Asian dramas like
Kougen E Irasshai 2003

Due to a past incident, Ogata Kouhei steps down from his role and leaves the country in disgrace. As the hotel celebrates its 30th anniversary, a crisis emerges with the president hospitalized and a potential takeover looming. Assistant manager Odagiri Kyoko is sent to Korea to persuade Kouhei to return. During her trip, Kyoko encounters trouble when her purse is stolen and receives help from Mizusawa Keigo. Despite her efforts, Kyoko returns to Japan without success. With guidance from Korean hotel manager Shin Dong Hyuk, Kouhei agrees to come back as the new general manager of Tokyo Ocean Hotel. Upon his return, Kyoko crosses paths with Mizusawa Keigo once more. Unbeknownst to Kyoko, Keigo not only has plans to take over the hotel but also harbors feelings for her.

In November 1997, Yamaichi Securities, one of Japan's major brokerage firms, made the decision to shut down voluntarily. The company's leadership was unaware of around 260 billion yen in undisclosed debt until shortly before the closure. This hidden debt was in violation of regulations. Due to its size and lack of financial stability and support from banks, the Finance Ministry decided that instead of filing for bankruptcy, Yamaichi Securities should opt for a voluntary shutdown. Employees from certain departments, known as "outliers" within the company, remained dedicated to uncovering the truth and repaying customers even as the company faced collapse. These individuals were considered the last line of defense for the troubled brokerage.

Yamashita Kanta unexpectedly loses his job at a gaming company, leading to tension with his wife Saori, who works at the Labour Standards Supervision Office and can be intimidating when upset. In response, Kanta decides to venture into the popular trend of starting a bed and breakfast business. However, the new venture encounters numerous challenges initially. To make matters worse, Kanta's layoff is revealed at a particularly difficult moment, putting his marriage at risk. The question remains: will the bed and breakfast succeed?

Tozai Teito EFG Bank was established as a large financial institution through the amalgamation of Tozai Bank, EFG Bank, and Teito Bank under the supervision of the Financial Services Agency. Following the merger, former members of Teito Bank have assumed leadership roles, maintaining a hierarchical structure within the organization. Despite not originating from Teito Bank, Katsura Mitsuyoshi, a skilled trader, has risen to the position of Managing Director of the forex department due to his expertise. Conversely, Nihei Shohei, hailing from the general affairs department of Meikyo Bank (the predecessor of EFG Bank), strives diligently in his role, refusing to succumb to the established hierarchy. Unexpectedly, Tozai Teito EFG Bank faces a crisis of bankruptcy after engaging in clandestine discussions with government officials and experiencing a sharp decline in Japanese government bonds. Collaborating with Nihei, Katsura battles against foreign investors seeking to acquire the bank and conniving bureaucrats to ensure the company's survival. The outcome of their efforts remains uncertain.

Employed at a financial institution, Tetsuo Kashimura leads a comfortable life. However, his situation takes a turn for the worse when his bank merges with another one, leading to challenges at work. Witnessing his colleagues resign, Tetsuo decides to follow suit and leave his job. In his search for new opportunities, he crosses paths with Tomoya Yamamoto, the head of an investment firm, who discusses the possibility of reviving a chain of restaurants.

Taking place during a time of fierce competition in the hotel industry, the story portrays the downfall and struggles faced by Hotel Platon. (Wowow in Japan)

In Headhunter, the narrative explores the shifting landscape of job security, moving away from the concept of lifelong employment. The film delves into the contemporary labor market, following Kurosawa (played by Eguchi Yosuke) as he navigates the world of talent scouting in the headhunting industry.

Set in the late 1990s and early 2000s, this business drama unfolds during a time when the Japanese economy faced a downturn post the bubble burst. Traditional Japanese companies were now vulnerable to takeovers by foreign investors. Masahiko Washizu, a former Japanese bank employee turned New York-trained fund manager, returns to Tokyo with a mission to acquire Japanese businesses. Over the span of eight years, the story follows the journey of this relentless businessman, known as the "vulture," as well as the ambitions, challenges, and dreams of those involved in corporate acquisitions.

Detective Mizunuma, along with his younger sister Rie who works at a document office, and psychiatrist Kamijo who manages a psychiatric clinic, collaborate to carry out a fraudulent scheme in order to repay their individual debts of 200 million yen each. Their first target is Inokuma Real Estate, a company that has profited from Social Security Agency regulations. Upon discovering that the company owns unsold land in Atami, the trio devises a plan to create a fictitious Elderly Housing with Care business to deceive Inokuma Real Estate into selling them the land.

Apoyan is a story based on a novel by Shinno Takeshi that focuses on the individuals involved in international travel, including travel agents and airport staff. Endo Keita, an employee at JALPAK, was responsible for overseeing overseas package projects at the Head Office. However, he was unexpectedly reassigned to Narita Airport, where underperforming employees were typically sent to work at the counters assisting travelers. Feeling undervalued and unproductive, Endo contemplated leaving the company as his passion for creating tour packages seemed unappreciated. Despite initial reservations, Endo gradually finds purpose in his new role at Narita Airport, thanks to the support of his colleague Baba Hanae and by assisting customers with their travel concerns before departure.

Due to the impact of a robust yen, the worldwide financial downturn, and the competitive challenge posed by emerging economies, the Japanese manufacturing sector finds itself in a delicate position. A major electronics manufacturer is teetering on the edge of insolvency, with only a 3-month financial buffer remaining. In a covert initiative, three employees from the company - representing sales, finance, and production departments - collaborate to establish a reconstruction team and diligently strive to rejuvenate the company.

Ryo Ichinose is employed as a sales representative at a branch of Hashiba Electronics, a medium-sized electronics manufacturer known for its extensive history. Unexpectedly, he is instructed to relocate to the main office. Despite his lack of standout qualities, the newly appointed company president, Matsumoto, recognizes Ichinose's persistence as a salesperson and assigns him to a five-person team tasked with devising strategies to enhance Hashiba Group's management. Together, Ichinose and his colleagues travel to Vietnam to explore opportunities for reducing costs. During their time in Vietnam, Ichinose uncovers a bribery scheme linked to the contract work between the main office and the subsidiary, stemming from a new business initiative known as a licensing program, which has greatly impacted Hashiba Group. Determined to bring about change and align the company with ethical practices, Ichinose is committed to realizing not only his own aspirations but also those of his fellow team members.

Tatsuya Ikegami is employed by a real estate firm and is involved in a multi-billion yen urban development endeavor in the city of Sachio. In order to acquire the required land, Tatsuya must identify the landowners. To accomplish this, he conceals his true identity and becomes a member of the Sachio volunteer fire department. Here, he encounters fellow volunteer firefighters such as Sakura Azumi and Atsushi Goda. Initially, Tatsuya, who prioritizes results, struggles to connect with them, but eventually undergoes a change. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Tatsuya and his colleagues at the real estate company, who are advocating for an alternative project site, escalates.

If you find yourself in need of assistance and have no one to turn to, consider making a phone call as your first step. Akenabe Yugo works as a "rental saviour," someone who is able to fulfill nearly impossible requests for a limited time period. This unique rental service has emerged as a response to changes in the industry. However, Akenabe is simply a kind-hearted middle-aged man who has taken on this role as a way to earn extra money due to his significant debts, as well as to support his wife and child. In contrast, Aoi Denjiro, another rental saviour alongside Akenabe, is more of a show-off who enjoys being in the spotlight.

Fujimura Teppei, a member of the Shibuya Gyaruo group, started a business while still a student. After being inspired by a book written by venture company CEO Sawabe Susumu, he decided to join the company. Despite entering with high hopes, he found himself primarily involved in PR activities and mundane tasks. In an effort to change his situation, Teppei, along with his colleague Hidaka Takumi and intern Sasakawa Shota, entered an internal contest proposing a new influencer business venture. Their idea caught the attention of Sawabe, but they had to collaborate with senior colleague Yamano Taiichiro, who coincidentally had a similar proposal.

In a period of economic instability in Japan, Masahiko Washizu heads a foreign investment firm and faces backlash for his aggressive investment strategies. He endeavors to acquire a struggling bank and another company during their financial downturn.

Shibano Takeo is known for his expertise in corporate restructuring. After the unexpected passing of his mentor, the renowned inventor Fujimura Tokio, Shibano transitions from a large electronics company to a struggling metal molding factory named Majitech. Facing the threat of bankruptcy, he is tasked with revitalizing the business. Despite feeling inadequate compared to Fujimura's daughter Asako, Shibano works alongside her younger brother Nozomu, Fujimura's trusted associate Okemoto, and other employees to rescue the factory. Meanwhile, a disgruntled Murao, with a history with Shibano, and an international investment firm called Horizon, make attempts to gain control of Majitech for their own motives.

Kotaro Tanimura, aged 22, demonstrated his intelligence by completing his MBA at the University of Cambridge in England ahead of schedule. Upon his return to Japan, he secured a position at a toy company, where his ambitious and enthusiastic nature shines through. Despite encountering challenges with difficult colleagues, Tanimura strives to handle them peacefully, as inspired by the self-help book "Atama ni Kitemo Aho towaTatakauna" authored by Kotaro Tamura.

After being taken over by the government three years ago, Ozora Bank continues to struggle without showing any signs of improvement. Nozaki Shuhei, who had revealed the bank's illicit activities while working as an auditor, is appointed as the president in an unorthodox manner. His extensive experience in corporate restructuring with the Industrial Revitalization Corporation of Japan led to his selection for the role due to his innovative approach.

The dynamic pair of Nagase Saichi, known for his honesty, and Tsukishita Sakura, who prioritizes customer satisfaction, return for the second season

"Case Cell Division" is a unique drama that explores the different aspirations of individuals trapped in a fabricated reality influenced by social media, and the resulting discord and damage

In a tale of financial warfare in Hong Kong, a group of specialists is at the center of the action. Ye Bao and Wei Hang share a mentorship bond and share the vision of establishing CASH1.0 to protect the financial markets' honesty. But a conflict arises between them, leading to a decade-long rivalry. The introduction of CASH 2.0 marks the beginning of a ruthless trading competition driven by greed, ambition, and revenge. (ChineseDrama.info)

The tale of a lady who arrived in Tokyo and donned undergarments.

In Hong Kong, Lam Mei Lan is determined to keep her grandfather's noodle shop despite redevelopment plans in the area. She crosses paths with Tao Tetsuya, a visitor from Tokyo tasked with caring for a friend's cats in the neighboring apartment. Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the secret to the perfect fish ball noodle soup. This collaboration between TVB and NHK was broadcasted in Hong Kong on TVB on September 6 and 13, 2008, and later on ATV on November 2, 2008.

In the drama "Tenshi no Wakemae," Arisa Mizuki portrays Kurumi, a 35-year-old woman who faces a sudden loss of everything in her life when her fiance absconds with all her belongings. With only 15,000 yen and some boxes of ohagi, a type of rice ball, Kurumi encounters a construction site where she decides to share the ohagi with the workers. Through the theme of food, the series follows Kurumi's transformation as she rebuilds her life.

Murakami Shinsuke is an expert in corporate consulting specializing in personnel restructuring. He strategically guides employees towards voluntary retirement through one-on-one interviews. The storyline revolves around workers who are compelled to reflect on the significance of their jobs in the midst of impending layoffs. -- NHK

Satoshi Saigyouji, a renowned figure in crisis management known as "The God of Risk," has a background working for General Electric in the USA and the Japanese government. Sunrise, a prominent general trading company, seeks his expertise to address various challenges and scandals. On the other hand, Kaori Kagari, a Tokyo University graduate fluent in multiple foreign languages, is a seasoned businesswoman at Sunrise for a decade. Despite her willingness to stir up trouble, she is appointed as an executive for product development at a newly established company formed by Sunrise and a major electrical manufacturer to innovate a next-generation battery. Although initially successful, a crisis emerges when a faulty ignition system prompts a recall. Kaori Kagari and Satoshi Saigyouji are now tasked to collaborate and navigate through this challenging situation.

Sugiyama was once the top copywriter at a major advertising firm before leaving to start his own agency. Despite facing challenges, his new company in a struggling port town attracts clients with modest requests. This marks the beginning of Sugiyama's journey as a small advertising agency, as depicted in the novel "Hana no Sakura Doori" from the "Unibasaru Koukokusha Series" by Ogiwara Hiroshi.

Nozaki Shuhei holds the position of branch manager at Oozora Bank. Despite being well-liked for his fairness and compassion, he hasn't achieved much success in his career. When the branch he works at shuts down, Nozaki Shuhei is promoted to the role of auditor. In this new position, he uncovers corruption within the bank and is determined to bring about change. However, he faces resistance from the company's top executives, including CEO Kyogoku Masahiko, and his colleagues Takeda Shingo and Tachikawa Sachiko.

Hong Hara is an enthusiastic and vibrant young woman who approaches life with a cheerful perspective. She is kind-hearted and holds onto the belief that every romantic encounter she experiences is destined to last indefinitely. Currently, she is involved with No Cheol, a captivating man who seems to charm everyone around him, even if he lacks maturity at times. No Cheol is also the former partner of Do Ra Hee, a woman who has dedicated the past decade to the fashion industry. After being in a relationship with No Cheol for six years, Do Ra Hee has grown weary of men and is now focused on increasing her wealth. Unexpectedly, Hong Hara finds herself living and working alongside Do Ra Hee. The two decide to start their own online retail venture. As they face difficulties making ends meet in Korea's bustling fashion hub, Dongdaemun, they discover the opportunities that online shopping platforms offer. Nevertheless, the market is saturated with competitors, and the business partners quickly realize the hurdles involved in managing a small enterprise.

Taeko is employed at a financial institution that is affiliated with a foreign country. She is tasked with reviving a small company that has recently been acquired. Taeko faces challenges from the employees of the company, who are focused on advancing geothermal power as a potential energy solution. Initially seeing her new role as a step down, Taeko commits herself to turning the small company into a successful venture. This story is adapted from Jin Mayama's novel "Maguma."

Aspiring musician Mizuno Gota faces a dilemma when the convenience store where he is employed part-time unexpectedly shuts down. One day, he stumbles upon a newly-opened burger joint named Yankee Burger. Upon entering, Mizuno is approached by the owner Ozeki Katsuya, who requests his opinion on the burger's flavor. Mizuno critiques the lack of flavor in the burger, and to his surprise, he is offered a full-time position at the establishment. With hopes of easing his mother's worries and eventually fulfilling his dream of owning a Ferrari, Mizuno decides to take the entrance exam to join the burger shop as a full-time employee.

A luxury hotel faced competition from a rival named Li Rong Hao, prompting the president to bring back Lin Chong Guang for assistance. Despite leaving three years ago due to false rumors, Lin Chong Guang returns to boost the hotel's success. Li Rong Hao once again tries to take control of the hotel by hiring an expert in hotel acquisitions, Wen Ze Kai. As time passes, Wen Ze Kai undermines Lin Chong Guang by taking away his girlfriend, Tong Xin. The hotel becomes a battleground testing the boundaries between greed and morality.

The secondary branch of the main office "Sasima Construction" represents a medium-sized construction firm. It vividly portrays the dynamics between the main character known as "hyper OL mask" and those around her.

Tsukuda Kohei used to lead the development of a space rocket but left the Space and Astronautical Science Agency due to the rocket launch failure. He now manages Tsukuda Manufacturing, a small factory in the historic downtown area. On the other hand, Teikoku Heavy Industries unveiled plans for a homegrown rocket launch during a press event. However, the project hit a snag when Zaizen Michio, the Aerospace Division's chief, discovered that the patent for the crucial engine component technology had already been filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing. In a desperate attempt to secure the patent, Zaizen offered Tsukuda 2 billion yen. But...

Tomishima Heita has been employed by a construction firm for three years, initially working on construction sites before being moved to the sales department. He becomes entangled in bid-rigging schemes within the company and learns that his father's death was linked to similar illegal activities. Now faced with the decision of either exposing the wrongdoing as a whistleblower or shielding the company he is employed by.

In a run-down shopping district, Shinoda Mariko stars as the owner of a clothing store with a unique talent for instantly knowing a customer's clothing size. The narrative will revolve around her interactions with various patrons. (Credit: JapanBullet)

A collection of dramatic stories filled with both humor and sadness unfolds within the walls of a romantic hotel. Directed by a skilled team and featuring a large ensemble cast, this series explores a variety of emotions within the intimate setting of a closed room.

Yoneoka and Fujiiwa collaborate on editing a novel in the tranquil office of the proofreading department while Etsuko is on her yearly break. The storyline of the novel starts to play out vividly in their minds, leading to continuous critique from the two proofreaders as the dramatic scenes unfold.

Isoyama Takeshi, a temporary worker at a company, receives news from his employer that he will remain on a fixed-term contract with no possibility of becoming a permanent staff member. At home, his wife Seiko and 12-year-old daughter Nanami often criticize him. Adding to his troubles, a real estate investment he made secretly ends up with unexpected consequences, leaving him struggling to keep up with mounting interest payments. Encountering a mysterious elderly woman, he hatches a plan to vanish for 7 years in order to be legally declared dead and start anew.

Arimoto Hikari, a 32-year-old woman who is married with a son, visits her father Taizo after he collapses from overworking. The doctor informs Hikari that her father only has 4 days to live. Despite her initial resistance, Hikari decides to take over her father's company as he had originally intended for her. However, she encounters challenges such as her husband traveling to America for work and facing opposition from some employees like Katsumata and Junzo. This story is inspired by Suwa Takako's novel "Machi Koba no Musume."

Yoshitaka Niimi is employed in the editorial division of a prominent publishing firm and is known for his proficiency in his role. He receives an assignment from Chief Editor Ryuhei Kashiwazaki to join the team at the fashion magazine Pipin. Upon starting his first day at Pipin, he is taken aback by the unique atmosphere. The female employees exhibit unconventional behavior, and he is surprised by the striking presence of the fashion models.

A series of discussions focused on financial matters. In light of the emergence of negative interest rates, it is essential to strategize on how to grow your savings. Endlessly saving money is not a sustainable solution, especially with uncertainties around retirement funds and job security. In this challenging environment, everyone faces their unique financial circumstances. The narrative revolves around three youths grappling with personal financial challenges hindering their saving efforts.

A collection of dramatic stories filled with both joy and sorrow unfolds within the walls of a romantic hotel

Komukai Riko embarks on the "Dream Crazy" project with her university peers Shinji and Asai. She presents her service idea to Inuzuka from the startup support program "Dog Run", but faces a setback when her proposal receives a critical evaluation. Additionally, she questions the term "mass production type" used by Nakano Kyoko, a member of Dog Run. Riko is encouraged to explore new ideas and stumbles upon a model shop while taking a different route than usual. With the encouragement of the shop owner, Yassan, she decides to try her hand at creating plastic models.

This brief play portrays the experiences of university students embarking on the journey of starting a new venture.