Asian dramas like
Last Chance

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.

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

Zhao Xiaoliang, a witty IT professional, faces career challenges at the same time his strong-willed girlfriend Pan Yun goes through a rough patch in their relationship. Coincidentally, they end up working together after getting married. To avoid any conflicts of interest, they decide to keep their marriage a secret and focus on supporting each other in their respective careers. As their accomplishments grow, so does the complexity of their hidden relationship, leading to a series of comical events. Their unwavering dedication to their work causes a strain on their trust in each other, especially when they both prioritize their careers over their relationship. Despite their deep love, they find themselves drifting apart as they struggle to balance their personal and professional lives. Pan Yun's pregnancy adds another layer of complications to their strained relationship. As they navigate through the blurred lines between work and love, they are forced to confront the conflicts between their desires and emotions. In the end, their love ultimately guides them to make a decision.

A side story featuring Sarukawa's coworkers at Lonron, a beverage company, unfolds

30-year-old Sada Seiya is employed at a general trading company and is considered the top performer in the Intermedia Communication Department, also known as the Handsome Department

The narrative follows Lee, a versatile individual who tackles challenges outside of the police's jurisdiction using unconventional methods

"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

Chun Sing Hoi, Fung Jik Yin, and Yau Tin Hang are known as the formidable trio in the field of public relations. Their days are spent navigating the glamorous world of the elite upper class. One day, Fung Jik Yin unexpectedly reunites with his former flame, Koo Sing Seung, and her brother, Koo Sing Hei, who are the offspring of a prominent real estate magnate. With Koo Sing Seung's half-sister, Koo Sing Fan, at the helm, the family business thrives, yielding significant power and influence in the city. Acting as a liaison, Koo Sing Seung helps the trio gain access to wealth, propelling them towards success. However, as they climb higher, they begin to lose more than they gain – sacrificing their relationships, integrity, and ultimately their sense of self.

Another Era kicks off with the backdrop of the worldwide economic downturn in 2008. Leo Ho Ting Sang, an ambitious businessman, seeks to acquire Fong Chung Yam's business empire, only to be thwarted by Cheuk Kai Tong. Enraged by this setback, Leo schemes to bring him down. Fast forward a decade, Cheuk Kai Tong emerges as one of the wealthiest individuals in the city. However, the tragic loss of his son leaves him emotionally shattered, leading to his confinement to bed and eventual coma. Stepping up to the challenge, his daughter Cheuk Ding Yiu takes the reins of the family business. Teaming up with her loyal accountant Ko Chit, she engages in a fierce business rivalry with Leo. Alongside Leo's wife Cheung Ming Hei, Fong Chung Yam's grandson Fong Chak Yu, and up-and-coming entrepreneur Ching Hoi enter the fray, heralding a new era of corporate warfare.

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)

For many years, Kwong Ming Pawn Shop has been well-known for its skilled owner, Uncle Kin, who has treated orphaned siblings Kwan Ling and Kwan Chun as if they were his own family. Despite a falling out that separated them, the siblings make a comeback years later when the shop encounters financial difficulties. Their return presents new obstacles and surprising twists, ultimately changing their connections and the future of the shop.

Having previously managed a prestigious hotel, Seiji has been given the responsibility of reopening a hotel in the high plains that has been closed for many years. With a budget of 20 million, he starts recruiting a diverse group of individuals to assist in the restoration of the hotel. Despite his efforts to attract a renowned chef, he faces difficulties in doing so. As concerns about the hotel's future arise among the staff, they contemplate leaving. However, just when things seem bleak, an elderly man who once worked as a chef at a prominent hotel arrives unexpectedly. Will this unexpected visit bring success to Seiji or will it only add to his challenges?

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.

Tanaka Reiichi, a young medical intern from a lineage of physicians, belongs to the "satori generation

Yukina, a third-year university student known for her outstanding academic performance, faces a series of rejections while attempting to secure internships at companies. This leaves her feeling disheartened and lacking in confidence. Unexpectedly, her professor assigns her to a training program focused on revitalizing the struggling Susukino snack bar "Yukari." Despite feeling out of her element in the unfamiliar world of snack bars, Yukina is tasked with enhancing the bar's operations and devising business strategies. As she delves deeper into the issues faced by customers at the bar, she uncovers underlying regional challenges in Hokkaido. Drawing on her marketing expertise, Yukina tackles these issues and sparks a transformation in Susukino. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of "Yukari" and Susukino, highlighting the bonds formed and Yukina's personal growth throughout the journey.

Takamura Minami, a 29-year-old employee at a small design firm in Fukuoka city, is approaching the significant age of 30. Despite the weight on her mind, she finds solace in the local cuisine of Fukuoka and her support for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks baseball team. This story is a heartfelt depiction of daily life in Fukuoka, where the delicious food and baseball team play a central role in Minami's experiences.

The narrative takes place in a beauty parlor known as Meikyu Aitomi, where departed souls stop by before journeying to the afterlife. Here, individuals who have received a transformation from a Shinigami hairstylist can reunite with their family and loved ones from their current life for a brief moment. Miho Saeki found herself in a coma following a car accident, yet she managed to visit Meikyo Aitomi despite still being alive.

An original play depicting how character relationships evolve with the passing of seasons. (natalie.mu)

A new drama series spun off from the Tuesday drama Unknown is based in the Yamihara household, where amusing interactions take place in the main plot, revealing the story of the parents' relationship