Asian dramas like
Kurofuku Monogatari

Sakaki Ryo, a young man living on the outskirts of Tokyo, has faced a series of obstacles in his life. These include abandoning his childhood aspirations of becoming a soccer player and struggling to find stable employment. When his close friend Eitaro reveals that he is the top host at a club in Roppongi, Ryo decides to accompany him to address a certain issue. Upon being challenged by the arrogant Renjo, Ryo immerses himself in the nightlife scene in an attempt to rival Renjo as a host.

Mia Kurihara is employed in the public relations division of a corporation. Her feelings develop for the vice president of the company, Kairi Miyoshi, when he assists her in locating her lost engagement ring while on a work trip. Mia is unaware of his identity until he joins the public relations team for training. As his mentor, Mia must collaborate with Miyoshi, who can be strict yet also kind-hearted. Over time, Mia finds herself drawn to him, despite Miyoshi being married.

Kenta, a divorced man who recently left his job to work at his family's laundry business, reconnects with his former junior high girlfriend, Akehi, who is now a housewife in an unhappy marriage. Despite their respective situations, they find themselves drawn to each other again after attending an alumni reunion. Meanwhile, Kaoruko, a beautiful and intelligent woman who has lost trust in men due to a past failed relationship, no longer pays much attention to her appearance. Following the reunion, she becomes entangled with Ryosuke, a notorious playboy who has a history of short-lived relationships.

Kamijo Natsu resides in accommodation provided by her employer. One day, she overhears gossip from the other women in the neighborhood. The gossip suggests that Komaki Rie, a close friend of Natsu's, has left her spouse and child for another man. Natsu, who values family above all else, is skeptical of the rumor. Shortly after, Rie contacts Natsu and shares that she feels liberated and content in her decision. Meanwhile, a young man named Saeki Ryu moves into the apartment below Natsu's. Ryu happens to work in the same department as Natsu's husband, Yoshiyuki. As time goes on, Natsu begins to develop romantic feelings for Ryu.

Inspired by the Japanese manga "Ai No Memai Ai No Kizu" (Love Scar) by Ichijo Yukari, this story introduces a family reunion with an unexpected twist: your brother-in-law is actually your former lover. Four years prior, she met Zi Lin while traveling in Japan with her college friends. Their romance was unforeseen, but their age difference posed a challenge. They surrendered to their feelings and stayed together until his mother intervened, leading to their separation. Zi Lin considered her his first love, and after believing she had betrayed him, he turned into a womanizer, seeking revenge on all women, yet she never left his heart. Determined to win her back, he was willing to hurt his brother, particularly after learning the truth about his brother's breakup with Gen Sa. Zi Lian was devastated to find out that her past was tied to her brother. Overwhelmed with guilt for the situation, Gen Sha chose to step away from both of them, but the brothers remain hopeful for her return when she's ready… (D-wiki)

Based on the manga "Sakura 2-go" (2) created by Takeo Takeyama.

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.

Ayaka Tachibana's life took a turn for the worse when she lost her boyfriend and then her mother fell seriously ill. Seeking vengeance, she enters the hostess world with the ambition of becoming the top figure in Osaka's nightlife. Naoto Date, a member of the criminal underworld, becomes Ayaka's supporter and ally.

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.

Inspired by the order of deep-sea ray-finned fish known as Stomiiformes, the story revolves around Tomioka, a night security guard at a supermarket who is dissatisfied with his dull and solitary life. Yearning for companionship, he makes a wish upon a shooting star for a true friend. His wish seemingly comes true when he meets Azusa, a mysterious woman who moves in next door and quickly develops feelings for him. However, due to his social ineptitude, Tomioka remains oblivious to her affection. As their relationship unfolds, they find themselves facing unexpected challenges, including the arrival of a homeless man claiming to be a "life wanderer" and a cryptic death threat in the form of a letter predicting Tomioka's mental decline and demise within a year. This sudden turn of events shakes their lives to the core.

This tale revolves around Akira Kuroiwa, a 15-year-old boy who is unfamiliar with love, and Hijiri Suenaga, his 25-year-old teacher. As the summer unfolds, Akira starts to develop feelings for Hijiri, despite her being engaged to someone living far away. The narrative tracks their journey over the span of multiple years. (animenewsnetwork)

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?

Moriyama Shino, aged 30, enjoys her job but is lacking a romantic relationship. She desires to find a partner her age to date and eventually marry. Unexpectedly, Sato Mayuki, who is 9 years younger, confesses his feelings to her. Impressed by his honesty, she agrees to date him temporarily while she continues her search for a potential spouse. This story is adapted from a manga with the same title.

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)

Based on the manga series "Ashita, Who Will I Be Someone's Girlfriend?" by Ano Hinaa.

An inexperienced young man from Yamagata with a light complexion relocates to Tokyo for employment and engages in a brief romantic encounter with an older urban woman. As they explore their emotions, they ponder the authenticity of their bond, wondering if it is lasting or merely temporary. (TMDB) Inspired by the manga series "Tokyo Camouflage Hour" by Matsumoto Chiaki.

Following their deaths, a collection of individuals discover that they are now involved in the "Love Game," where they have the opportunity to begin their lives anew.

Harashima Hiromi started her career at Yotsuba Bank's main office right after finishing college. Due to her strong sense of justice and a past incident, she was transferred to a subsidiary company three years ago. Now, as part of a project highlighting successful women, Hiromi has been appointed as the head of the Corporate Sales Division at the Taito branch. Tasked with revitalizing the struggling branch, she is using her customer-centric approach to implement innovative changes with vigor and determination.

One afternoon, the intercom rings unexpectedly, catching Tanaka Yuka's attention

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.

The story follows the life of Nanase Kohei, a married man who decides to return to his old job as a male host. Using his kind and attentive personality, he impresses clients and regains his reputation as the top host. However, facing obstacles as he navigates his way back into the industry, Nanase fears his wife discovering his job and deals with envy from younger hosts. Throughout his journey, he aims to show that hosting is not just about making women spend money, but about forming genuine connections often overlooked in the profession.

Ando Mai, an 18-year-old high school student, has always been popular among the boys at her school. Unfortunately, this has also made her a target of jealousy and bullying from her female peers. To overcome the trauma she has experienced, Mai decides to enter the "Hostess Grand Prix" competition in hopes of being crowned the top kyabakura hostess and winning the grand prize of 300,000,000 yen.

Seo In Hwa is a university student pursuing a degree in painting at a renowned institution. She aspires to lead a life distinct from her mother's, who owned a hostess bar, yet finds herself oppressed by the influence of wealth and authority. Consequently, In Hwa takes a job as a hostess in a bar. Despite facing numerous challenges, she strives to excel and ultimately becomes the top in her profession. Following her success, In Hwa sets out to exact revenge on the powerful men who shattered her life and contributed to her mother's demise.

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.

After a tragic incident, Sakura Hiraga had to let go of her aspirations. She is now wedded to a man who operates a popular hair salon, and they reside in a lavish penthouse. Despite appearing to lead a glamorous life that sparks envy in others, Sakura is actually enduring physical and emotional abuse from her spouse, making it impossible for her to break free from the situation. She compares herself to a goldfish trapped in a bowl. Eventually, Sakura crosses paths with a man who changes her life, all thanks to a goldfish encounter.

In February of 1681, a significant fire broke out at Hongo Maruyama, eventually spreading to Komagome. Among the buildings destroyed was Yoaya, a vegetable store owned by Kihee. To ensure his daughter Oshichi's safety, Kihee sent her to stay at Daijo-ji Temple until their store and home were rebuilt. Oshichi found herself among other children who had also lost their homes and families. During her time at the temple, Oshichi developed feelings for Kichisaburo, a worker there. When the store and home were finally reconstructed, Oshichi had to return home where her father hoped she would marry Kanzo, a diligent worker at their store. Despite her father's expectations, Oshichi's heart belonged to Kichisaburo.

Serizawa Yusuke is employed at a legal firm when he is involved in a traffic collision. A woman comes to his aid, and although she seems recognizable to him, he cannot recall her identity. Yusuke Serizawa reflects on his previous romantic relationships.

Watanabe Mitsu is happily married to her second love, Ryota, who she met at the eye clinic where she works. Despite being different from the popular guys she used to date, Ryota is a caring man who always puts her first and even takes care of her mother. Mitsu's first love is Arishima Koki from her junior high school days, who suddenly disappeared without a word. Since then, she has been drawn to men who resemble Arishima. One day, Mitsu unexpectedly encounters Arishima again after a drinking session, reigniting their past connection and leading to an affair.

Tsuda Rintaro, a high school student, possesses the unique ability to foresee the lifespan of living beings. Despite having this gift since childhood, he struggles to use it to help others and can only passively observe those around him. His childhood friend, Kanzaki Umi, who harbors romantic feelings for him, is revealed to have less than 100 days left to live, leaving Tsuda in a difficult situation.

Sayaka Minami, a 30-year-old woman with no prior romantic involvement, has harbored feelings for her childhood friend since their college years. However, the night before their planned date, Sayaka awakens in the home of a colleague from work, experiencing memory loss. (ANN)

Shintaro, with hard work and dedication, there is a possibility of achieving nobility in the future. A town situated in the heart of the world during the night, known as the night ring. In this town controlled by hosts, clubs compete fiercely for dominance. They compare sales, drinks, and conflicts to determine the winner. In this place, winning is everything, regardless of the game being played. There is no influence of law enforcement or police. In a different part of the world, there lived a man who did not partake in the extravagant night ring lifestyle. Shintaro, the president of the civil engineering company "All-day Civil Engineering" passed down from his parents, toils in mud and sweat every day. He leads a modest yet fulfilling life with his employees. One day, the representative of the top night ring club "Texas" and Shintaro's brother make an appearance. Meanwhile, at St. Brilliant Academy following the Prince Championship, Kouki Tendo, Kyogoku Ryu, Hiura Kaiji, and Riku Odajima exhibit unusual behavior. A connection forms among the four students before the basketball tournament. And who is the individual linking the Night Rings to St. Brilliant School? Brothers, friends, best friends. Each one prepares for a battle strengthened by their familial bond in order to protect what is important to them.

When he was 17 years old, his private tutor Ozawa Maria, who was a university student at the time, left him with a final message: "I will be your girlfriend once you are accepted into university and reach adulthood." She then disappeared from his life abruptly. He still occasionally dreams about her, even a decade later. They meet again after 10 years; she is now a suspect in a series of murders, and he is working as a lawyer. As their relationship is rekindled, a tumultuous and heartbreaking love story unfolds. The protagonist's emotions fluctuate between affection and disdain as he questions whether Maria is a malevolent figure or a virtuous one.

Frustrated with dishonest and unfaithful men in her life, Koharu decides to leave the city and return home. However, upon her return, she discovers that her family is facing financial troubles with no solution in sight. Unexpectedly, a charming stranger proposes to clear their debt in exchange for Koharu marrying him. To make matters even more complicated, the man already has two wives. This storyline is adapted from the manga series "Hare Kon" by NON.

Childhood friends Kaede, Kaoru, Michiru, and Emi reunite on Emi's wedding day. However, Kaede faces challenges as her company goes bankrupt and her boyfriend breaks up with her, just as she nears her 30th birthday. Determined to pursue her childhood passion, Kaede decides to become a baker and lands a job at a bakery. But baking proves to be difficult, especially under the strict guidance of the senior baker. Meanwhile, Kaoru works at a high-end massage salon, Michiru struggles financially as she makes handbags, and Emi navigates the ups and downs of newlywed life. The future holds uncertainty for these women as they embark on their respective journeys.

After graduating from school, three women living in the city come together through their experiences with work and love. The play explores the theme of love and marriage, highlighting the importance of honest communication and mutual understanding in relationships. It serves as a reminder for urban men and women that while well-meaning lies may exist, a strong foundation of openness and understanding is essential for a successful marriage.

The man decides to leave his wife, child, and job as a middle school teacher to care for his former girlfriend who is battling a terminal illness. His wife is surprised by his sudden assertiveness and agrees to visit the ex-girlfriend as requested. Rather than feeling resentment, she finds herself drawn to her husband even more. The wife also forms a bond with the ex-girlfriend, leading to changes in their relationships. The three are surrounded by others with their own love-related issues, which impact the story's progression.

Ann, a 12-year-old girl, moved in with her maternal grandparents following her parents' divorce. She found solace in the companions she met in the unfamiliar countryside. Tragically, her mother passed away, but with the help of her friends, Ann was able to find joy again. However, her budding romance with one of her friends ended in heartbreak. The story is adapted from the manga series "Sand Chronicles" by Ashihara Hinako.

Walkin' Butterfly explores the uncertainties and discomfort that many young people face as they transition into adulthood. Michiko, the protagonist, stands out due to her height, which is different from that of most Japanese women, and her job as a part-time pizza delivery driver, typically seen as a male-dominated role. It is understandable that she grapples with feelings of insecurity about her identity as a woman and her societal position.

Watase Nozomi is in a relationship with Hasumi Tooru, but he fails to show up for their planned meeting. Over the following fortnight, Nozomi is unable to reach Tooru. Distraught, she decides to visit his apartment. Upon arrival, she does not find Tooru there, but she hears a ringing cell phone hidden under a pile of clothes and quickly answers it. Additionally, she notices a piece of paper with dark marks on it. Reading a text message on the phone, Nozomi visits the sender's residence, only to discover that the sender is deceased. Subsequent text messages request favors from Nozomi.

In the adaptation from the manga series "Jotei Kaoruko" by Kurashina Ryo and illustrated by Wake Issaku, Kiritani portrays Saya, a young woman who becomes a Ginza hostess after graduating from high school. Saya is on a quest to find her long-lost mother, whom she has never known, while facing off against Miki, another young hostess who is also searching for her father.

Tomura Toshiko (Minami) undergoes remarkable transformations based on her desires. Moving from an actress to a designer, and then to a novelist, she seems to reinvent herself like a caterpillar shedding its skin. However, these talents are not inherently hers, but rather skillfully imitated from those around her. Is she a prodigy crafted by a higher power, or simply a masterful mimic? Described as a femme fatale, she attracts the attention of many men. The duality of her love for others and her constantly evolving self represents a human flaw that must continue to manifest in a world where good and evil are intricately intertwined. -- DramaWiki (Jdrama Weblog)

The story revolves around a group of individuals eager to tie the knot, who attend different social events in search of their soulmates. The protagonist, Rika Hasumi, is a successful woman in her forties who is content in her career but still resides with her mother.

This drama on BeeTV is a live-action adaptation of Youko Nemu's manga "Gozen 3 ji no Muhou Chitai." The story follows Nanase Momoko, a new designer at a busy office that focuses on creating pachinko parlors. Honda Tsubasa stars as Momoko, while Odagiri Joe plays Tagayashi, a salaryman at a trading company in the same building as Momoko's office.

After losing her husband, Koki, in a tragic accident just a year into their marriage, Hinata Kiyoka finds herself unexpectedly managing Neko no Hige, a cozy flower shop and cafe. The cafe is home to a mysterious black cat named Kumi-chan, who has a reputation for offering uncannily accurate advice to customers seeking guidance. As word spreads about Kumi-chan's abilities, the cafe becomes a popular destination for those in need of help. However, things take a surprising turn when Kumi-chan becomes possessed by the spirit of Koki, sparking a complicated love triangle involving Kiyoka, the black cat, and Takumi, a fellow employee harboring feelings for her.

Reiko Doi is employed at a marketing firm in Tokyo, Japan. At 49 years old, she is divorced and does not have any children. Despite facing challenges as a working woman in her 20s and 30s when having children was not common, Reiko persevered through hard work. Currently, she finds herself caught between her superiors and juniors at work. While her male colleagues feel uneasy around her, her female colleagues display hostility. Despite these obstacles, Reiko Doi remains dedicated to her job, battles against feelings of isolation, and eventually discovers love.

Saegusa Yuzuko, a single mother of two, finds herself in a dire situation when the company she works for suddenly goes bankrupt, leaving her without income or savings. Unexpectedly, she receives a call from a lawyer named Kakihara Shinichi, who she doesn't recognize at first. However, Kakihara is actually an old high school classmate of Yuzuko's. Despite his unassuming appearance, Kakihara is a successful lawyer with an annual income exceeding 10 billion yen. He has harbored feelings for Yuzuko since their school days and reaches out to her upon learning of her predicament. While Kakihara believes there is a hidden reason behind the company's collapse, Yuzuko is more focused on finding a new job and initially declines his assistance. Through his investigation, Kakihara uncovers evidence suggesting that a mysterious sum of 3 billion yen may have contributed to the bankruptcy. Before she knows it, Yuzuko becomes entangled in the uncovering of this secret.

Based on the manga "Sweet Revenge," created by Sawada Kenichi and illustrated by Kashiwaya Cocco.