left them wondering if any of these men could potentially fill the void in their hearts. (MyAnimeList)

"We've reached the age of thirty." Reaching thirty is a stage where we may think we are ready for what life has in store, even if we haven't completely figured out everything about life, love, or ourselves. As we navigate through this false sense of preparedness, we encounter new people, build relationships, go through different emotions, gain wisdom about life, and eventually transition into adulthood. Through the character Seo Eun, the drama explores how we reflect on ourselves, overcome unexpected challenges, and evolve through our interactions with others. The show showcases visually engaging scenes and thought-provoking storytelling. (HanCinema)

Oh Pil Seung is an easygoing, albeit somewhat indolent, average guy who unexpectedly becomes the successor to a prestigious logistics firm! With competitors and naysayers eager for him to make a mistake, can Pil Seung meet the challenge head-on? Or will the elitist attitudes of the corporate world push this working-class individual aside? (DW)

Career-driven woman Takanashi Asuka has a traditional aspiration of getting married and being a homemaker. When her longtime boyfriend ends their relationship to focus on his career, she crosses paths with Nanami Ryu, a well-known news anchor at PTV. Asuka and Ryu hit it off, despite his aversion to marriage. Their conflicting desires in life make a romantic relationship seem unlikely, especially since Nanami believes marriage restricts personal freedom and serves as a mere escape for women. "I have no interest in getting married," he declared. Despite their differing views on marriage, Asuka views Nanami as an ideal partner. Thus, the 'Battle of Values' commences.

Yamaguchi Narumi is flourishing in her life as a single woman—until the unexpected and solitary death of her respected aunt, a successful career woman, profoundly unsettles her. In a state of anxiety, she plunges into matchmaking, but her efforts lead to failure. When her younger coworker Nasuda Yuya candidly remarks, "Believing that marriage offers security? That’s so old-fashioned!" Narumi undergoes a significant transformation—from konkatsu (marriage searching) to shukatsu (preparing for end-of-life). This is the unfiltered, emotional journey of a woman in her late 30s grappling with societal expectations, personal insecurities, and moments of profound appreciation—all aimed at achieving a single, vital objective: to live well in order to die well.

Wang Ming Ming, a screenwriter, is currently working on a romantic drama. Upon a suggestion, she decides to cast a struggling actor named Yi Shen as the main male character. Yi Shen, aware that he is using Ming Ming to secure his role, begins to develop feelings for her as they spend more time together. To distract himself, he starts pursuing the female lead, Shen Pei Ni. Eventually, Yi Shen becomes successful and no longer relies on Ming Ming. However, before he could address the situation, Ming Ming discovers his true intentions and ends their relationship. Through this complex journey, Ming Ming gains self-assurance and ultimately finds happiness.

The kiss that day changed everything. This narrative starts with an unexpected kiss that reveals the sentiments of four men and women saying their goodbyes. It unfolds as a complex, bittersweet romantic fantasy involving four individuals who unite to discover true love. This series acts as a continuation of Moment, the flagship digital drama series from Studio Lululala. The feelings that men and women typically experience during dates are portrayed in an innovative manner with engaging characters. One couple has grown weary of one another, while another pair has separated after causing each other pain. Four distinct young adults come together to navigate the intricate challenges of their romantic entanglements. One couple aspires to embark on a new love journey, while the other envisions a flawless farewell. Will they achieve the conclusions they desire? (JTBC)

Hong Yeo Joo is the author of a well-known online novel centered around a gumiho

This drama follows the journey of 34-year-old Lee So Young, who possesses a youthful appearance, as she strives to become a fashion designer while facing challenges such as her limited education with only a high school diploma and a poor credit score. Choi Jin Wook, the heir to a well-known Jokbal restaurant that generates millions in revenue each year, chooses to defy his father and move out of his parents' home. He begins working at a different company to pursue his aspirations. Reluctantly, Choi Jin Wook takes on a role in the fashion department. With his charming personality, he manages to navigate his new environment and eventually crosses paths with Lee So Young.

Hwang Ji An is an accomplished footwear designer whose existence is centered around her profession. She is highly protective of her creations, even as they are frequently replicated, inundating the market with inexpensive imitations. Park Tae Kang is a gifted young designer, yet he often appropriates Ji An's concepts for quick profit. After a particularly challenging day for both, they find themselves sharing drinks, which leads to a brief romantic encounter. They vow to avoid each other in the future, but their situation becomes more complex when her company brings Tae Kang on board as a new hire, and Ji An realizes she is expecting his child!