Asian dramas like
Lights And Shadows

Taking place in Beijing from the 1960s to the 1990s, this family drama portrays the everyday challenges and experiences of the families residing in a shared siheyuan (courtyard).

During the spring season, Munakata Ikujou went to an ancient temple to admire a 1000-year-old cherry blossom tree. It was there that Ikujou came across a young girl of 3 years and decided to take her in as his daughter. Fast forward 16 years, the girl named Sakurako has blossomed into a stunning woman. This is when Sakurako crosses paths with Takanashi Hiroto, and their love story begins to unfold.

The plot revolves around Tian Sufei, a woman who navigates her romantic and marital experiences spanning from 1947 to the 1980s.

Friend, Our Legend is a television adaptation of the 2001 gangster classic "Friend," created by the same director, Kwak Kyung Taek. This drama presents a raw and captivating story featuring a talented ensemble cast, revolving around four childhood friends who ultimately turn into adversaries and fierce competitors. Hyun Bin portrays a tough gangster, a character that became iconic through Jang Dong Gun's performance in the original film.

This narrative depicts the transformation of a typical family in Tangshan spanning from 1962 to 2000, as well as chronicles the life journey of four companions from infancy to adulthood. (Baidu)

A young person from Beijing named Liu Fang accidentally caused Luo Chun Yang to fall off a cliff and then ran away. Liu Fang embarked on a difficult journey through the snow to find Lei Xiao Man. Along the way, Liu Fang collapsed, but was rescued by a passing carriage and brought back to the Corps. With the assistance of Lei Xiao Man, Ciu Li Li, and Jia Zheng Jun, Liu Fang was able to remain in the Corps. This marks the beginning of the emotional stories from life in the Great Northern Wilderness Corps in the early 1970s.

This show takes place during the early stages of China's economic reforms and opening up in the late 1970s. It follows the life of Du Juan, a dancer serving in the military.

The story takes place in Taiwan during the 1950s to 1970s, with a projected conclusion in the year 2000 as per the screenwriter's plan. It centers around a specific village where themes of love and friendship are prominent. Every family in the village has a unique tale to share.

Spanning from the mid-1970s to the mid-1990s, this narrative centers on a group of educated young people whose friendships develop during their time spent in rural areas. As they return to urban life, confront the pressures of college entrance examinations, and adapt to the shifts brought about by China's reform era, each individual embarks on a unique journey. Among this group, Yu Leshan and Sheng Xuezhu endure fifteen years filled with challenges, love, and aspirations, while others either thrive or struggle amidst the changing landscape. The drama vividly captures this historical period, highlighting themes of resilience, bravery, and the quest for one’s dreams, while also cautioning against the pitfalls of succumbing to temptation and desire.

Taking place during the resurgence of the university entrance exam in the 1970s, the story revolves around the connections between a group of college students. It delves into their complex lives and emotional entanglements as they navigate through the distinctive human experiences of the 1980s.

In 1941, a group of Chinese soldiers, under the leadership of Pan Tiande, were defeated by the Japanese forces. They sought refuge in the Soviet Union by seeking assistance from the Soviet army. Officer Natasha took on the responsibility of training them. Through the subsequent military engagements, Pan's patriotism and courage deeply touched Natasha, leading to a romantic relationship between them. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Pan chose to contribute to the country as a mechanic, while Natasha pursued a career as a Soviet mechanic specialist after completing her education. As they were preparing for their wedding, Natasha received orders to return to the Soviet Union, resulting in a heart-wrenching departure. Natasha later wrote to Pan, informing him that she had settled near the border, eagerly awaiting his return.

Riding the wave of change, the narrative follows a former soldier as he navigates civilian life. In 1985, a group of military medics is tasked with providing support to troops, leading Mo Li, Zeng Bu Yu, Zhao Yi Qin, Wen Ting, and Wang Jian Yun to forge complex connections with the soldiers. As time passes, each individual moves forward in their own separate paths. This story is adapted from the novel "Buyu Hostel" by Yan Ge Ling.

Taking place from the 1930s to the 2000s, "Qian Jin" follows the story of Ling Qian Jin, a young girl who lost her parents at a young age. Years later, she discovers her family and heritage as a young woman. Despite facing mistreatment from her step-grandmother and being entangled in a love triangle, Qian Jin must decide whether to accept her circumstances or change her destiny. This series is a remake of the Singaporean TV show "The Little Nyonya" from 2008.

Three decades ago, Qiao Zu Wang's wife passed away following the birth of their fifth child, leaving him to raise their children on his own

The narrative centers around a man who was greatly impacted by television and the entertainment industry from a young age, eventually finding success in the field. Set in the late 1970s, Feng Du grew up in the narrow streets of historic Beijing. Introduced to a television set at a friend's house, he was captivated by the images on the screen. In an effort to impress his girlfriend, Feng Du even constructed a makeshift TV out of spare parts during his high school years. With the country embracing reform, Feng Du seizes the opportunity to chase his aspirations and embarks on a journey towards becoming a producer.

Sing Ming and Nam Cheuk Si established a law practice together and brought in two additional attorneys -- Lo Sou and Yu Do Cheun. Despite their differences, the four men share a strong bond. Known for their sharp legal skills, they have a winning track record in court that has earned them the admiration of many female clients. Unfortunately, the firm faces a crisis involving financial misconduct. To navigate through this challenging time, four female attorneys with diverse backgrounds join forces with the original partners. These new additions include Ku Ka Ying, who has a history of conflict with Sou, Sung Lai Sa, a wealthy young wife, Ku Ka Man, a housewife representing her husband's interests, and the attractive and youthful Yau Mat. As the group grapples with challenges both in their professional and personal lives, they uncover a surprising revelation - there is a mastermind pulling the strings behind the scenes at the law firm.

A story unfolds as we follow a group of individuals as they navigate various milestones in their lives. The first and second parts are set in 1957, while the third and fourth parts occur 16 years thereafter.

A romantic drama featuring two men who are in love with half-sisters, yet were brought up as if they were true twin sisters, set against the backdrop of the 1960s to 1970s. (HanCinema)

The narrative unfolds in South Korea, where every citizen, regardless of gender, is required to complete a two-year compulsory military service, which has traditionally been assigned to men. The plot centers around a division of the reserve forces composed entirely of women.

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)

A collection of narratives following the adventures of the China Army Special Forces team known as "Six Lone Wolfs," inspired by the book "The Last Bullet Left to Me" written by Liu Meng.

In 1926, Mu Wan Qing returns to China carrying her mother's ashes, determined to uncover the truth behind her parents' separation and her brother's death. In the midst of political turmoil in Shanghai, Tan Xuan Lin seizes power but faces threats, while Xu Guang Yao, the son of a respected commander, steers clear of political conflicts. Their paths cross when Mu Wan Qing forms alliances with them, leaning on Xu Guang Yao for support and collaborating with Tan Xuan Lin to solve a mystery related to her family. As they navigate dangerous circumstances, they realize the importance of safeguarding their nation.

Seo Myung Joon, a scientist from South Korea, finds himself romantically involved with Im Jin Jae, a scientist from North Korea, while they collaborate on creating an alternative energy source. However, when Myung Joon unexpectedly ascends to the presidency of a reunified Korea, political strife intensifies as a fierce battle over scarce natural resources perpetuates the division within the nation.

Following a paragliding mishap, South Korean heiress Yun Se Ri finds herself stranded in North Korea

The narrative takes place against the backdrop of the Chinese economic reform period spanning from 1978 to 1992, focusing on three individuals who defy the odds. Song Yunhui, despite facing discrimination due to his background, seizes the opportunity to excel in the exams in 1978 and becomes a certified technician. However, as he advances in his career, he becomes consumed by his ambition for success. In contrast, Lei Dongbao, Song Yunhui's brother-in-law, hails from a humble background and is known for his rugged rural upbringing. Despite becoming a respected leader in his community during the economic reform era, his lack of education hinders his progress. Yang Xun, on the other hand, navigates through different challenges as he strives to capitalize on business opportunities amidst the changing times, setting forth on a path to entrepreneurship. (ChineseDrama.info)

Kenji Amo, a second-generation Japanese-American, was born in the United States but received his education in Japan before returning to attend UCLA. Currently, he works as a journalist for a newspaper located in the Little Tokyo neighborhood of Los Angeles. Among his colleagues is Charlie Tamiya, who also studied at UCLA and harbors romantic feelings for Nagiko, another coworker at the newspaper. This dynamic creates a complex situation for Kenji Amo. When Nagiko's friend Emi Hatanaka proposes marriage to him, he agrees, but their plans are disrupted by the outbreak of the Pacific War, leading to significant changes in Kenji Amo's circumstances.

Su Ai Ling, the courageous protagonist, passed away unexpectedly while working late, only to be reborn in the 1980s. Upon discovering her engagement, she immediately called it off. A clash with her boss, Zhang Zhi Ming, resulted in a bitter rivalry between the two. Despite breaking off their engagement, Su Ai Ling helped Zhang Zhi Ming save face by setting up stalls together. Facing pressure from debt collector Wang Guo Hua and her aunt's marriage proposals, Su Ai Ling resorted to a desperate plan: she convinced Zhang Zhi Ming to pretend she was pregnant with his child and move in with him. Eventually, the two put aside their differences and reconciled after a heated argument.

As kids, they were in love, but the controlling CEO disappeared on their wedding day. Suddenly, he came back to China after three years to seek a divorce. Seeking legal help, he ended up falling for the lawyer, unaware that she was his estranged wife.

In a story about Somae Ao and Natsuno Nagi, their lives are intertwined by destiny

Kim Jung Ho, a well-known and wealthy filmmaker, recently traveled to China from Korea. While in China, he coincidentally comes across a poster of Ouyang Ming Ming, a rising star who he used to go to school with and was his first love. Inspired, he seeks guidance from his elderly uncle on mastering The Art of War in order to win over Ming Ming. However, things take an unexpected turn when he encounters Ming Ming's guardian, Yu Xuan.

Zhi Yin Sheng is a well-liked figure in the dance group "San Jian Sheng" (The Three Musketeers) and is highly respected by his peers. Despite his popularity, he exudes an air of arrogance. Han Qian Hui, on the other hand, is a kind-hearted and affectionate young woman. When she comes across a derogatory post about females online, she pens a sharp response that catches the attention of Yin Sheng, the original poster. Although they start off as adversaries, their close friends, Zheng Xi Can and Xu Jia Le, develop a romantic relationship. As Yin Sheng and Qian Hui interact through mutual friends and other chance encounters, their hearts gradually open up to each other and they fall in love.

Dashing, wealthy, and always surrounded by beautiful women, Lu Sinoe, the Chairman of Luks Properties, along with his friend Chen Shu-Feng and cousin Jingu, stroll through the city with a strong belief that women only seek marriage for financial security. On the other hand, Liu Lin enjoys her independent life with her best friends Yang Yang and Su-Yue, embracing her single status. However, Liu Lin's mother's insistence on finding her a partner leads her to reluctantly attend matchmaking sessions. She believes in living a fulfilling single life rather than seeking out love. When Liu Lin tries to prevent an unexpected marriage between Chen Shu-Feng and Yang Yang, she crosses paths with Lu Sinoe, leading to a clash of personalities. Despite their initial animosity, as they navigate through failed relationships and job struggles, Liu Lin ends up working for Lu Sinoe's company, sparking more conflicts between them. The presence of Lu Sinoe's secretary, Yu-min, adds further confusion to their relationship. After facing numerous challenges, the misunderstandings between them slowly fade away, allowing for a deeper connection to form. However, fate intervenes once again, throwing them into a new wave of uncertainty. Caught between staying or leaving, they both carry their pain in their hearts, unsure of what lies ahead.

Is it possible for five contemporary Chinese women to discover the love and admiration they desire during their middle age? Chen Qing Xia has retired from her career as a model, Fiona holds a senior position in a company, Bi Ran works as a translator, Catherine was raised abroad and currently works in media, and Li Xiao Yi is the sole member of the group who fears solitude. While navigating the challenges of their intricate relationships with men and family, will these women be able to achieve the joy they are searching for?

A team of relationship experts assist individuals in turning their romantic aspirations into reality. Each expert brings a unique background to the table, initially coming together to establish a PR company. Surprisingly, they evolved into the most sought-after agency for relationship guidance. As they aid clients in finding their ideal partners, they also discover their own journeys.

"My Forgetful Girlfriend" is a romantic comedy that follows the amusing situations that arise when the female protagonist (Nam Gyuri) experiences amnesia. Nam Gyuri will portray two roles in the series - a wealthy heiress and a regular girl who loses her memory and ends up living in the male lead's home as a nanny.

Is it possible for a heterosexual man to be a woman's closest friend without any ulterior motives? Fang Jun is a dedicated marriage advisor who approaches his work with sincerity. His clientele includes Liu Hui Yun, a divorced woman betrayed by her successful husband; Ye Shan, a career-focused woman who has neglected her personal life; and Yi Yi, a stylish young woman who rushed into marriage and subsequent divorce. As Jun forms close relationships with these women, attending to their needs and even cooking meals for them at their homes, it raises the question: is he genuinely seeking friendship or is he adept at gaining new clients for his consultancy business? (Viki)

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.

Yu Tong and Xu Zheng, a married couple, faced a rift in their relationship due to a misunderstanding and decided to separate. To ease his financial burden, Xu Zheng rented out rooms in their home to his friends, Xia Feng and Yi Nan, after Yu Tong left without informing him. One day, they discovered an abandoned baby and chose to care for it collectively. This experience resulted in personal growth for each of them, ultimately leading to a reconciliation between Xu Zheng and Yu Tong.

A chance encounter brings Zhou Qing Qing and You Bin together unexpectedly. Their paths cross when they each receive a sachet at the same moment - Qing Qing's sachet reads "Fortune Luck" while Bin's reads "Blossom Luck." When Qing Qing's mother complains about her single status, Bin offers to switch sachets, giving Qing Qing the "Blossom Luck," much to her annoyance. However, it becomes apparent that Bin may actually need the "Fortune Luck" more than Qing Qing. Bin's ex-wife returns, believing he has won the lottery and demanding money to repay her debt. Meanwhile, Qing Qing breaks up with her non-committal boyfriend Lu Yao Wei. To appease her mother, Qing Qing asks Bin to pretend to be her new boyfriend, leading to real feelings developing between them. Complications arise when Qing Qing's best friend tries to reunite her with Yao Wei. The question remains - what lies ahead for Qing Qing and Bin?

Every woman deserves the opportunity to find love, according to Chen Guo. She is determined to show that women who have been unfairly labeled as undesirable by society have the right to seek out their perfect partners and tie the knot. To prove her point, the ex-banker founded Sheng Dou Shi's Shop, a matchmaking service dedicated to helping these marginalized women discover genuine love. Guo, alongside her skilled team members such as IT specialist LiSi Ming and charming spokesperson Bai Yu, works closely with each client to assist them in finding long-lasting happiness in relationships.

Lei Xiao Tao and Yang Kang share a deep love for each other, but their relationship has faced challenges from the start. Their families disapprove of their hasty marriage, despite both partners having successful careers and dreams for the future. The arrival of Luo Yi disrupts their lives, leading Lei Xiao Tao to reevaluate her feelings and ultimately choose between Luo Yi and Yang Kang.

Jin Qi Lin hails from a lineage of matchmakers, traditionally a position held by the women in the family