Asian dramas like
Smile To Life

A Chinese adaptation of "1 Litre of Tears" tells the story of Gu Yihang (played by Liu Enyou) who hires He Tongyao (played by Jin Sha) as their tour guide during a vacation with his girlfriend. Unfortunately, a car accident occurs, revealing that Tongyao has spinocerebellar ataxia, an untreatable degenerative illness. Following the breakup with her boyfriend due to her condition, Yihang and Tongyao are unexpectedly brought together once more by fate, leading to a blossoming romance. This adaptation is inspired by the real-life diary of Kito Aya, who battled a degenerative disease and passed away at the age of 25.

A love story unfolds between a talented musician with OCD and a former female star who takes on the role of his assistant. (DramaWiki)

During the 1980s, two siblings from a rural farming community decide to leave their impoverished village and seek a better life in the bustling city of Haizhou. Liu Xing He, a kind and eager individual, sacrifices his own chance at education so that his younger brother, Liu Xing Chen, can pursue his studies. However, Xing He also makes his way to the city, following the village beauty Hao Yi Duo. When Hao Yi Duo falls victim to a fraudulent investment using all her wedding dowries, Xing He comes to her aid and crosses paths with Su Zi Tong. Grateful for Xing He's previous assistance, Zi Tong recommends him to her father for a job opportunity. Meanwhile, Xing Chen grows envious of his older brother and causes trouble repeatedly. Despite this, Xing He remains determined to guide his brother onto the right path.

A tale about a group of young hopeful idols who train together to pursue their aspirations, and a mysterious encounter that transforms Lu Fei into Lu Xiang. Lu Xiang, Bai Ying, Zhang Han, and Wei Chi are part of the newly-established band A.C.E. Lu Xiang serves as the adorable and naive lead vocalist, Bai Ying is the passionate rapper with a cool exterior, Zhang Han is the primary dancer, and Wei Chi is the kind-hearted boy next door. Following an accident, Lu Fei undergoes a magical change into Lu Xiang, becoming a handsome trainee during the day and a convenience store worker at night. The arrival of a nurse named Wu You You adds unexpected excitement to his life.

Married to Koichi and facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease, 30-year-old Kaoru's life takes an unexpected turn. Despite her condition worsening, they decide to keep the baby and name her Himawari. As Kaoru grapples with her limitations, she starts writing a heartfelt letter to her daughter, which serves as the central theme of this emotional drama series.

This tale revolves around Seo Yeon, a woman who is gradually forgetting her memories, and Ji Hyung, a man who commits himself to loving her.

Go Bok Su had a challenging upbringing and was incarcerated for theft. Jeon Kyung, a brooding tomboy from a wealthy family, plays the keyboard in an obscure indie band. When the band's lead singer suffers a brain injury, the group struggles to raise funds for surgery, leading Bok Su to steal Kyung's wallet. Believing their encounter was destined, Bok Su leaves his girlfriend Mi Rae to pursue Kyung. As Bok Su learns of his terminal illness and limited time left, his life takes a new direction.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Matt, the keyboard player for the band "Magnet," tragically loses his life in a car accident, leaving his devastated brother Neil, the lead singer

In the height of his youth, Lin Tuo meets An Zhi Que during a summer internship event in their third year of college. They fall in love instantly. As they near graduation, they transition from academia to the workforce, juggling part-time jobs, job searches, and making plans for their future together. Although life doesn't go as smoothly as expected, they support each other. However, just when things start to look up, Lin Tuo receives a life-changing diagnosis. Lin Tuo is diagnosed with ALS, cutting short his once promising life. In shock and unable to face his family, he isolates himself, but eventually reveals the truth as his condition worsens. His loved ones come together to support him, refusing to let him give up in the face of adversity. Embracing their love, Lin Tuo gathers the courage to move forward boldly.

Luo Tian Ran is a determined and independent young woman who values herself highly and aspires to become a successful songwriter in the music industry. Unfortunately, she is forced to leave her home due to the meddling of her friends. Fate brings her into contact with Jin Ze Yi, a famous pop star who initially appears arrogant. Despite his aloof demeanor, he has a hidden vulnerable and childish side. The two are compelled to share a residence temporarily, even though their personalities clash at first. Over time, Luo Tian Ran finds herself drawn to Jin Ze Yi's charms, and their feelings for each other grow mutual. Could a romantic relationship blossom between these two unlikely partners? (Viki)

While employed at a beachfront hotel alongside his high school friends, Fujishiro Koji encounters Kaoru Amane, a busker. Kaoru is battling XP (xeroderma pigmentosum), an untreatable illness that prohibits sun exposure. It is only by chance that the two cross paths, as sunlight would have kept them apart. Despite this, fate intervenes and brings them together. Koji has been adrift since losing his job unexpectedly, abandoning his aspirations. However, upon meeting Kaoru, who is determined to pursue a career as a singer, Koji rediscovers his dormant love for music.

Cheng Yue and Rui Shan are both talented musicians, with Cheng Yue being a pianist and Rui Shan a cellist. Despite being known as the most prominent couple in the music world, Cheng Yue's life takes a turn when he injures his arm while trying to save a girl named Xiao Lu from a car accident. This incident leaves him unable to play the piano, leading him to give up music and embark on a journey to escape his sorrow. Two years later, Cheng Yue finds himself living in Shanghai where he crosses paths with Xiao Lu, who is now his colleague. Through their work together, they develop a friendship that gradually deepens. Meanwhile, Rui Shan locates Cheng Yue and urges him to return to music, but it is Xiao Lu's encouragement and positivity that ultimately inspire him to rediscover his passion for life. Despite falling in love with Xiao Lu, Cheng Yue faces rejection from her, raising questions about the fate of their love story. Despite the challenges they face and uncertain future, Cheng Yue's love for Xiao Lu remains steadfast.

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

Sawada Takuto, a typical college student, discovers he has been diagnosed with A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's disease) and has limited time left. Rather than succumbing to sadness, Takuto chooses to embrace life to the fullest.

The plot of Starry Starry Night centers on a romantic entanglement involving Peter Ho, Tammy Chen, and Qiu Ze. By chance, Tammy Chen crosses paths with Peter Ho and they both feel a strong connection. Their relationship blossoms after swapping mobile phones accidentally. The situation becomes more complex when it is revealed that Qiu Ze (portraying Tammy Chen's stepbrother) harbors secret feelings for her. Upon learning of Peter Ho's cancer diagnosis, Qiu Ze strives to ensure Tammy Chen's happiness remains unaffected by trying to alter her destiny.

A skilled vocalist named Song Dan Ping arrived at an island with his small troupe of performers. While staying there, he developed strong feelings for Tong Ruo Fan, whose family funded the construction of his new theater. Despite their growing love, her family disapproved of their relationship and arranged for her to marry Chen Tian Yi, a wealthy man from the island. Ruo Fan's envious fiancé secretly set fire to Dan Ping's theater after its grand opening. Dan Ping was later presumed dead. The devastated Ruo Fan married Tian Yi without knowing he was behind the arson. Years later, a mysterious man with a significant fortune arrived on the island, bringing with him a desire for revenge and chaos.

The narrative revolves around the romance shared between Yoo Sung Jae, a talented musician from South Korea, and Misaki, a woman from Japan. After grappling with guilt related to her boyfriend's demise, Misaki moves to Korea where she encounters Seong Jae, who aids her in healing from the painful memories of her past through love. (DramaWiki)

The narrative revolves around the blossoming relationship between a devoted fan of serious romance and an idol who are destined to never cross paths

The destinies of a pair of enka singers, a Hong Kong martial arts icon, and others become interconnected in this high-speed show showcasing the entire Gekidan Exile ensemble. (Netflix)

Raised in a funeral home, Ha Na has become desensitized to the spectrum of human feelings. Her true passion lies solely with money. One day, she devises a plan: she intends to locate a wealthy man who is terminally ill, marry him, and secure his fortune after he passes away. However, things take an unexpected turn, and instead of encountering a rich man whose wealth she can claim, she meets Ho Sang, who has his own hidden agenda. Desperate and evading gangsters, he has assumed the identity of a deceased affluent individual. Upon learning that Ho Sang is suffering from an incurable form of cancer, a misled Ha Na decides to take him on as her fortunate find. The catch? She is unaware that he is even more destitute than she is, and he remains oblivious to his cancer diagnosis.

Lin Chu Man is a fashion model who values wealth over physical appearance when it comes to men. However, her perception changes when she discovers that her ideal man is actually a poor music student named Cai Jia Hao posing as a billionaire's body double. After facing a series of setbacks including losing her job and being dumped by her wealthy lover, Lin ends up living with Cai as roommates. As they spend more time together, Lin begins to question her priorities and realizes that happiness may not necessarily come from wealth.

A typical middle-aged woman has dedicated her life to her loved ones. After being diagnosed with terminal cancer, she faces the difficult task of saying farewell to her family.

Yi Xiao Mian, a talented female pianist, had to step back from her career to keep a hidden truth. Bei Yu Tong, a promising young surgeon, comes back to China to uncover the mystery behind his mother's car accident. Sha Ye Qi, a female office worker, is instructed by her father to get close to her boss. Ye Hang Xuan, the fifth wealthiest person in diamonds, has been discreetly searching for the woman who once saved him. Ye Hang Xuan's mother Meng Anna, due to her husband Ye Lu Ming's affair with Yi Xiao Mian's mother, starts pressuring Yi Xiao Mian.

Wang Guo Guo is an author who believes in not seeking out love, until she encounters the ideal man she has always dreamed of. Yi Feng, the vocalist of a musical group, will be residing at her residence. Fortunately, her younger brother is there to support her in her quest to capture Yi Feng's affections. (ChineseDrama.info)

Wealthy private lender Yoon Bok Hee has three children. After she develops Alzheimer's, her children face various challenges as they transition into adulthood. On the other hand, Jang Hoon Nam, who lost his parents in his childhood, cares for his older brother who is deaf. He possesses a deep sense of duty. Jang Hoon Nam encounters Go Young Chae, the eldest daughter of Yoon Bok Hee, at their workplace. Go Young Chae is characterized by her arrogance and vanity. Initially, they often clash, but over time, their relationship evolves into love.

Yang Yi Ru, known for her dedication to work, rarely took time off for vacations. Upon being deceived by her relatives and friends into believing she had cancer with only six months to live, Yi Ru was encouraged to go on a holiday overseas to unwind from her busy schedule. Still reeling from the shocking news, Yi Ru met Lan Shi De while he was on a business trip. When Yi Ru confided in Shi De about her limited time left and her desire to marry and have children, he proposed to her. Unaware that Shi De had actually met and fallen for her years ago, Yi Ru accepted his proposal.

I Am Yu Huanshui tells the story of a man who endures hardships until he learns he has a terminal illness, transforming his outlook on life. This drama is based on the novel If There Is No Tomorrow. (DramaPanda)

Tang Yu Feng and Cheng Zi Yue are two individuals who are brought together by a bone marrow transplant. Yu Feng is grateful for the second chance he has been given and appreciates the generosity of his donor, Zi Yue. Meanwhile, Zi Yue is facing challenges of her own as her husband, Zhao Si Wen, not only abandons her for another woman but also steals money from her family, leading to their bankruptcy. Additionally, Zi Yue's daughter becomes estranged from the family. Witnessing Zi Yue's struggles, Yu Feng feels compelled to offer his assistance to the person who once saved his life.

The narrative revolves around Tang Zhong, who unexpectedly enters the entertainment industry in place of his identical twin. His path crosses with Dong Pu Ti, a foreign exchange student who initially appears unfriendly, but the two ultimately develop romantic feelings for each other.

Gam Yin, a partially retired Diva who now works as a manager, is dedicated to promoting her group of singers and securing performances at prestigious venues. However, she finds herself at odds with Ling Fung, a popular singer who rose from humble beginnings in a small village. Jue Yuk Laan, Fung's childhood friend who harbors romantic feelings for him, unwittingly causes more harm than good in her attempts to assist him.

A musical drama starring Nogizaka46 and Erika Ikuta in the lead role follows a story of a virtual drinking gathering organized by workers of a stamp store in a contemporary Japanese town, depicting life under the impact of the recent COVID-19 outbreak. The romantic storyline that blossoms from this scenario unfolds through a combination of music and lively dialogues. The cast also includes HayatoKakizawa, Shinji Saito, Sylvia Grab, and Jun Hashimoto (thetv.jp).

A residence doesn't become a true home until it is personalized by someone. Gao Ling had a strong emotional connection to her childhood residence and decided against selling it despite struggling to make mortgage payments. On the other hand, Yuan Hao was eager to leave his family's housing development company-owned home. Feng Shang Ning, however, never had a home of his own, making it difficult for him to create a welcoming living space. Gao Ling crossed paths with them in awkward encounters - one where she asked for money and another where she attempted to deceive. Little did she know that one of them would become the father of her child, marking her first heartbreak. The other would ultimately be her savior.

Qiao Fei, a French graduate student with dreams of becoming a well-known interpreter, continues her studies in Paris. By chance, she meets Cheng Jia Yang, an experienced interpreter, at a university. Although their mentorship begins with difficulties, Qiao Fei impresses him by overcoming challenges, leading to a romantic connection between them. However, their relationship faces unexpected obstacles when Qiao Fei tries to avoid her ex-boyfriend Gao Jia Ming, who is Cheng Jia Yang's brother. Both Gao Jia Ming and Qiao Fei have hidden struggles despite appearing perfect on the surface. With past romantic scars, they proceed cautiously as they confront challenges in their blossoming romance. Will their enduring love triumph over the difficulties they face?

The story revolves around a group of modern youths facing their own personal challenges. They unite to provide each other with encouragement and support, putting on a heartwarming comedy filled with love. Hong Qingqing navigates a tough life caring for her six-year-old orphan sister, Hongdou, and their Alzheimer's-stricken father, Hongshan. Despite their apparent struggles, this unconventional family dynamic brings Hong Qingqing a sense of belonging. However, long-buried secrets come to light, casting a shadow over her relationship with Meng Le amidst memories of St. Petersburg. (iQIYI)

The series follows the journey of a young comic artist named Xiong Dun as she faces challenges in both her personal life and career. Despite encountering obstacles, she remains resilient in fighting her illness and spreading positivity with her infectious smile. Xiang Yang, a carefree woman with aspirations of becoming a manhua artist, moves to Beijing to pursue her dreams. Despite facing hardships, Xiong Dun eventually settles down in Beijing with the support of loved ones. However, she faces a series of setbacks including infidelity from her boyfriend and health issues. After being urged by a childhood friend to seek medical help, Xiang Yang discovers she has a tumor. Despite initially struggling to accept her circumstances, she gradually finds the courage to embrace life to the fullest.

In the winter, Yuichi was hospitalized for hepatitis and would occasionally attempt to escape, only to be stopped by a nurse. One day, he met Rika, a girl his age in a neighboring building. Despite being initially drawn to her beauty, he discovered she was selfish. As he got to know her, he realized her behavior was due to a terminal illness, which made him develop feelings for her.

"Over the Rainbow" explores both the bright and dark aspects of the tumultuous lives of dancers and singers. This drama realistically portrays the aspirations of dancers who dream of becoming vocalists. Kwon Hyeok Jo is a determined and affectionate dancer who develops feelings for Jeong Hee Su, a fellow dancer aiming to transition into singing. Together, they embark on their journey toward fame. Meanwhile, Rex, a charming young man with exceptional talent and a key asset to Pride Ent., seeks to break free from his label and pursue his own path. Ma Sang Mi is a kind-hearted yet awkward girl who is still in search of her true passion. This emotionally charged narrative delves into the struggles and triumphs of achieving popularity as a singer, featuring themes of betrayal and the constant cycle of reunions and separations. It provides a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of striving for stardom.

Ji Yeon Hee, a 23-year-old woman, has never been in a relationship due to her intense shyness, which causes her to blush deeply and feel utterly frozen in the presence of an attractive guy. One day, four members of EXO decide to live incognito and take up residence in the home of one member's grandfather. Unbeknownst to them, their new house is directly across from Yeon Hee's home.

The narrative revolves around a romance between the rebellious student Kang Wook and his teacher Yool Ju, set in a high school located in Chuncheon. Prior to her encounter with Kang Wook, Yool Ju was in a relationship with Tae Hyeon, a public prosecutor. However, as time passes, Yool Ju and Kang Wook develop a profound love for each other, overcoming societal biases, their age difference, and the complexities of a teacher-student dynamic. An unexpected tragedy occurs when Yool Ju accidentally causes the death of Kang Wook's classmate, who had been bullying him. Due to her narcolepsy, Yool Ju cannot recall the events of that day, having fallen asleep during the incident. To shield her from the consequences, Kang Wook takes the blame and serves time in prison for her. After five years, upon his release, Kang Wook reunites with Yool Ju, only to find that she is now engaged to Tae Hyeon. Upon discovering the extent of Kang Wook's sacrifice for her, Yool Ju feels compelled to reconnect with him. However, Kang Wook is not alone this time; he is accompanied by Ja Kyung, a former classmate and current radio host. Their respective situations complicate Yool Ju's ability to pursue her feelings for Kang Wook, yet she is determined to assist him in reclaiming the five years lost and achieving his dream of becoming an exceptional chef.

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.

The rookie idol group Deep Blue is in turmoil as leader Jeong U and Jun Hui's hidden relationship causes conflicts with Alex. (BoysLove Update Facebook)

Eisuke used to play bass in a rock band before deciding to take over his family's French restaurant. The plot of the show will revolve around a love triangle, with Kuninaka and Takimoto vying for Eisuke's affections. Maris, Eisuke's older girlfriend who works at a bank, is surprised to learn about his career change and feels uncertain about their relationship. Chie, a 20-year-old college student from a farming background, initially had a negative opinion of Eisuke but starts to develop feelings for him after tasting his culinary skills. Tokio, the owner of a rival French restaurant, used to admire Eisuke's mother's restaurant but took advantage of her passing to acquire Eisuke's family business. Aware of Eisuke's talent as a chef, Tokio sees him as a competitor. Eisuke's former bandmates from ROCKHEAD are now assisting him in running the restaurant.

Lin Fen Fen is striving to achieve her dream of becoming a singer, despite facing rejection in auditions. After a fortunate turn of events, she catches the attention of a company and embarks on her journey in idol training. Despite encountering challenges and putting in a lot of effort, Fen Fen perseveres in pursuit of her aspirations, forms new bonds, and finds love along the way.

The tale of a psychologist who suffers from dissociative identity disorder and his female alternate personality.

After being diagnosed with advanced cancer and given only three months to live, Tong Xiaoman's life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a man from a different world. Despite their unusual circumstances, the strong-willed Ou Ze Ye and aspiring actress Tong Xiao Man find themselves spending time together. As they grow closer, Xiao Man develops feelings for Ou Ze Ye, only to discover that he is not of this world. On every full moon, he transforms into a vicious creature overcome by a savage "curse." Their love story, set against the backdrop of her terminal illness, is a tender and poignant tale of an alien prince and his human "wife."

The plot centers on an unconventional kids' program titled "Minna de Utao!" Kenta, a budding musician, experiences a breakup with his band and a heartbreak from his girlfriend. Adding to his troubles, his family deems him as ineffectual. Surprisingly, he transforms into an "uta no oniisan," a singing figure on the show for children.

In a bustling shopping district, a street piano is located inside a music store. Sawamoto Ren, a young electrician who has neglected the piano for quite some time, decides to embark on a new journey as a street pianist after a chance encounter with Kajiwara Midori, the music store owner's daughter. As time goes on, individuals from different walks of life visit the street piano to engage in heartfelt conversations and play music with Ren and Midori.