Asian dramas like
Secret Royal Inspector

In the sixth century CE, the Qi Kingdom, located in present-day Eastern China, is engulfed in conflict. Prince Xiao Yan Zhi, a gifted young military leader, is tasked with repelling invaders. Despite his brave efforts, his army is ambushed and defeated in a crucial battle. Seizing the opportunity, a cunning individual at the imperial court forces Pei Yan Zhi to step down from his position as army leader and installs a submissive candidate as ruler. Feeling betrayed, Pei Yan Zhi resolves to uncover the deception by going undercover as a commoner to conduct a covert investigation. Along the way, he crosses paths with Su Ci, a clever and resourceful young female detective, and they form a strong alliance. Joining forces with two other sharp-witted sleuths, they embark on a mission to uncover the extent of the plotting that has infiltrated the Imperial Palace.

Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty (during a tumultuous era marked by justification conflicts and espionage as the Ming transitioned to the Qing), the story unfolds during a time of heightened public demand for social change. This historical action-romance drama, structured in three arcs, depicts the lives of warriors and spies navigating the complexities of borders. It centers on Crown Prince So Hyeon, his loyal bodyguards Heo Seung Po and An Min Seo, and Park Dal Hyang, a yangban warrior who, despite his humble beginnings, possesses charm and good looks. Dal Hyang finds himself entangled in a love triangle involving Yoon Seo, the Crown Princess, and Crown Prince So Hyeon. Additionally, Jo Mi Ryeong, who was once the prince’s first love, transforms into his adversary, seeking vengeance against him. Loosely inspired by Alexandre Dumas's novel "The Three Musketeers."

The Hidden Team's confidential list was compromised by a traitor, sparking fear among its members. Shen Yi Feng, the leader of the team, was tasked by the emperor to uncover the mole. However, in order to protect the undercover agents still in the field, the stolen list needed to be recovered. Zhang Xiao Hua was assigned to gather intel and discovered that the list was in Nahezhai. She devised a plan to retrieve the list by pretending to be captured by Luo He, the second master, and offering herself to the leader of the Great Clan. Unbeknownst to her, the leader had a jealous wife, putting Zhang Xiao Hua's life in danger. In a twist of events, Luo He intervened and proposed to marry Zhang Xiao Hua, causing tension within the clan. Zhang Xiao Hua used this opportunity to instigate a conflict between the leader and Luo He in order to retrieve the list. However, Luo He saw through her plan, revealing his true intentions...

In his hometown, Lai Chi Kok holds the title of an official, but due to a hidden secret, he is forced to pretend to be incompetent and loses the support of the townspeople. To rectify the situation, he decides to don a mask and become a vigilante. Chung Wan and Chi Kok are betrothed, but she will only marry him if he proves himself as a capable official. Bo Lum, a figure from the martial arts world, seeks out Chi Kok for marriage as a result of a misunderstanding. Lok Fu, the close friend of Wan and Chi Kok, learns that he is afflicted with a serious illness.

After losing their parents, Samorn, Saijai, and Somsri found a new home with Nual, a modern-day Robin Hood who steals from the rich to support the less fortunate. Under her mentorship, they hone their fighting skills and become part of a group of female thieves standing against tyranny. The eldest sister, Somsri, weds Thong and starts an herbal medicine shop fueled by her passion and expertise in plants. Saijai, using her knowledge of the mystical, takes on the role of a shaman and has developed feelings for Phai. While her sisters enjoy their romantic lives, Samorn remains unattached until she secretly falls for Chok, the newcomer at Khok Iraeng, who is actually an undercover officer aiming to apprehend her and her sisters.

Ko Ae Rin is a single mother who, after the sudden death of her husband, becomes entangled in a conflict involving espionage

The events unfold during the decline of the Tang Dynasty. Li Jing Liu is a wealthy businessman, while Long Ao Yi is the head of the Longzhu Sect. A mysterious break-in rocks the city, setting the two powerful figures against each other. Long Ao Yi, the leader of the Lower Jiuliu, represents the lower class made up of performers, tailors, confectioners, matchmakers, thieves, burglars, and courtesans. On the other side is Li Qing Liu, a wealthy silk merchant and the influential leader of the Upper Jiuliu and the upper class. Despite their differences, the two must put aside their biases and shift from adversaries to allies as they navigate the streets of Chengdu, distant lands, and the royal court of the Tang Dynasty. Their journey takes them through battles in both the martial arts world and the business realm as they learn to work together.

Luo Ling Yu, a former noblewoman, journeys to Jianye with her sister in search of safety. Along the way, she saves a poor man named Lu Yun, but eventually compels him to leap into the water due to societal expectations. Unaware that the man she pushed overboard is the third young master of the Lu family, she attempts to gain his favor but faces constant obstacles. Despite observing her struggles and exposing her actions, he refuses to let her move on when she seeks solace in someone else.

"Dong Yi" is a historical series that tells the story of Dong Yi, who later became known as Choi Suk Bin. Initially, she served as a humble water maid in the royal palace. King Sok Jong chose Choi to be his concubine, and she later gave birth to Yeong Jo, his second son, who would go on to become the future king of Joseon. Following Yeong Jo's birth, Dong Yi would be elevated to the status of Suk Bin.

King Lee Heon of Joseon has mourned the loss of his wife for seven years, rejecting all attempts to find him a new spouse. This led to the issuance of the geumhonryung decree prohibiting unmarried women from marrying. In the midst of public disapproval, a woman named Ye So Rang, who claimed to have contact with the spirit of the late queen, caught the king's attention. After being caught for her deception, Ye So Rang feigned possession by the queen's spirit to avoid punishment. Her charade continued as she was brought before the king, pretending to communicate with his deceased wife in order to survive, spinning a web of lies.

An undercover royal investigator named Ra Yi Eon aspires for a peaceful existence but ends up revealing corruption during secretive assignments

The tale kicks off with the murder of Shen Yu Men, the head of the Wulin alliance. A humble chef named Meng Xiao Hua, who bears a striking resemblance to Shen, is forced to take on his identity. Despite lacking any martial arts abilities, Xiao Hua is plunged into a dangerous realm where trust is scarce. Additionally, he becomes entangled in the complicated relationships Shen had with numerous enchanting women.

Due to a mysterious family curse, Chan Mung Kit, hailing from a family of lawyers, is compelled by his mother to engage in frivolous activities and dedicate himself to managing a brothel despite his exceptional abilities. Following a careless error, he becomes entangled in a legal conflict, leading to his acquaintance with the articulate Lap Lan Ching Ching, who was actually the cause of the legal dispute, despite Kit having known her previously, along with the adversary Fong Tong Gang from the government. Kit harbors a deep animosity towards Ching and Gang after being falsely accused.

The story of The Butterfly Lovers is a heartbreaking tale of love. It starts with a wealthy girl who dresses as a boy to further her education at a school. At the academy, she forms a close bond with Liang Shan Bo. Despite studying together day and night, Shan Bo is too absorbed in his studies to notice her true identity. By the time they realize their feelings for one another, it is too late as Ying Tai is pressured into marrying someone else.

Lan Che, known for her sharp instincts on the streets, finds herself caught up in a criminal investigation that leads her to cross paths with Lou Ming Ye, the Chief Justice of the Dali Temple

This is the story of Zhu Tian Bao, the second son of Prince Jian Xing and younger brother of Zhu Tian Xiang. The tale begins with Yang Ruo Nan discovering that she is betrothed to Tian Xiang instead of Tian Bao, whom she desires to marry. Displeased, Tian Bao decides to leave the city. Despite knowing that Ruo Nan is secretly following him, he takes her to brothels to reveal his true nature. During this time, he crosses paths with Meng Xiao Die, who was brought to the city by her teacher, Du San Niang. Witnessing the bond between Tian Bao and Xiao Die, Ruo Nan decides to leave. In an attempt to clear up the misunderstanding, Tian Bao sets out to find Xiao Die but is ambushed on the way. He falls off a cliff, loses his memory, and is rescued by Xiao Die's father. Meanwhile, his brother is plotting to seize the throne, and there are misconceptions to be addressed with Xiao Die. Numerous trials lie ahead for the fortunate Zhu Tian Bao.

Taking place during the Ming dynasty, the show pushes the boundaries of the mystery genre with a comedic twist. This marks Chung Shu Kai's second venture into period dramas, following his work on Lan Ling Wang and various other tvb productions.

A prince from ancient times traveled across dimensions and arrived in the present day. His soul is bound to a creature, yet it doesn't mar his striking appearance. Nonetheless, he is unfazed by this, as his sole purpose is seeking revenge. The injustice done to him and his wife in this world fills them with rage. He detests those responsible and is eager to uncover the truth. As his fist clenches tightly, a woman enters the scene. Strikingly similar to his deceased wife, she begins to captivate him, leading to unexpected feelings blossoming within him. What strange twists and turns will unfold from here on...

A tale about Ji Yichuan, a talented young fighter from the Ji clan who faces numerous challenges but ultimately relies on his own abilities to protect his homeland. While tasked with guarding a creature, Ji Yichuan stumbles upon a sacred animal. Along his journey, he encounters Yu Chixue. Ji Yichuan must confront consequences for his mistake when the creature escapes. Yu Chixue sustains severe injuries while trying to help him capture the creature. With the assistance of Lan Lingyu, a student of the Medicine King, Ji Yichuan sets out on a quest with Yu Chixue and Lan Lingyu to find the legendary land. They come across Shao Yan Wang, who goes by the alias Wang Yan. Shao Yan Wang pretends to be helpful while manipulating events from behind the scenes. After facing numerous challenges, they uncover the mastermind.

The narrative follows the journey of Liu Tian, who is apprehended by the chief of the imperial city for his involvement in a magical case. Magician Ling Dong crosses paths with Liu Tian, leading to a master-apprentice relationship as they navigate through the intricate and mysterious case together. As they journey together, a hidden love blossoms between them. (Tencent Video - Mini Drama Youtube account)

This drama offers a unique take on the famous classic tale of The Legend of Chun Hyang. The central question posed in this narrative is: what if Lee Mong Ryong's true affection is directed toward Hyang Dan instead of Chun Hyang? Viewers can expect a fresh comedic approach from this production. (DramaWiki)

Yue Hong, the second daughter of the Du family, is known for her beauty, intelligence, and singing abilities. She aspires to marry a top scholar and is willing to showcase her talents at Zuixiangfang in hopes of attracting the attention of such a man. Many talented and romantic suitors vie for her hand, but Yue Hong is determined to only marry the number one scholar. Liu Shi Jie, a gifted scholar proficient in various arts, is capable of achieving the top scholar title. However, he is haughty and prefers a simple life away from the limelight. Despite their contrasting personalities and ambitions, Yue Hong manages to ensnare Liu Shi Jie into marrying her. In their marriage, Yue Hong employs various tactics to push Shi Jie into pursuing his scholarly aspirations, leading to a tumultuous relationship filled with challenges.

Four people named Yuan Mo, A Shu, Wang Kun Wu, and Yu Chi Hua set out on a quest for their country and righteousness

The plot unfolds in Republican Shanghai, where four individuals from diverse backgrounds unite to delve into the secretive realm of Qianmen Jianghu and unravel enigmatic cases. Su Zi Quan, a sharp-witted individual who boasts of being the top detective globally, possesses a remarkable memory but cannot recollect his early years. His weakness lies in his allergic reactions to women, causing him to sneeze upon physical contact with them. Tang Dai Yun, a benevolent yet headstrong wealthy young woman, crosses paths with Zi Quan while searching for her missing brother. Accompanying them are Chen Yi Ming, the stoic butler of the Tang family with exceptional combat skills and a soft spot for Dai Yun, and Lu Zi Xiao, Zi Quan's childhood companion and the only woman he is not allergic to.

The strong-willed female outlaw Bai Yun Feng, along with Chen Da Wan and her siblings, tried unsuccessfully to steal the birthday present from General Hu Shou intended for Shang Shu Hu Bu. They were apprehended by General Huang Fu, who presented Bai Yun Feng with a choice: face execution or marry his second son, Huang Fu Yao, using the alias Lu Wan'er. Huang Fu Yao, the arranged spouse, then began an exciting adventure of romantic love...

A royal proclamation mandates an engagement between a princess and a general who are unfamiliar with each other

Taking place in the Joseon Dynasty, the plot revolves around twins born to the Crown Princess Consort, who decides to have the daughter killed based on superstition. In order to protect her, the infant girl is sent away secretly. Many years later, Dam I, the twin sister, comes back to the palace, this time as a servant. Following the mistaken death of her brother Lee Hwi, their mother convinces Dam I to take on his identity. While keeping her distance from others, Dam I starts to develop romantic feelings for Jung Ji Un, her first love and later her tutor from a prestigious family.

This is the story of Luo Yun Xi, a private cartographer, and Jiang Chao Xi, the wealthy heir of Cang Yue City. Luo's family was falsely accused of possessing a powerful phoenix energy, leading to their downfall and leaving behind Luo Yun Xi, their daughter who was born with a deadly poison. Eight years later, she becomes a renowned cartographer in Cang Yue City, selling maps and drawings to make a living. When she discovers that Jiang Chao Xi is the one responsible for her family's tragedy, she vows to assassinate him before her time runs out. Meanwhile, Jian Jia Lane, a place dear to her heart, is set to be demolished. To help the residents find new homes, Luo Yun Xi devises a city plan that will spare Jian Jia Lane. She approaches Jiang Chao Xi in secret, only to stumble upon his comatose brother hidden in his home. As they spend time together, their initial animosity transforms into mutual respect and eventually love. Just as they fall for each other, Luo Yun Xi's life is once again threatened by the revelation of Jiang Chao Xi's true identity.

A distinguished academic unexpectedly finds himself as the guardian of a playful princess. Gyeon Woo enjoys the reputation of being “Joseon’s National Treasure,” celebrated as one of the leading scholars of his era. When the king requests that he properly instruct his spirited daughter, Princess Hye Myung, Gyeon Woo realizes he faces a significant challenge. However, as rebels threaten Hye Myung and jeopardize her future rule, Gyeon Woo unwittingly steps into the role of her protector. What starts as a job he never anticipated transforms into a mission to save Hye Myung from a dire fate and secure her throne. (Viki)

Four women of varying personalities and abilities journey through time to ancient China, where they work together to unravel mysterious cases

According to legend, each year on the seventh day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar, the Cowherd and the Weaving Girl reunite on the Bridge of Birds in the Milky Way. This special day marks a tragic love story between an immortal being and a human. The weaving girl, Fuk Jik Jik, is tasked with weaving colorful clouds in the heavenly palace. However, she accidentally drops her loom shuttle into the mortal realm, catching the attention of the Jade Empress. Jik Jik and her friend Bo Hei Jeuk are sent to the mortal world by the Empress to retrieve the shuttle. Jik Jik meets the Cowherd Wong Ah Ngau on Earth, who diligently crafts a new shuttle for her. Despite the forbidden nature of their love, Jik Jik falls for Ah Ngau and sneaks away to be with him. When the Jade Empress discovers their secret meetings, she summons Jik Jik back to the heavens. Refusing to give up her love, Jik Jik chooses to become mortal and stay with Ah Ngau, only to find that he has been stripped of his memories by the Empress.

The tale follows Jeon Woo Chi, a master who acquired his abilities by ingesting a Gumiho's bead, and his quest for vengeance against the betrayal of a friend that resulted in the loss of his mentor, Hong Kil Dong, and his beloved, Hong Moo Yeon. To seek retribution for their deaths, he journeys to Joseon, where he becomes an unwilling hero for the people. Hong Moo Yeon is a princess, the granddaughter of Hong Gil Dong, and the object of Jeon Woo Chi's affection.

The story revolves around Tian San Qi, a unique female detective on a quest to find her missing 'brother' while solving various cases. Since childhood, San Qi had a fascination with conducting autopsies and shared a close bond with her older 'brother'. When he suddenly disappears, San Qi vows to only marry him and embarks on a journey to uncover the truth. Along the way, she encounters potential love interests and forms new friendships. As they unintentionally get entangled in local cases, one of them appears to be linked to her 'brother's' disappearance. Eventually, a shocking conspiracy that has been brewing for a decade is revealed.

In a tale of love and seeking justice, we follow the bickering duo of Tan Ling Yin and Tang Tian Yuan. Tan Ling Yin, the eccentric daughter of a rich family, crosses paths with county magistrate Tang Tian Yuan. Known for his good looks, politeness, and prestigious family, Tang Tian Yuan is admired by many. Despite a rocky start, the two eventually team up to unravel a case. (chinesedrama.info)

Mok Sol Hee is a young woman who possesses the extraordinary gift of detecting lies, which has made her wary and skeptical of those around her

Yi Yul, the Crown Prince of Joseon, is a meticulous individual who largely dismisses the nobles within the royal court

Shui Wu Xia, a servant working at Langya Pavilion, is recruited by Jiang Manor to aid Master Jiang Bai Yu with his academic studies and martial arts practice. The strong and brave Wu Xia finds herself at odds with the conceited and mischievous Jiang Bai Yu. Both harbor secrets - Wu Xia is on a quest to find her missing older brother, while Bai Yu is delving into the mysterious death of his father. Circumstances lead to frequent encounters between them, allowing Bai Yu to reform his reckless behavior and revealing Wu Xia's unwavering determination. Ultimately, they discover a connection between Wu Xia's brother's disappearance and Bai Yu's father's murder. Together, they expose their common enemy's plots, preventing utter chaos and restoring peace to the people of the Jiang Continent. (DramaWiki)

A small fox spirit has arrived in the human world to settle a debt. She replaces the intended bride and marries the stoic general Gu Yu Fan. Their relationship evolves from a forced marriage to true love. Gu Yun Fan is renowned as the warrior deity of Tiansheng Kingdom. He sustained injuries while leading an army to repel invaders from Beirong. To ensure the continuation of the Gu family line, the emperor arranges a marriage. In gratitude to her benefactor, the fox spirit Xia Jiu'er becomes part of the Gu family through marriage. Through various challenges, Gu Yun Fan and Xia Jiu'er demonstrate their genuine love for one another. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles between humans and spirits to be together?

After Shen Qing Mei's brother mysteriously disappeared, she took on the role of a magistrate by disguising herself as a man. Little did she know, this decision would lead to a murder plot. The notorious assassin known as "Bloodless" was assigned to kill Shen Qing Mei, but he struggled with the task. Suffering from amnesia, he was taken in as Xie Lin Zhou, a scholar who ended up by Shen Qing Mei's side and eventually became her mentor. Unaware of Xie Lin Zhou's true identity, Shen Qing Mei only wanted to help him regain his memories. Thus, a unique love story between a killer and his target, a mentor and a magistrate, began to unfold.

Even though Xu Qing Jia lost his parents when he was young, he worked hard and excelled academically. He eventually married Hu Jiao, the daughter of a butcher. Hu Jiao, despite being illiterate, had a cheerful and organized personality. Xu Qing Jia dedicated himself to public service and initiated reforms as a local official. Their journey takes place during the Northern Song Dynasty, where they unite in love, marriage, and fighting against corruption to help the community.

Jeon Nok Du resides on an island with his father and elder brother. He is intelligent and skilled with a sword. From a young age, his father prohibited him from studying or visiting the mainland. One day, a group of female assassins assaults his father and brother. Jeon Nok Du pursues one of the assassins to the capital. During this pursuit, he encounters Dong Dong Ju, who intends to shoot the King with her arrow, but Jeon Nok Du intervenes to help her avoid trouble. Meanwhile, the assassin he is trailing infiltrates a village of widows. To uncover the reasons behind the attack on his family, Jeon Nok Du disguises himself as a woman and enters the widow's village. There, he reunites with Dong Dong Ju, who is training to become a gisaeng.

In the corrupt city of Heyang, the popular Pan Yue married Yang Caiwei, who was universally disliked

In the martial world, Prince Jiang Xin Bai, who suffers from face blindness, teams up with the cursed doctor Yan Nan Xing for a journey filled with challenges and a quest for justice

After perishing in a fire, Empress Wang Yun Ci is reincarnated as Princess Consort Duan, Jiang Jin Li, thanks to an ancient jade. Convinced that Prince Duan is responsible for her death, she sets out to seek vengeance, only to be thrown off by his care and protection. As their conflicting motives collide, they transition from manipulating each other to baring their souls, achieving their deepest desires, and uncovering love.

Around 500 years ago, during the Chosun Dynasty in Korea, there was a strict social hierarchy that favored men. The story of Jang Geum, a legendary girl, is based on true events. She defied the odds and became the first female supreme royal physician in history. Despite facing discrimination as a low-class girl in a male-dominated society, Jang Geum rose from being a royal cook to becoming the king's personal physician. She was even honored with the title "The Great Jang Geum" by the king. Her inspiring journey, filled with success, struggles, and a touching love story, is beautifully portrayed.

Crown Prince Yi Gak discovers that he has been whisked away from the Joseon Dynasty to contemporary Seoul. He encounters Hong Se Na, who looks remarkably like his deceased wife, and is resolved to uncover the truth behind her death, a mystery that has persisted for 300 years. Sharing a striking resemblance with the CEO's grandson at the company where Se Na is employed, Gak takes on the young man's identity to remain near her. Will the Crown Prince be able to maneuver through a modern corporation to gather insights that could lead him back to his own era?

Shin Woo, a man filled with regret, reflects on how he lost his first love a decade ago due to his inability to express his feelings. His fortunes change when he unexpectedly travels back in time, now equipped with the realization that she had feelings for him as well. As he attempts to guide his younger self in winning her affection, he inadvertently becomes a rival to his past self, as the girl begins to develop feelings for the older Shin Woo. The story becomes increasingly complex as he uncovers the reasons behind their separation.

Set in the early 19th century, the narrative follows Goo Hae Ryung, an apprentice aiming to become a palace historian. During this period, societal norms did not permit women to document history. Determined to carve out her own path in a Joseon society steeped in Confucian values, she is resolute in her mission to serve as a historian and demonstrate that equality exists for all. The drama intertwines her struggle alongside other female palace historians with her romantic involvement with Prince Yi Rim, who harbors his own secrets. (Koreandrama.org) Available formats include: 40 episodes of 35 minutes each (TV) or 20 episodes of 70 minutes each (Online).

Once an unremarkable blacksmith, Lee Soo unexpectedly ascends to the throne of Joseon at the age of twenty-three. Constrained by the limitations of royal life, particularly regarding his romantic aspirations, Lee Soo finds his hopes of marrying his childhood sweetheart, Gae Ddong, dashed by his newfound position. Undeterred, he enlists the help of the esteemed Flower Crew to elevate Gae Ddong into the ranks of nobility. Led by Ma Hoon, Do Joon, and Go Young Soo, they embark on the daunting mission of refining Gae Ddong, but the process proves to be more difficult than they anticipated. Will they manage to achieve their goal, or will the undertaking overwhelm them?