Asian dramas like
Saba Doru

Unexpected and overwhelming love captures our hearts and pulls us into a whirlwind of passion, leaving us no choice but to surrender. This captivating story delves into the forbidden romance between a teacher and a student. Chae Won and Kwan Woo cross paths for the first time at a flower festival in a quaint seaside village. They are instantly drawn to each other, unaware that Chae Won is actually Kwan Woo's high school teacher. Their second encounter takes place in the classroom, where they both come to terms with the reality of their situation, feeling bewildered and embarrassed. As their love story unfolds, it intertwines with Kwan Woo's touching journey to success, evoking strong emotions in the audience.

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.

Mitamura Yukio serves as the creator and leader of a fast-growing fashion company. Despite its success, the company has been criticized for exploiting its workers. Mitamura prioritizes the company's profits and has been pushing his employees to work long hours, believing that hard work is necessary for success. He does not see any issue with the demanding work environment and believes it is justified. While delegating tasks to his subordinates, Mitamura enrolls in a university to study company management. It is there that he meets Akiyama Kyoko, a new lecturer, with whom he clashes due to their differing backgrounds and perspectives. He also encounters the "pressure-free generation," a group of young individuals whom he initially looks down upon. However, through interactions with these students, Mitamura finds inspiration and gains new insights. Meanwhile, there is a growing movement within his company to remove him from his position as it becomes apparent to Mitamura that his company is indeed exploiting its employees, leading to a power struggle within the organization.

The plot follows three regular girls named Asahi, Nami, and Hinata as they pursue their dream of becoming idols. Despite facing multiple rejections in auditions, their lives take a turn when they stumble upon a major crime and are forced to escape from the criminals. Luckily, they are rescued by a producer who offers them a chance to debut as idols, but under the condition that they disguise themselves as boys and keep their true identities hidden.

Discontented elementary school educators seek to inject some excitement into their lives! With three decades left until retirement, they find it hard to envision spending that time in monotony. Despite having a secure job, these teachers are weary of their routine and decide to initiate some uplifting changes. A music instructor, once a passionate hip-hop performer, partners with a temporarily hired English teacher who embraces spontaneity, and together they launch a hip-hop class. These two adults, who have never fully pursued their aspirations, are now tasked with showing children what it truly means to be ‘cool.’ Are you prepared to make your life more vibrant? (JTBC)

A drama centered around the journey of idol growth showcases performers who were once well-known idols, effectively illustrating how girls from Japan and Korea face challenges as they aspire to debut in a K-pop idol group.

Making changes in both personal and professional life requires a great deal of bravery. Luo Xiao Fei is employed as a television commercial director under the supervision of Xiao Ye Shi, who is not only the owner of the advertising agency but also her romantic partner of half a decade. Despite feeling unsatisfied and overlooked in her long-standing relationship with Ye Shi, Xiao Fei struggles to shake things up in her life that could potentially affect her career. When she encounters An Qing Hui, a recent college graduate with a background in design, will he inspire Xiao Fei to listen to her heart and make bold choices?

Yoruno Sakura, a newcomer teacher at a part-time high school, has faced multiple challenges in her past as the owner of a bar. Despite her continuous struggles and misfortunes, she remains determined and positive. While she may come across as overly friendly, insensitive, disorganized, and careless, she possesses a kind heart and a knack for recognizing and supporting individuals with aspirations. At 38 years old, she interacts with students of different ages who share similar circumstances, ultimately making a positive impact on their lives and experiencing her own transformation.

Urumi Shizuka unexpectedly found herself working as a high school teacher to avoid being jobless

Fat Tin, a wealthy man's daughter in the Philippines, is concerned about her future due to her weight. Her father tries to arrange a marriage for her with Mak Ka Fai, but Fat Tin is uninterested and flees to Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, she faces criticism for her weight from Tai Hei, a successful designer. Despite their differences, they eventually grow closer due to unexpected events in the Philippines.

In "Love of the Heavens," the story revolves around a romance between a woman in her forties and men in their twenties. Itsuki Hanyu, a 41-year-old housewife, runs a used bookstore and is stuck in a troubled marriage, with her 14-year-old daughter being the only reason it hasn't fallen apart. One day, Itsuki's dormant desires are awakened when she catches Shida Motoharu trying to steal an erotic novel from her shop. Fueled by her newfound desires, Itsuki embarks on a love affair with the young man. Later on, she encounters Kunimoto Satoshi/Komato Shio, who bears a striking resemblance to a past love and brings back dark secrets from the past.

He may appear as a popular and attractive celebrity on the surface, the top choice for women in Japan. In reality, he is a sensitive and kind-hearted individual. Yuichiro Sakuraba is making a comeback! Despite his status as a major star, Yuichiro Sakuraba is a sentimental person who easily gets emotional. He has now fallen in love with Minami Ishihara, an older woman with a child from a previous marriage and a large family of only female members. Despite facing various challenges, Yuichiro and Minami eventually tie the knot. Yuichiro must now navigate between his roles as a celebrity and a husband in his new extended family.

Murai is a quiet high school student who goes unnoticed with his long hair and unique walk. Despite not fitting traditional beauty standards, he musters up the courage to confess his feelings to Tanaka, a devoted gamer who only has eyes for her virtual characters. Unfortunately, Tanaka turns him down. The next day, Murai returns to school with a complete transformation - a new haircut and hair color, mimicking Tanaka's favorite character. Determined to win her over, Murai will go to great lengths to capture her attention and affection. (mangaupdates)

A tale of an unsuccessful idol group's final adventure as they strive to avoid breaking up

Seok Ho is a manager who achieves notable success with a highly popular idol group. He aspires for even greater accomplishments as he plans to establish his own label with his group, but ultimately faces significant setbacks. In his quest to reclaim his position at the top, he resorts to deceit and crosses paths with Ha Neul, who abandoned his aspirations of becoming a singer after the tragic loss of his parents. Wrongly accused of a crime, Ha Neul finds himself in a deep state of hopelessness when he encounters Seok Ho. Meanwhile, Seok Ho raises suspicions in Ha Neul's sister, Geu Rin. To safeguard her younger brother, Geu Rin pauses her university studies to take on multiple part-time jobs. However, witnessing the uplift in her brother's spirits after meeting Seok Ho fuels her determination to become his manager as he embarks on an inspiring endeavor, the Entertainers.

The drama takes place behind the scenes of the broadcasting sector. It centers on the vibrant lives and careers of individuals working within the entertainment division of a television network. Ra Jun Mo, a seasoned producer with a decade of experience in variety shows, is noted for his extensive list of credits yet lacks a standout program to claim as his own. Tak Ye Jin, a music show producer also with ten years of experience, began her journey as an innocent and intelligent newcomer, but the cutthroat competition has transformed her into a sharp-tongued and proud woman, unafraid to speak her mind even in front of superiors. Baek Sung Chan, a rookie producer in the variety show arena, abandons a promising future as a prosecutor to pursue a career in broadcasting out of love. Cindy, a top celebrity singer with a diva-like demeanor, started her journey as a trainee at the age of 13 and has spent a decade in the industry. She is often referred to as the "ice princess" due to her reluctance to form deep connections, a result of past betrayals that have led her to keep others at a distance. The narrative conveys profound themes surrounding friendship, family, fame, support, bullying, and betrayal within the broadcasting world.

A spirited 35-year-old homemaker, Yoon Gae Hwa, becomes the manager of the temperamental superstar Sung Min Woo to gather sufficient funds to reclaim custody of her child from her former husband. Comedic chaos and romantic misadventures arise when they end up in an uncomfortable living arrangement, as Min Woo hires Gae Hwa to look after his daughter, Ye Eun.

A tough boss with a tsundere attitude crosses paths with a remarkably strong young woman who becomes an assistant in the entertainment industry. Accustomed to browsing cat videos online daily, they bond over their shared love for felines. Former athlete Zhou Tian is compelled to pause her career due to an old injury resurfacing. By chance, she enters the entertainment world and secures a job as an assistant. Subsequently, Zhou Tian inadvertently befriends a stranger online due to their mutual affection for cats. They gradually open up to each other, sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions. To Zhou Tian's surprise, the mysterious 'netizen' she connected with turns out to be the stoic CEO Ji Chen.

The tale of three women with contrasting personalities who unexpectedly become friends and support each other through life's challenges, discovering their self-worth along the way. Kang Zi You, who recently returned to China from the United States, works as a sales executive director at an aesthetic medical clinic owned by her close friend Lin Qian Yu. Despite excelling in her career, Kang Zi You struggles with personal organization and relies on her daughter Kang Ni for support. Kang Ni, a skilled homemaker with a passion for cooking and table setting, cares for her mother while longing for independence. The arrival of a new doctor, Nie Yun Ze, disrupts the women's routine but also brings Kang Zi You and Nie Yun Ze closer despite their differences. Meanwhile, Lin Qian Yu's marital problems compel Kang Zi You to work with her ex-husband's wife, Meng Yu Shan, to find a solution.

Due to internal conflicts at work, Ga Jai Choi, a thriving business executive, is appointed as the principal of a struggling school. The school, known as the Samshui Fisherman and Agricultural Workers Union Yin Liang Can Y n Endowment Yin Ding Bao Memorial School-WDPS, is facing the threat of being shut down by the education board due to its poor performance and reputation. The school was established in memory of tycoon Yin Guo Rong by his parents, who are determined to save it from closure. Ga Jai Choi is urged by his competitors to take on the role of headmaster, despite his reluctance to leave his corporate career. Although Ga Jai Choi initially aims to accelerate the school's downfall, he is surprised to see the teachers rallying to protect their jobs in response to his proposed changes. The arrival of passionate young teacher Lam Ying Yun and dedicated educator Wong Yerk Se further complicates Ga's plans. As Lam and Wong inspire their students to strive for success, Ga begins to question his motives and gradually becomes invested in the school's future. Despite Ga's efforts to undermine the school, his policies inadvertently lead to improvements in academic performance and a sense of unity among students, parents, and staff. However, the school's survival remains uncertain. Ga ultimately realizes his genuine care for the school and its students, joining the community in a final plea to prevent its closure.

The storyline will focus on the romantic experiences of a vibrant female college student in her twenties, who experiences love at first sight for an older student, prompting her to become involved in a clandestine organization.

This is a tale revolving around love and relationships that can lead anyone down a path of defeat. It will be a romantic comedy showcasing people's inherent vulnerabilities and the array of exhilarating moments that accompany different types of love. The realistic portrayal of individuals at their weakest points will be balanced with humor and compassion that transcends discomfort. Seo Min Gi is a freshman in college studying Korean literature. He is cautious, contemplative, and occasionally makes daring decisions. At 20 years old, his actions often result in a series of blunders and missteps. Nevertheless, due to his introspective nature and idealistic character, he always engages in self-reflection. He is a modest outsider whose sole desire is to socialize with his friends and indulge in gaming at internet cafes.

A woman in her forties working as a beautician catches the eye of a young man in his early twenties who works a regular job and soon they develop romantic feelings for each other.

In order to honor her deceased father's wishes, BIN KWAI WOR established a unique coffee shop where she crossed paths with BAO CHI TAI, known as "Tai Chi Bao" (Raisin Bread). TAI, a single father with an 8-year-old son, dreams of becoming the coffee king of Hong Kong. As TAI learned the art of latte-making from WOR, their feelings for each other blossomed, despite facing numerous obstacles. The biggest challenge they faced was overcoming the disapproval of WOR's two mothers, her biological mother MA SZE NGA and stepmother SO MEI, who were against their relationship. With so many hurdles to overcome, how will TAI and WOR navigate their love story and brew a strong and fragrant cup of coffee together?

Sakura follows the journey of Matsushita Sakura, a fourth-generation Japanese American woman from Hawaii, who relocates to a quaint town in Gifu, Japan to work as a language teacher for middle school students

In Hong Kong, Yamada Kenta is currently in charge of a documentary project, accompanied by his assistant Hirakawa Aya, as they embark on a mission to track down Japanese talent Elie. However, their plans are disrupted when Elie is unexpectedly taken away by a local man named Daniel. Amidst the confusion, Kenta crosses paths with Maki, a Japanese woman who had traveled to Hong Kong to meet the person she had been corresponding with on a matchmaking website. Interestingly, they have never met face-to-face before. It turns out that Maki lacks confidence and had been using Elie's photos as her own, which led Daniel to mistake Elie for the person he was supposed to meet. Eventually, Daniel realizes his mistake and the five strangers find themselves brought together by a series of misunderstandings that will result in unforeseen consequences.

High school educator Onodera Machi, aged 27, assesses romantic relationships based on social status and income, with hopes of securing a stable partnership. Her perspective changes when new student Chiba Yuto, who strongly resembles her first love Yuichi, enrolls in her class. Despite their age difference, Machi feels a strong attraction towards him. The situation becomes more complex when she encounters Yuichi again at a social gathering. Caught between the pull of the younger Chiba brother and the memories of her past romance, Machi finds herself in an enthralling love triangle involving conflicting emotions of "innate love" and "promised love."

Kazuko, a skilled yet unliked manager in the entertainment industry, faces challenges in mentoring Ryo, a fresh male actor she discovered, to reach stardom. Initially lacking drive, Ryo starts to appreciate the joys of performing. As they develop a close friendship, their relationship evolves into a romantic one over time.

In 1977, the students of Wafang School were informed that their class would be disbanded due to the teacher's limitations. This caused uproar among the students, leading parents to pressure the principal to find a solution. Principal Wang sought help from the commune, but they were preoccupied with the return of educated youths and could not provide a teacher for Wafang School. Eventually, Principal Wang and Brigade Secretary Jiao enlisted the help of the last remaining female educated youth in the county who had not yet returned to the city. This individual, Fang Ge, arrived at Wafang School and made a significant impact on the students' lives, led by Jiao Building, Wu Zina, and San Fatty.

The plot of this series revolves around the television industry in Hong Kong during the 1980s, focusing on individuals who started as TV artists during that period and eventually rose to become prominent figures in the future of Hong Kong television

Asakura Harumi, a music teacher in high school, and Kyoji Hiyama, a manager at a cabaret, initially clashed due to their differing circumstances. However, they eventually found themselves drawn to each other and fell in love. Unbeknownst to them at the time, they were actually half-siblings. Upon learning the truth, Kyoji lashed out in anger and despair, while Harumi sought to be closer to him. Despite the initial harmony, Kyoji's past sins began to affect Harumi's mental health. Unaware of the true extent of the harm he had caused, Kyoji remained by her side as her condition worsened.

Takako Meguro has always dreamed of getting married and leaving her job. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes a teacher at a night school. Initially, she lacks motivation and doesn't take her job seriously. But she soon realizes that teaching at night school is more challenging than she anticipated. The students are a mix of high-school dropouts, businessmen, cabaret girls, and other unique individuals. Many of them are older than Takako, and she even discovers that one of her former elementary school classmates is among the students. Adjusting to her new schedule of working at night and sleeping during the day, Takako finds herself unable to attend social events to meet potential partners. Despite feeling resigned to this new way of life, a particular incident sparks a fire within Takako, leading to a passionate outburst towards her students.

A fictional school known as Tokyo Metropolitan Water Exchange Academy focuses on providing education in water trade, specifically in the nighttime entertainment industry. Ishiwata Naoki, currently job hunting, lands a teaching position at this unique school.

After their father passed away and their company went bankrupt, four brothers who had been living a luxurious life had to quickly adjust to their new circumstances.

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.

A collection of hopeful young musicians dream of achieving fame as they navigate through the challenges of friendship, love, and school life. (Netflix)

Yao Lan, a serious and mature woman of 33, falls deeply in love with the lively and romantic Lu Xiao Bei, who is nine years her junior. Can they navigate the obstacles in their path and find happiness together? (Viki)

The plot centers on Motohashi Kumiko, a employee at an advertising firm who unexpectedly becomes the owner of a host club called "MAJEST" in Kabukicho following her uncle's passing

Aida Mai is a female english teacher who has been teaching at a private all-girls high school for three years. When the school faces a decrease in enrollment, it makes the decision to enroll its first male students. Initially feeling overwhelmed, the five freshmen are welcomed by Mai who helps them adjust by forming a social dance club and inviting five girls to join. This group of ten students becomes the central focus of the drama, which revolves around themes of love and adolescence.

A 35-year-old former high-ranking corporate employee has taken on the role of principal at a private high school that is experiencing challenges with its management.

The narrative commences with the introduction of the main characters during their childhood. Luo Shan's father works as a driver for the Su family, who have a daughter named Sophie. Due to being abandoned by her mother and facing occasional abuse from her father, Luo Shan struggles with feelings of inadequacy and inferiority. Luo Shan envies Sophie, believing that she could be as happy if she had the same opportunities as her. Tragedy strikes when Luo Shan's father passes away in an accident, leading the Su family to take her in and rename her Susan. Sophie's mother instructs Sophie to treat Susan as her older sister and to keep Susan's adoption a secret. Despite Sophie's kind-hearted and easy-going nature, Susan takes advantage of her, aspiring to possess everything Sophie has. Susan's jealousy even extends to Sophie's close bond with Yuan Fang. (Two versions available: 23 episodes in China | 15 episodes in Taiwan)

In recent times, the definition of "homeless" has evolved. There are young individuals known as "net cafe refugees" who lack both employment and a permanent residence, instead moving between internet cafes. One such refugee is Chisato, a 20-year-old woman who lost her mother early in life to illness. She spent her youth attempting to escape the significant debt left by her father, facing nightly confrontations with debt collectors. Chisato's perspective on "family" shifted after encountering Shinzo, a man from a wealthy family dating back to the Edo period. Shinzo had adopted six handsome sons in the hopes of finding a successor, but each son possessed peculiar traits. Shinzo offered to eliminate Chisato's debt in exchange for marriage and becoming the mother of his sons. However, living with these six men under one roof would prove challenging.

Nitta Masaki embarks on a new position as a music instructor at a high school that is in turmoil due to the mysterious disappearance of the previous music teacher. During his initial evening at the school, he encounters his student Izumi Sae in the music room, and their connection deepens as they get involved in the investigation. While Nitta Masaki starts to develop emotions for her, he struggles to admit them, whereas Izumi Sae is confident in her affection for him. They go their separate ways. Years later, they cross paths again, but Nitta Masaki is now married, complicating their emotions.

Yoshizawa Miku is an active member of the entertainment team at the local television network "P-Tele"

The plot centers on Ryo, who enters into a secret marriage with an older single mother. He must keep their union hidden to protect his career as an idol. (Aramatheydidnt.livejournal.com)

Kozue Ogawa has been married to Hideo for seven years and works as a housewife. Despite not having children, she lives with her parents at their flower shop, making each day lively. While content with her life and husband, she occasionally questions if it's fulfilling enough. To address this doubt, Kozue takes on a part-time job in the editing department of a magazine she previously worked for, where her former colleague is now the editor-in-chief. One rainy day, Kozue encounters a young man named Takuma Fukazawa, a high school student and dance teacher. As they practice in the dance studio together, Kozue feels a sense of unexpected closeness that leaves her conflicted. Though she eventually pushes Takuma away and runs home, the feeling in her chest lingers, leaving her pondering its significance.

Shiratama Sayako has faced many challenges in her life. Despite her childhood dream of becoming an architect, she struggled to pass her university entrance exams. Now at 30 years old, she works in a different field. One day, she meets a young university student named Ogasawara Taku. After sharing her dream with him, he encourages her to pursue it once more. Inspired by his words, she decides to study hard and eventually gets accepted into a university. It is there that she reunites with Ogasawara Taku, who is a senior in the architecture department.

Harumi Junko was a top student in middle and high school, but she faced a setback when she couldn't get into Tokyo University

Min Yeong is employed as a dating agent, and although her profession demands that she pairs clients according to their social statuses, she holds the belief that love should be free of limitations

The plot of this television show explores the difficulties faced by couples who are in a long-distance relationship. Fang Zuo, a professor who has recently returned from studying in England, encounters Shi Nan, a 29-year-old woman who defies traditional gender norms. As they spend more time together, Fang Zuo discovers that Shi Nan was the one who rescued him from a car accident in the past. Over time, their relationship evolves from being adversaries to becoming romantic partners. (CdramaBase)