Asian dramas like
Romance In The Alley

Xia Dong Hai, a children's drama director who has been through a divorce, returns to Beijing from the United States with his young son Xia Yu (often referred to as "Little Yu") and daughter Xiao Xue (also known as "Little Xue"). He plans to settle down with Liu Mei, a divorced woman who has a son named Liu Xing from her previous marriage. Despite the unconventional family dynamics, the five of them live happily together in a modern flat in Beijing. The storyline follows the family members as they navigate through various challenges in life and work together to overcome them. This family structure deviates from the typical one-child policy in modern Chinese families.

During the late 1950s, the Republic of China, which had endured over fifty years of war, celebrated its tenth anniversary. Yang Xiao Yi, Liu Shi Jun, and their peers are young individuals of this new era embarking on a path to leave their mark on the world. Raised in a single-parent household, Yang Xiao Yi is resolute in uncovering the true identity of her biological father. As she navigates through challenges with her family, friends, and loved ones, she learns valuable lessons and remains resilient in the face of adversity.

The narrative centers around Lu Xiao Nan (played by Tina Tang), an independent woman who harbors a fear of marriage due to the complexities involved in merging two lives and families. However, she meets Kevin (portrayed by William Chan), a university professor who is unfettered by familial ties and possesses a warm and adaptable nature. Despite her initial reservations, Xiao Nan marries Kevin and supports him in his quest to reconnect with his estranged family. As they navigate the challenges of blending into his family, Xiao Nan finds solace and purpose with the help of her supportive husband. Meanwhile, Kevin unravels the mysteries surrounding his childhood amnesia. The series is available in two versions: 66 episodes lasting 35-55 minutes each for TV viewing, or 70 episodes of 45 minutes each for DVD watching.

The narrative follows the journey of two elderly friends who find solace in each other as they navigate the challenges of letting go of earthly concerns. Through the eyes of Gu Jia Yi, we gain insight into the lives and hardships faced by her mother and her mother's companions.

In the late 1980s, the focus of the story is on the interactions among five families living in a neighborhood. Situated in a small city in southern China, the community is comprised of individuals spanning various age groups. Within this setting, Gao Xiao Min resides with her three sisters, along with four boys who each possess unique personalities. The parents of these children share moments of concern and joy over the simplest of matters. Gao Xiao Min shoulders the responsibility of her family's financial obligations and her father's lack of employment. Meanwhile, Bao Zi's father navigates through various challenges. The narrative provides a glimpse into the everyday lives of the residents in this special neighborhood.

A new version of the 2005 family comedy series Happy Household follows the lives of two blended families navigating the challenges of living together. Siblings Jiang Nan, 25, and Jiang Bei, 22, find themselves in a unique situation when their parents divorce and divide their shared apartment. Jiang Nan and her mother Wu Qiong take the upper level, while Jiang Bei and his father Jiang Guo Li reside downstairs. Jiang Guo Li, 50, marries the 35-year-old gym instructor Dai Ling Ling, who has a son named Tong Tong. Wu Qiong, 49, ties the knot with Du Wei, a longtime idol of hers who is an actor. Du Wei has a daughter named Yang Yang, who is 12 years old. This arrangement leads to the two sets of parents and their four children living together under one roof.

During a period of change in the 1980s, six households residing on Mayang Street in Guangzhou witness the joys of youth and romance

Cheng Miao Miao, 17, and her brother Cheng Ya Ya, 16, were both born in the primary oil production facility of Linqi Oilfield. Their family has worked in the oilfield for three generations. Their father, Cheng Peng Fei, works as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, while their mother, Jia Dai Yu, is in charge of team logistics. The family relocated from the northwest to the coastal base of Heping Town in the late 1990s. Miao Miao, eager to explore the world beyond, convinced her childhood sweetheart Li Si and best friend Hu Qiu Min to join her on a summer adventure to "welcome Hong Kong back to the motherland," but the plan fell through. Meanwhile, Ya Ya ventured into the back mountains for an archaeological expedition, where he was nearly mistaken for a grave robber. Their mother, Jia Dai Yu, fretted constantly as the siblings navigated the tumultuous waters of high school life. Miao Miao found herself embroiled in a friendship dilemma with Li Si, while Ya Ya encountered Yuan Shan Qing, a new transfer student in his class who happened to be the daughter of a wanted criminal. Ya Ya bravely defended Shan Qing against the hostility from their classmates. Through these challenges, the siblings experienced significant personal growth and maturation.

Xiao Yan, a strong and independent woman in the workplace, is determined to advance to a senior position at Thea Group and establish a new makeup brand. Due to her exceptional performance, she was tasked with overseeing the maternal and child sector for better prospects. This presented a significant challenge for Xiao Yan, who believed in self-love and prioritized a dual-income-no-kids lifestyle. With the assistance of You Ya, a full-time mother and her girlfriend, Xiao Yan began to understand the challenges and sacrifices of motherhood, leading to a transformation in You Ya's personality from dependency to independence. As Xiao Yan focused on the maternal and infant project, her competitor Chen Jiao Rui had to leave due to pregnancy. Upon returning to work after giving birth, Chen Jiao Rui struggled to balance her family and career, feeling overwhelmed. Xiao Yan stepped in to help Chen Jiao Rui regain her confidence and realize the selfless and genuine love she had for her children. Through this experience, Xiao Yan also underwent a transformation from self-love to embracing love for family and friends, respecting mothers, and cherishing children, ultimately learning the true meaning of empathy and genuine love. In the end, the three women, each with their own strengths and determination, came together to embark on a business venture, supporting and inspiring each other as they navigated the challenges and joys of life.

During the second semester of her junior year, 17-year-old Su Qiao found herself sharing a desk with the popular student Lin Zi Lu. Unfortunately, his arrival seemed to bring nothing but trouble for Su Qiao. Despite their rocky history from ten years ago, Lin Zi Lu not only caused her financial strain but also ended up moving into her home. Feeling somewhat alienated as Lin Zi Lu befriended other classmates, Su Qiao couldn't help but wonder when he planned on leaving. Despite the initial tension, Su Qiao and Lin Zi Lu eventually bonded while working in the fields, facing challenges together, and pursuing their aspirations side by side. As the end of the school year approached, Lin Zi Lu had to return to the city for his senior year, leaving behind memories of a summer filled with growth and camaraderie in Huxin Village.

After their father's factory closed due to the recession, Xiao Xun and her sister Chanel found themselves under the care of Mimi-chan, a glamorous police detective and family friend, as their parents evaded debt collectors. To make ends meet, the sisters decided to take in a new roommate named Lee Wei. Lee Wei, who happened to be the younger sibling of a notorious crime boss named Lee Xiong, harbored ambitions of following in his brother's criminal footsteps despite his exceptional intelligence that seemed better suited for a different path. Lee Xiong, however, insisted that Lee Wei attend college and lead a respectable life, a demand that Lee Wei adamantly refused. As a result, Lee Wei was sent to Mimi-chan for guidance and positive influence, given her law enforcement background. Over the course of a peculiar and eventful summer, these individuals from contrasting backgrounds would coexist under one roof and gain valuable insights into the complexities of life.

Qi Ming and Yi Yao are neighbors residing in the same lane. Qi Ming, being the older brother, always looks out for and supports Yi Yao. He plants a tree for Yi Yao in the rear of the lane, hoping to provide her with the family of her dreams and the warmth she desires. Over time, Qi Ming assists Yi Yao through a misdiagnosed illness, an emergency surgery, and various challenges, including love troubles and career transitions. Despite facing obstacles, Qi Ming and Yi Yao eventually overcome them after graduating from college and leaving the alley. However, they are forced to part ways again due to their professional pursuits. The story reflects the beauty and regrets of youth as each character strives to achieve their dreams and improve their lives.

Five women have recently become neighbors, all residing on the same floor of an apartment complex. Among them, there is Zhu Zhe, a hotel manager, Yu Chu Hui, who is relatively new to the workforce, and He Min Hong, who share a flat. The other two units are occupied by the mysterious Fang Zhi Heng and Ye Zhen Zhen, a life science researcher. Each woman comes from a different background and faces challenges in their careers, families, and relationships. Fang Zhi Heng's behavior raises suspicion, while Ye Zhen Zhen experiences unexpected hostility in her workplace. Yu Chu Hui's intelligence leads her to employ deceitful tactics, only to learn valuable lessons. Zhu Zhe excels in her work but struggles to advance due to her lack of academic qualifications. He Min Hong's well-meaning actions often backfire due to her naivety. Despite their individual struggles, these women eventually learn to open up to each other and support one another in their personal growth journey in the bustling city of Shanghai.

The medical school idol drama stars a cast comprised mainly of graduates from the Shanghai Drama Academy Class of 2013 who were born after the 1990s.

The tale follows a family of five as they come to understand the true essence of family amidst a string of disputes. When Father Zheng unexpectedly falls ill and later wakes from a coma, he takes the opportunity to reflect on his actions and mend old wounds. In doing so, he aids his four children - a dedicated surgeon, a manager of a housekeeping company, an owner of an auto repair shop, and a spoiled youngest daughter - in discovering themselves, appreciating life, and embracing their true selves.

Deviating from the typical youth drama formula, this campus narrative revolves around themes of friendship, familial affection, and motivation. Centered around a 17-year-old main character, the storyline follows a cohort of young individuals navigating their way through college life, showcasing their journey of personal development. (Douban)

The primary characters in "Searchin' for My Polestar" are a group of 7 friends who first met in college as members of the "Sagittarius" astronomical observation club. While they joined the club as an excuse to spend time at the beach in summer and go skiing in winter, their only real stargazing experience occurred at a summer camp during their senior year. Despite exchanging vows of eternal friendship, their busy schedules over the years have caused them to drift apart. It has now been 3 years since that memorable summer under the stars. Will their friendship continue to weaken, or will they find a way to strengthen their bond once again? (Fuji TV)

A fictionalized account of the journey to success of two comedians who struggled with deep-seated insecurities. Wakabayashi Masayasu and Yamasato Ryota were not always pleasant individuals. They battled shyness, self-doubt, and feelings of inadequacy. Despite facing numerous setbacks, their determination and passion helped them survive the challenges of youth.

Eun Chae Ryung is a pampered daughter who has always depended entirely on her father. However, when he gets into an accident one day, she is abruptly jolted out of her protected existence and compelled to grow up, facing a series of challenges that ultimately lead her to become self-sufficient.

Chi Hwan values wealth and power over following the law and aspires to be at the top of society. He faced tragedy at a young age when his mother died under suspicious circumstances, leading him to endure poverty and war on his own. Determined to escape his hardships, he climbed out of poverty to achieve great success as the chairman of Shine Cosmetics. Se Na, who is actually Yi Chang's biological daughter, grows up believing she is Chi Hwan's daughter and dreams of inheriting his fortune. She longs to be with Jin Woo, but soon realizes he is in love with Hae In, Chi Hwan's biological daughter. In a twist of fate, Hae In lost her mother as a child and was adopted by Yi Chang. How will the destinies of these fathers and daughters unfold?

A man who trades love for financial gain becomes enamored with a gentle and pure flower arranger. Meanwhile, the arranger's close friend has harbored feelings for her for quite some time. Whom will she ultimately pick as her partner?

What are the desires of women in their thirties? They aspire to maintain their integrity and not settle for less in life

Li Wen Qin, a young person from Qiaotou, was arrested for participating in the Formosa Magazine Parade on December 10, 1979. While in prison, he discovered innovative ways to sustain himself, such as mixing saltwater with rice and consuming it along with memories of his lover, A Chun, moments shared with loved ones, and his unwavering desire for democracy. Despite the harsh conditions of the prison, known as the "Hotel Saltwater," Wen Qin and his fellow inmates held onto their spirits that yearned for freedom.

The narrative unfolds as men and women in their 40s reunite after three decades, thanks to an event organized by a former classmate. While they keep their current lives concealed, they relish the gathering and subsequently return to their daily routines. However, two of the attendees start meeting regularly, reigniting past passions and leading to a perilous romantic entanglement. The story intricately explores the tensions within families and the weight of everyday life, yet as they unravel the enigma, the bonds of friendship and affection among them withstand numerous challenges and reconciliations. This tale captures the loneliness and struggles of middle age in contemporary existence, which imposes the obligations of parenthood and partnership upon them, offering a chance to reflect on the lives they inadvertently left behind long ago.

Five young women in their twenties move into a home named "Belle Epoque," which translates to "a beautiful era" in French. Each woman brings her own unique personality, background, and challenges. Alongside the five, they sense a sixth entity—a ghost residing in the house, perceived differently by each of them. As the girls develop a bond of understanding and grow closer, they navigate their individual struggles while experiencing the ups and downs of their vibrant twenties. The drama explores their challenges and experiences related to relationships—both within their friend groups and in dating, as well as their interactions with one another—and encompasses a variety of life events, such as college credits, part-time jobs, drinking, aspirations, and dreams. (JTBC)

The narrative focuses on students enrolled in a specialized high school who are pursuing their goals instead of pursuing higher education. It will explore how these students navigate love, friendship, genuine passions, and maturing in a challenging setting. Kong Gi Jun is a diligent student juggling work and academics, having lost his childhood dream of taekwondo due to an injury. Jung Yeong Ju is a new student with a mysterious background and a previous connection to Kong Gi Jun. Jin Ji Won, a self-assured high schooler with a clear ambition, confidently expresses her views despite disagreements with her mother about college. Kang Seo Yeong is a talented student independently preparing for university entrance exams with the goal of attending one of Korea's top five universities. Lee Gang Hun is a teacher who values a healthy work-life balance and evolves alongside his students. Koo Mi Hui serves as the school's chairperson. Lee Jae Hui, a reserved individual, strives to instigate numerous changes. Lee Jae Hyeok, Lee Jae Hui's sibling, contrasts with Jae Hui as the one receiving support from the foundation.

The 'Bangpan Sisters' are a group of four women who embarked on a journey of independence, personal growth, and camaraderie by selling adult products door-to-door in a rural village back in 1992. At a time when discussions about intimacy were considered taboo, these women were pioneers who dared to break the silence surrounding such topics. Their ability to inject vitality into the private lives of couples allowed them to not only survive but thrive in an environment where mentioning the word 'sex' was a challenge. This story is a remake of the 2016 British drama "Brief Encounters."

Childhood friends Chen Mu Guang and Shi Fan Tuan have been each other's pillars of support since they were young. Despite facing numerous challenges over the years, they eventually end up together. Chen Mu Guang has had a tough life but remains a principled and sincere individual. Although he may appear distant, he is actually quite sensitive and caring. On the other hand, Shi Fan Tuan is known for being a bit scatterbrained. Growing up with such contrasting personalities inevitably leads to misunderstandings between them.

Against the backdrop of achieving a prosperous society in 2020, the theme may seem grand. However, the focus of the storytelling is not on grandeur but on delving into the lives of common people. The series consists of 6 mini-stories: 1. A Different Summer 2. Youthful Residence 3. Youthful Taste 4. Snowflake Dessert Shop 5. New Year’s Eve Supper 6. Longing (Douban, dramawiki)

The series "New Kids War" follows the story of Otsuki Kaori, a primary school teacher who is transferred to a new school after an incident involving bullying

Minami, a girl who is hearing impaired, uses sign language to connect with her first love, Kaiji, as they navigate their budding romance together with the help of a puppy. As their relationship deepens, Minami develops an unattainable longing to hear Kaiji's voice. In a heartfelt gesture, Kaiji promises to act as Minami's ears. However, the constraints of their youth prevent them from keeping this promise. Their story unfolds over 15 years, filled with both beauty and heartache, as they navigate their first love and family bonds. (TBS)

Laurel Tree Tailor Shop, a family-run establishment, has been operating for nearly a century. The master tailor, Lee Man Sool, has mastered the rare skill of crafting bespoke suits. After deciding to leave, Man Sool leaves behind a note for his wife, instructing her to sell the traditional shop, as he believes it can no longer sustain itself and lacks the strength to do it himself. His family—his wife, son, and daughter—are shocked by his choice. Meanwhile, his former apprentice is heartbroken upon hearing of Man Sool’s departure and considers returning to the shop, a move his wife prohibits. Family dynamics become complicated when Dong Jin unexpectedly loses his position as president of his father-in-law’s company, and his wife initiates divorce proceedings. Convinced that returning to his father's tailor shop is his best option, Dong Jin makes that decision. The seamstresses are eager to keep the shop running until their boss returns, but one woman is hesitant due to her negative experiences with Dong Jin. What will it take to rescue this cherished community shop? (Viki)

A genuine drama that explores themes of dating and marriage, created by PlayList Global.

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.

The plot revolves around the emotional and challenging journey of Xie Yu Jin, a widow, and her children during the 1990s. The eldest son, Bai Er Hei, is known for his honesty and integrity, and is married to the determined Chen Xiao Na. Bai Jie, the second son, is a former convict with aspirations for a better future, while the only daughter, Bai Yu, is a kindergarten teacher known for her candid nature.

Five men and four women share a single apartment in the Chinese sitcom iPartment, often compared to the popular show Friends. Filled with witty banter, humor, and references to history and pop culture, iPartment follows the amusing, bizarre, romantic, and heartwarming escapades of the Love Apartment residents. Although Shanghai is a vast city, they all reside in the same building, occupying two separate units. Two of the residents, Tie Zhu and Er Niu, finally meet by chance and eventually fall in love, leading to a joyous wedding ceremony. In a touching gesture, the building owner renames the building "Love Apartment" in their honor and offers discounts on rent, water, and electricity to all couples residing there. Wedding crashers Lu Zi Qiao and Chen Mei Jia, despite their mutual dislike, cannot resist the temptation to join the Love Apartment community. However, their plan to deceive the other residents proves to be more challenging than expected.

The show follows the turbulent journey of a girl named Qi Mei, born in the Year of the Sheep. Tragedy strikes when her second sister drowns and her third sister disappears, leading her father to blame Qi Mei for it all. Despite facing abandonment and hardships due to societal norms and emotional betrayals, Qi Mei endures and perseveres in her quest for a fulfilling life and happiness.

The narrative follows Yang Tao, a 30-year-old who is opposed to the idea of marriage. Guo Ran, a civil servant, shares the same sentiment towards marriage. Initially, the two clash due to a misunderstanding but eventually their bond strengthens. Despite their growing relationship, their parents disapprove of each other, posing a significant challenge. Can their love triumph over this obstacle?

Three sets of couples navigate the pressures from society and their families to tie the knot. Ming Liang and Gao Jian are rivals at work, but both share a similar perspective on marriage - they prefer casual relationships over commitment. However, as their feelings for each other deepen, they embark on a secret romance that challenges their beliefs about marriage. Bao Nian Nian falls in love with the charming Fang SiQi and unexpectedly becomes pregnant. Despite pressure from their families to wed, Nian Nian experiences a miscarriage on the day they obtain their marriage license. With their original reason for marriage now gone, the couple must decide the fate of their relationship. Meanwhile, Yu Xiao Nuo is in a relationship with Cheng Lei, a struggling musician, but hesitates to marry him due to his financial situation. As Xiao Nuo seeks a wealthy partner, Cheng Lei's career takes off. Will these couples opt for marriage or pursue alternative paths to happiness?

In 2009, Deng Cao Cao faces the kidnapping of her three-year-old son, leading to her husband Guan Hao blaming her for negligence and the subsequent decision to divorce. Despite the passage of five years, she continues to struggle as a single parent while on a relentless quest to locate her missing child. Along the way, she crosses paths with Gong Jian, a former military serviceman turned entrepreneur, who aids her in the search for her son and forms a deep bond with both mother and child. As Cao Cao and Gong Jian grow closer, complications arise with the return of Guan Hao and the interference of Gong Jian's mother. The question remains whether a new marriage is on the horizon or if familial and friendship bonds will be irreparably damaged.

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.

A tale of Tian Chuang Hua, the daughter-in-law of the Ma family, who faces numerous challenges in her life but finds the strength to assist her village. Tian Chuang Hua, known for her devotion as a wife and daughter-in-law, had hoped for her husband to return for the new year, only to be presented with divorce papers instead. Along with her daughter, they encounter their own difficulties, including debt collectors at their door. Amidst these struggles, she receives the devastating news of her father's passing but remains committed to her in-laws. Tian Chuang Hua's compassion is acknowledged when her parents-in-law choose her over their own son. Despite the hardships, she tackles her issues one by one and embarks on a journey to promote tourism in the village. In a stroke of luck, she uncovers the precious art of paper-cutting skills possessed by her mother-in-law.

Xiang Zhen, Qian Bei Bei, Jin Xiao Ni, Ding Lan, and Yu Hui are five young women who meet at university and gradually discover the challenges of life, including struggles with finding employment and love. Xiang Zhen's partner goes missing, Qian Bei Bei's boyfriend confines her, Jin Xiao Ni's boyfriend is revealed to be unfaithful, Ding Lan's parents disapprove of her partner, and Yu Hui faces financial ruin after her business fails. Each of them grapples with various difficulties in both their professional and romantic lives.

Three individuals are brought together unexpectedly when a young child enters their lives, adding to the chaos they are already facing. Gao Han, a caring and devoted man, has recently lost a custody battle with his ex-wife over their daughter. Adding to his troubles, his ex-girlfriend Guan Ling Ling, who passed away in a car accident, has entrusted her son to his care. Gao Han, along with his two roommates Wang Dong Yang and YuBo, find themselves unexpectedly caring for the young child, Du Du. Along with the challenges of looking after Du Du, they also have to navigate the presence of Du Du's aunt, Guan Shan Shan. As they all work together to raise Du Du, they must also confront the question of the child's paternity. This leads to a custody battle, complicated further by the return of Han's ex-wife, Liu Min. Amidst all this, feelings begin to develop between Han and Shan Shan, while Yu Bo also finds himself falling for Shan Shan. With the uncle's gentle nature and the cool guy's charm, Shan Shan must ultimately follow her heart and make a choice between the two men she loves.

A tale revolves around five young individuals - Xu Weibiao, Lin Zhihua, Zhang Peng, Wang Lei, and Yu Nan - who came of age in Beijing during the 1980s. As time passed, their paths diverged as they held conflicting beliefs. (Baidu)

Ten episodes featuring a consistent cast, each presenting a unique storyline centered around various types of love relationships such as heterosexual, familial, LGBTQ+, and platonic.

In the upcoming series, "Love" will be a central theme that deeply impacts the emotions of the Imai family and their close companions