Asian dramas like
Secret Love Affair

Tatsuya, a troubled college student, used to be a kind person but now carries a heavy grudge, the reason for which remains a mystery. This grudge is likely related to his father and the poverty he faces. Strangely, he has befriended the wealthiest student in school, whom he is secretly planning to harm. He feels compelled to vandalize the rich student's new car and pursue his fiance. The plot thickens when Tatsuya meets a young composer and pianist who has a limp from a past car accident. Unbeknownst to him, she is also wealthy. Living in a restrictive home with a disapproving pianist mother, the obedient young woman starts to change after encountering Tatsuya, who, in turn, appears to rediscover his compassion through their interactions.

Wako, a woman in her thirties, finds herself drawn to a high school student named Yumeaki, even though she is unhappy with her current relationship. This story is based on the manga "Koi no Tsuki" by Nitta Akira. (Netflix)

The youngest partner at one of the nation's most esteemed law firms, Oh Soo Jae has already demonstrated her potential to become one of the top lawyers in the country. Motivated by her strong beliefs and a fierce drive to succeed, Soo Jae is well on her way to becoming one of the top attorneys at TK Law Firm. However, when a case takes an unexpected turn, Soo Jae faces setbacks and is demoted at work, being assigned to teach at a local law school. Despite her efforts to adjust to her new role, the demotion still stings. Meeting Gong Chan, a university student whose life intersects with Soo Jae's, helps ease the pain. Gong Chan, with a kind heart and growing affection for Soo Jae, supports her as she tries to regain her position at the firm. Will Soo Jae's determination and Gong Chan's support be enough to restore her standing, or will she continue to face obstacles from those in power?

In the story "Muse no Kagami," Rino Sashihara portrays a regular girl from a rural area without any remarkable attributes. Her life changes when she meets Okita Ryu, a once-popular actor, who recognizes her talent for quickly memorizing lines and her hidden acting skills. Impressed by her abilities, he guides her towards pursuing a career in acting.

December Fever narrates the perilous romance between a married woman and a man on the brink of death. The plot features a woman who finds herself drawn to another man, along with the young suitor attempting to win her over, and the individuals pursuing them. The story explores themes of hypocrisy and double standards, highlighting those who make sacrifices for their families. Additionally, it delves into the relationship between a father and his ailing son, as well as the tensions involving their mothers-in-law. With its engaging and comedic characters, the narrative reflects the nuances of everyday life. (DramaWiki)

The series centers on Choi Suk Bong, a man convinced that he is the offspring of a wealthy father and the heir to a chaebol conglomerate. He encounters Lee Shin Mi, who is indeed a chaebol heir but displays none of the typical traits associated with that status, living a life marked by thriftiness and frugality. Despite their initial clash, she assists him as he endeavors to achieve his ambition of acquiring riches.

Geum Hee has spent a decade married to Joon Ho, standing by him as he pursued his goal of becoming a successful plastic surgeon

What occurs when a seemingly mismatched man and woman find themselves embroiled in a complex romantic tale? Cha Soo Hyun, the daughter of a politician, leads a life where she lacks the freedom to forge her own destiny

During his college years, Joon Hee developed feelings for Eun Young, a senior student. However, Eun Young suddenly disappears from his life. Joon Hee eventually decides to further his studies in Italy, focusing on the arts. He later becomes a professor in the sculpture department and meets Hee Soo, a student in his class. They grow close and develop a strong bond, even after Joon Hee gets married. Their love for each other remains strong, leading to a secret affair.

Three accomplished women featured on a radio program all share the commonality of being in happy marriages

The narrative revolves around the romantic relationship between Yoon Ju, a woman aged 32, and Dong Guk, a man aged 27. Despite facing disapproval from their families due to the 5-year age gap, a bigger issue arises regarding the possibility of Yoon Ju being Dong Guk's biological half-sister.

Maeng Sun Yi dedicated her childhood and adolescence to caring for her father, who turned to heavy drinking after her mother left them when she was just 10, along with her two younger siblings. She even sacrificed her own education to work hard and pay for her siblings' schooling. Sun Yi is married to Ban Sung Moon, who is five years her junior, and they have two daughters together. Her life is filled with ongoing challenges, yet she perceives this as her version of "happiness." Eventually, her husband falls for a beautiful divorced woman and requests a divorce from Sun Yi. Meanwhile, her younger sister, Maeng Young Yi, has become a successful professional and is in a relationship with her first love, Lee Jung Do, who is now married to someone else and had ended their relationship in the past to focus on his career. Additionally, Sun Yi's younger brother, Chul Soo, achieves his doctorate in the United States and chooses to settle there, neglecting his duty to care for their father. To complicate matters further, Sun Yi receives a cancer diagnosis, which she views as akin to a death sentence. After discovering her illness, her husband begins to introspect and reveals to her the true essence of marital love.

Lee Gwang Jae is a wealthy young man who finds himself burdened with a significant amount of debt and faces challenges in repaying it to preserve his father's honor. Alongside him is Kim Young Ha, a fearless girl who wholeheartedly stands by his side. This television series demonstrates that life is worthwhile as long as one possesses bravery and genuine love, following the journey of a spoiled rich kid and a naive girl as they work their way up from humble beginnings. (MBC)

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.

A female teacher, who was new to the school, found herself the victim of bullying from a gifted troublemaker student. However, their clashes took a romantic turn, leading to a secretive affair where emotions were toyed with carelessly.

Gloria is a gripping narrative about individuals who are passionately committed to overcoming the hardships of their lives, particularly highlighting the story of Na Jin Jin, a nightclub singer who confronts the challenges of her profession to care for her older sister, Jin Joo, who has a mental disability. She draws immense strength and support from her devoted childhood friend, Ha Dong Ah, a small-time gangster with a kind heart. Additionally, Jin Jin encounters a potential romantic interest in Lee Kang Suk, the head of Double Sharp Entertainment, who grapples with his own struggles as the illegitimate child of a businessman.

During the political turmoil in South Korea in the 1980s, Lee Du Hak and Choi Cheol Ung, two high school buddies, form a close bond with O Jeong Sin, a new student from Seoul

Two decades ago, Yoon Ji Soo and Han Jae Hyun experienced a profound romance during their university years. Ji Soo, a first-year student at a music college, unexpectedly caught the attention of Jae Hyun, a determined and popular law student. Their initial romance was a captivating whirlwind, but, like many youthful infatuations, it eventually diminished. Now in their forties, Ji Soo is a single mother striving to make a living, while Jae Hyun has become a prosperous businessman driven by ambition and status. He is quite different from the passionate young man Ji Soo once knew. However, destiny brings them back together, and Ji Soo recognizes him immediately. With a renewed opportunity for love, they must navigate the considerable gap of years and life experiences that lie between them. Will they be able to reignite a spark that once burned so fiercely?

Kyoichi Suzuki is a typical junior college student who is content with studying architecture at a university that is not considered top-tier. He has moved out of his family home and now resides in a rundown apartment in Tokyo. However, his neighbors in the building are quite unusual and often bother Kyoichi. One neighbor asks for money whenever Kyoichi receives his paycheck, while another neighbor who works at a nightclub frequently calls Kyoichi to pick her up when she is intoxicated. Despite these disruptions, Kyoichi is satisfied with his ordinary life until he encounters a mysterious girl one day. After returning from his job as a nighttime security guard, Kyoichi discovers an unknown girl sleeping in his bed. Although she is older than him and attractive, she vanishes when he leaves the room briefly. Confused and unsure if it was real or a hallucination, Kyoichi later realizes that his Chinese noodles have gone missing from his grocery bag. This is how Kyoichi meets Surumi Kataoka, who ends up staying in his room. Surumi reveals that she was dumped by a man in a neighboring apartment for another woman and is waiting to confront the new girlfriend. Despite her charming demeanor, Surumi appears sad at times, leaving Kyoichi puzzled about her true intentions. As he adjusts to sharing his room with Surumi, he begins to wonder if this situation will last forever until one day, Surumi suddenly disappears, leaving Kyoichi with unanswered questions.

Tsuyuko Hoshino is employed as a nurse and dreams of pursuing a career as a violinist. She went through a divorce a couple of years ago when her former husband left her for a colleague. Tsuyuko now resides with her teenage daughter Akari Hoshino, who suffers from a heart condition. One day, Tsuyuko encounters Santa Fuyuno, a high school music teacher, at a local café where he is showcasing his flute skills. She is captivated by him, despite being aware of his engagement to Hanako Tonaka and their professional relationship at the same school. On the other hand, Akari, who struggles to trust others due to her father's abandonment, lacks friends at school. However, her homeroom teacher Santa Fuyuno shows care and concern for her, leading to romantic feelings developing between the two.

Yeo Jin visits Eun Woo, who is dressed in a prison outfit, tears streaming down her face as she confesses her love for him. Ji Heon then assists Yeo Jin in standing up. One year prior, Yeo Jin led a typical life as a devoted wife alongside her husband, Ji Heon, an employee at an orthopedic university hospital, and her boisterous, irritable mother-in-law, Mrs. Shim. Meanwhile, Eun Seo pays a visit to her son, Min Hyung, who is in the hospital, bringing him some encouragement.

Choi Jung Soo was abandoned in an orphanage by his father, who could no longer care for him after his wife left for another man. Although he had a promising future in the medical field, the tuition fees were beyond his means. In a state of hopelessness, he journeyed to the remote island where his father had been raised, hoping to find him there. He ended up spending seven years on the island, working under the mentorship of its sole physician, and became quite proficient in medicine. However, when he treated Yoon Jung Won, who was suffering from severe appendicitis, he was mistakenly recognized as a skilled doctor, complicating his life. Yoon Jung Won was the daughter of the proprietor of a prestigious hospital in Seoul, and as they began to develop feelings for one another, it became complicated by her engagement. Unable to resist his love for Jung Won, he started deceiving himself and those around him about his qualifications. The higher he climbed in his newfound status, the more devastating his fall became. The love he believed would provide him everything ultimately turned toxic. He lost everything except for the unwavering support of the woman who stood by him through it all. This story is inspired by the novel "Kumo no Kaidan" by Junichi Watanabe.

Since her childhood, Qing Ling was raised in a children's home. She is a compassionate, lively, and supportive young woman with an exceptional sense of smell. Because of her heightened sensitivity to scents, she began creating perfumes. Qing Ling's ambition is to develop a fragrance to give back to the orphanage and contribute to society. To achieve this goal, Qing Ling persevered through numerous challenges. Along her journey, she received assistance from Xu Qing Lun, Duan Tian Lang, Duan Yi Hua, and others. Additionally, she was able to locate and reconnect with her biological family during this period.

Go Eun Bi is studying medicine, yet she aspires to be a musical theater performer. Hong Jae Yi is an exceptionally skilled composer who finds himself caught in a romantic triangle with Go Eun Bi and Bae Kang Hee. Bae Kang Hee, a self-assured and proud musical star, exudes confidence in her abilities.

A shoe manufacturer in Taiwan will be caught in a dramatic feud within the industry due to the affection of Mu Dan, a young woman who sells vegetables at the local market. The company's master shoemaker, Huang Zheng Yi, has two apprentices - his son Huang Rong Can and an adopted son Liu Mu Cheng, whom he treats equally. However, when both brothers fall in love with Mu Dan, their relationship shatters and has long-lasting effects on the industry. The show originally aired with 80 episodes, each lasting 60 minutes. It was later rebroadcast with 40 episodes, each lasting 90 minutes.

Ayaka, a member of a prominent family, finds herself in an unhappy marriage with Mitsuo, the next in line to inherit a successful company. Upon learning of his affair with his late brother's wife, Kanako, Ayaka develops feelings for Kota, a married servant. The intricate love connections also involve their children, who are introduced in the latter part of the series.

The story revolves around Oh Eun Soo and Kim Bit Na, a former teacher and her student, who reunite years later after marrying siblings Yoon Soo Ho and Yoon Soo Hyun. Their families blend even further when their parents remarry, making them stepsisters.

Jang Mi Young was a content mother of two and happily married until she discovered that her husband was unfaithful. This revelation led to their divorce, resulting in her ex-husband and his new wife receiving custody of the children. Mi Young now faces the challenge of starting anew and revitalizing her career after spending years as a homemaker. Luckily, she has the support of a charming younger friend, Nam KyungSoo, who feels compassion for her situation and is eager to assist her in regaining her independence.

Ueda Itsuki, a 39-year-old pharmacist who is single, had finally secured her dream job, found love, and was content with her peaceful life. Unfortunately, her longtime boyfriend, Sawada Masakazu, decided to marry another woman. Despite loving Sawada deeply, Itsuki struggled to express her emotions truthfully and refrained from blaming him to avoid being disliked. One evening, after a work gathering, Itsuki encountered a younger man named Matsushige Eito on her way home, leading to them unexpectedly moving in together. Along the way, she also crossed paths with Sato Kohei, a medical representative who offered her comfort through his genuine love and kindness. Through these encounters, Itsuki began to understand the true essence of happiness and the significance of being cherished by someone, sparking a transformation within her.

A single mother, who has dedicated her life to pursuing wealth and recognition, suddenly learns that her time is limited. Throughout her life, she has overlooked her only son, and now she yearns to dedicate her remaining days to helping him find his family. Her goal is to reunite her son with his biological father, ensuring he grows up in a nurturing and stable environment, even though the father is already in a committed relationship with another woman. Mama is a poignant narrative that unfolds over six months, showcasing a mother’s love and sacrifices as told from the perspective of a mother facing terminal illness. (MBC)

Kojima Toru, a student in medical school, finds his routine life dull and monotonous. One day, he crosses paths with an architect named Asano Shifumi, who invites him to her workplace. They enjoy each other's company, sipping coffee and listening to music. While in her office, Toru notices a black and white photograph of the Tokyo Tower on the wall. He inquires about her thoughts on the iconic landmark, to which she responds that she finds it lonely. Toru cherishes the time spent with her and decides to delve deeper into getting to know her.

Shin Na Ra, a nearly thirty-year-old woman, eagerly awaits the return of her boyfriend, who has been away on a business trip for seven years. During their dinner together, he reveals that he has not only been unfaithful but has also developed feelings for another woman. Consequently, their relationship comes to an end. To cope with her heartbreak, Na Ra consumes a significant amount of alcohol and accidentally drops the ring her former boyfriend gifted her into the cup of a stranger. This stranger, In Jae, unknowingly consumes the drink containing the ring, leading both of them to end up in the hospital. To make ends meet, Na Ra pretends to be her 20-year-old sister to get a job as a cosmetic clerk at the store of Mi Rae, the woman her ex-boyfriend has fallen for. Coincidentally, In Jae also finds himself at the same shop. Thus begins their unexpected journey of romance, as In Jae is also infatuated with Mi Rae.

Yoon Ye Eun, who has been married for seven years, enjoys a successful business with her husband, and they are relocating to a new residence. However, she soon discovers that he has been unfaithful. Meanwhile, her sister, Yoon Sang Eun, is struggling with financial troubles and operates a piano school. Through a matchmaking service, she encounters a potential partner and contemplates the idea of a contractual marriage as a means to settle her debts. (SBS International)

Choi Soo Ah has dedicated the past twelve years to her role as an airline assistant purser while raising her daughter with her husband, who is a pilot. She feels fulfilled in her life; however, everything shifts when she encounters Seo Do Woo. Seo Do Woo, a cheerful and amiable part-time architecture teacher, is also married and has a daughter. He is satisfied with his life until an unexpected event introduces chaos and leads him to Choi Soo Ah. How will their lives intertwine as they come together?

Han Ji Sook is a single parent who becomes romantically involved with a man who is already married. This man, Kang Chul Soo, has a family with his spouse, Yoon Young Hee. When Young Hee discovers Chul Soo's affair, she begins to emotionally withdraw from him. Ultimately, they end their marriage, allowing Chul Soo to embark on a new journey with Ji Sook. However, fate takes a turn when Chul Soo gets into a car accident, resulting in the loss of all memories related to Ji Sook. Consequently, Young Hee must act as if she and Chul Soo are still together.

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

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

This book features 20 short stories depicting light-hearted romantic scenarios involving younger men and older women. (drama-circle.com)

A youth drama that illustrates the love triangle involving Seo Yeong, Jong Jin, and Ha Mi

Oh Ye Ji is an artist specializing in ceramics

In 2007, one of the top-selling novels was centered on the concept of the "red thread of fate" that binds together Mei and Atsushi, a young couple, as they navigate various challenges.

Joon Sang transfers to a different high school to find his real father. Yu Jin and Sang Hyuk are childhood friends, with Sang Hyuk wanting more while Yu Jin sees him as a sibling. During a school trip with other classmates Oh Chelin, Jin Suk, and Yong Kuk, Joon Sang rescues Yu Jin after an accident. They grow close and she helps thaw his icy demeanor. However, circumstances and destiny prevent their love from flourishing as he suddenly disappears. A decade later, the old friends reunite to celebrate Yu Jin and Sang Hyuk's upcoming wedding. Yu Jin, who still harbors feelings for Joon Sang, is surprised when Oh Chelin's new boyfriend bears a striking resemblance to him.

The narrative revolves around the struggles and development of 17-year-old Min Jae and Seo Yeon. Min Jae is a typical male student in high school, characterized by his quiet demeanor and somewhat sensitive nature. He performs well academically and tends to avoid conflicts. Seo Yeon is also a regular female student at the same high school, having previously attended the same middle school as Min Jae. Two years prior, her parents went through a divorce, and since that time, she has resided with her mother.

When a friend requested him to tutor his sister, he was surprised when she developed feelings for him and declared her affection, asking, "Teacher, would you consider dating me?" How will he turn down her confession, especially since she is determined and continues to pursue his heart?

The plot revolves around a devastating tragedy experienced by three charming women in their thirties, forties, and fifties, as well as the conflicts within marriages where partners are searching for genuine love.

Despite Goo Hae Ra's intelligence and beauty, she finds herself in a dire predicament due to her family's troubles. Her elder sister has tried to take her own life, and her father has died. The only means for her to break free from her circumstances is through financial resources. She turns to Tae In Joon for help. He is the younger son of a shoe manufacturer. Tae In Joon develops feelings for Goo Hae Ra.

An accidental car swap results in a life-changing turn for twins who were parted three decades earlier

The follow-up to the romantic tale "Love After School 2" will explore the bond between the characters from the initial season. Bang and Hong were devoted friends during their school days, and it wasn't until they grew up that they recognized their love for one another. They continue to enjoy each other's company while preparing for their forthcoming wedding. However, the couple will encounter unforeseen challenges that will truly test their emotions. Will they be able to overcome these obstacles?

A destiny that defies social norms, a passion that transcends ethical boundaries... At the age of thirty-one, Hyun Ji Seok is at the height of his life, yet he faces the grim reality of only three months left to live. He is wed to Park Jung Ran, but she is not the one who holds his heart. The sole desire of this man is to discover his true love and cherish the final 90 days he has left with her. Hyun Ji Seok was destined to encounter Mi Yeon, but fate had other plans, leading to heartbreak for both. In an unforeseen twist, it is revealed that Mi Yeon is actually his first cousin. They now find themselves fervently asking for 90 days to experience love one last time on this earth. Can their affection withstand the harsh truths imposed by society? (DramaWiki)

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