Asian dramas like
Stealing Seconds

Since ancient times, humans have been engaged in battles against creatures known as monsters, who have been living among them in disguise. Following the victory of the human race, the monsters, referred to as "Yaozu," agreed to cease using their special powers and submit to unified governance. As a result, a joint organization was established by both mankind and their former enemies to oversee both parties. This organization is known as "Mountains and Rivers," or "Shan hai Jing of the mountains and rivers" in Chinese.

Li Li is inadvertently causing trouble at work, leading to the dismissal of four colleagues. However, her manager, Qiao Yi Qiao, steps in to assist and together they decide to launch a new company. They secure a rundown four-story building and encounter Yang Wei, who is physically agile but lacks intelligence. The interactions between these six unique personalities in the workplace result in a series of humorous situations as they strive to build their careers.

Kim Jung Ho, a well-known and wealthy filmmaker, recently traveled to China from Korea. While in China, he coincidentally comes across a poster of Ouyang Ming Ming, a rising star who he used to go to school with and was his first love. Inspired, he seeks guidance from his elderly uncle on mastering The Art of War in order to win over Ming Ming. However, things take an unexpected turn when he encounters Ming Ming's guardian, Yu Xuan.

Zhi Yin Sheng is a well-liked figure in the dance group "San Jian Sheng" (The Three Musketeers) and is highly respected by his peers. Despite his popularity, he exudes an air of arrogance. Han Qian Hui, on the other hand, is a kind-hearted and affectionate young woman. When she comes across a derogatory post about females online, she pens a sharp response that catches the attention of Yin Sheng, the original poster. Although they start off as adversaries, their close friends, Zheng Xi Can and Xu Jia Le, develop a romantic relationship. As Yin Sheng and Qian Hui interact through mutual friends and other chance encounters, their hearts gradually open up to each other and they fall in love.

Dashing, wealthy, and always surrounded by beautiful women, Lu Sinoe, the Chairman of Luks Properties, along with his friend Chen Shu-Feng and cousin Jingu, stroll through the city with a strong belief that women only seek marriage for financial security. On the other hand, Liu Lin enjoys her independent life with her best friends Yang Yang and Su-Yue, embracing her single status. However, Liu Lin's mother's insistence on finding her a partner leads her to reluctantly attend matchmaking sessions. She believes in living a fulfilling single life rather than seeking out love. When Liu Lin tries to prevent an unexpected marriage between Chen Shu-Feng and Yang Yang, she crosses paths with Lu Sinoe, leading to a clash of personalities. Despite their initial animosity, as they navigate through failed relationships and job struggles, Liu Lin ends up working for Lu Sinoe's company, sparking more conflicts between them. The presence of Lu Sinoe's secretary, Yu-min, adds further confusion to their relationship. After facing numerous challenges, the misunderstandings between them slowly fade away, allowing for a deeper connection to form. However, fate intervenes once again, throwing them into a new wave of uncertainty. Caught between staying or leaving, they both carry their pain in their hearts, unsure of what lies ahead.

Is it possible for five contemporary Chinese women to discover the love and admiration they desire during their middle age? Chen Qing Xia has retired from her career as a model, Fiona holds a senior position in a company, Bi Ran works as a translator, Catherine was raised abroad and currently works in media, and Li Xiao Yi is the sole member of the group who fears solitude. While navigating the challenges of their intricate relationships with men and family, will these women be able to achieve the joy they are searching for?

A team of relationship experts assist individuals in turning their romantic aspirations into reality. Each expert brings a unique background to the table, initially coming together to establish a PR company. Surprisingly, they evolved into the most sought-after agency for relationship guidance. As they aid clients in finding their ideal partners, they also discover their own journeys.

"My Forgetful Girlfriend" is a romantic comedy that follows the amusing situations that arise when the female protagonist (Nam Gyuri) experiences amnesia. Nam Gyuri will portray two roles in the series - a wealthy heiress and a regular girl who loses her memory and ends up living in the male lead's home as a nanny.

Is it possible for a heterosexual man to be a woman's closest friend without any ulterior motives? Fang Jun is a dedicated marriage advisor who approaches his work with sincerity. His clientele includes Liu Hui Yun, a divorced woman betrayed by her successful husband; Ye Shan, a career-focused woman who has neglected her personal life; and Yi Yi, a stylish young woman who rushed into marriage and subsequent divorce. As Jun forms close relationships with these women, attending to their needs and even cooking meals for them at their homes, it raises the question: is he genuinely seeking friendship or is he adept at gaining new clients for his consultancy business? (Viki)

Yu Tong and Xu Zheng, a married couple, faced a rift in their relationship due to a misunderstanding and decided to separate. To ease his financial burden, Xu Zheng rented out rooms in their home to his friends, Xia Feng and Yi Nan, after Yu Tong left without informing him. One day, they discovered an abandoned baby and chose to care for it collectively. This experience resulted in personal growth for each of them, ultimately leading to a reconciliation between Xu Zheng and Yu Tong.

A chance encounter brings Zhou Qing Qing and You Bin together unexpectedly. Their paths cross when they each receive a sachet at the same moment - Qing Qing's sachet reads "Fortune Luck" while Bin's reads "Blossom Luck." When Qing Qing's mother complains about her single status, Bin offers to switch sachets, giving Qing Qing the "Blossom Luck," much to her annoyance. However, it becomes apparent that Bin may actually need the "Fortune Luck" more than Qing Qing. Bin's ex-wife returns, believing he has won the lottery and demanding money to repay her debt. Meanwhile, Qing Qing breaks up with her non-committal boyfriend Lu Yao Wei. To appease her mother, Qing Qing asks Bin to pretend to be her new boyfriend, leading to real feelings developing between them. Complications arise when Qing Qing's best friend tries to reunite her with Yao Wei. The question remains - what lies ahead for Qing Qing and Bin?

Every woman deserves the opportunity to find love, according to Chen Guo. She is determined to show that women who have been unfairly labeled as undesirable by society have the right to seek out their perfect partners and tie the knot. To prove her point, the ex-banker founded Sheng Dou Shi's Shop, a matchmaking service dedicated to helping these marginalized women discover genuine love. Guo, alongside her skilled team members such as IT specialist LiSi Ming and charming spokesperson Bai Yu, works closely with each client to assist them in finding long-lasting happiness in relationships.

Lei Xiao Tao and Yang Kang share a deep love for each other, but their relationship has faced challenges from the start. Their families disapprove of their hasty marriage, despite both partners having successful careers and dreams for the future. The arrival of Luo Yi disrupts their lives, leading Lei Xiao Tao to reevaluate her feelings and ultimately choose between Luo Yi and Yang Kang.

Jin Qi Lin hails from a lineage of matchmakers, traditionally a position held by the women in the family

Dennis initially had a negative opinion of the struggling economic company. However, his path was hindered by the former club International, leading to a significant setback in his career. Despite this, he held onto hope amidst challenges. Thanks to Jin Haoxun's efforts, Soaring Sky successfully recruited a group of talented trainees who worked together towards their debut goal. During their rigorous training, the trainees were inspired by Lin Fenfen's upbeat attitude and determination, motivating them to unite and strive towards their aspirations. Through this journey, Lin Fenfen not only formed strong bonds with the trainees of Soaring Sky but also caught the attention of the once arrogant Dennis. Their relationship evolved from conflict to mutual understanding.

Upon graduating from a martial arts school, Fei Zhong Jie, a handsome and optimistic individual, faces challenges due to his lack of a wealthy family background. Despite losing his girlfriend to a rich second-generation individual and enduring humiliation, he remains determined to achieve success. Shen Yu Tong, a coffee shop worker and the daughter of the affluent Xu Zhong Heng, has struggled with the absence of her mother since childhood and the betrayal of her ex-boyfriend. Their paths cross by chance, leading to a deep connection based on Fei Zhong Jie's kindness, persistence, and confidence. As their relationship evolves from initial discomfort to mutual understanding, they navigate the complexities of love amidst family dynamics and societal expectations. Through their journey, they learn that true success lies not only in personal achievements but also in cherishing the relationships and happiness found in the company of others.

The plot centers on Taomu, a female scriptwriter who does not work online. Her scripts are often turned down, causing her to feel disconnected from life. Taomu dreams of incorporating her own romantic love story into her scripts. As she embarks on a journey of love with 12 diverse boys, she discovers the true beauty of love.

A tale unfolds within a fitness center where a group of individuals come together to work, share laughter, navigate city life, and even find love. As seven people and a cat interact, various dynamics and peculiar interactions with customers arise. The enigmatic Uncle Peter unexpectedly allocates funds to establish a gym, enlisting the help of three employees - the kind but unlucky fitness trainer Ma Fei, the adventurous swim instructor Da Wei, and the eccentric receptionist Xiao Mi. During a job fair, Uncle Peter recruits the unconventional Qin Qin to serve as an accountant and chef. Overcoming numerous challenges, Haha Gym eventually opens for business. To address staffing shortages, Uncle Peter brings on sales agent Lin Shao as a consultant, while wealthy runaway Qiao Jia joins as a female trainer.

The story primarily focuses on the romantic relationship between Wei Lai and Xia Shuang, who cross paths unexpectedly due to financial issues at the animation company. (Douban)

The narrative of My Impossible Life revolves around Mona Li, a plus-sized woman with a chaotic personal and professional life. When she comes into possession of a mystical family heirloom, her career flourishes, and her romantic life becomes idyllic. However, she soon realizes that having everything go according to plan does not necessarily lead to a fulfilling life. Despite setbacks, she learns to appreciate the present moment as the most valuable aspect of life. (Sohu, Manmankan)

Konda Satoshi, played by Ohno Takuro, enrolls in a prestigious university in Tokyo and starts a new chapter in his life in the bustling city. Despite his lack of experience in romantic relationships, Konda Satoshi is eager to win over women and decides to take on a job at a cabaret club. It is here that he encounters the club's manager, Mizuno Aiya, portrayed by Kataoka Ainosuke, who introduces him to a unique love philosophy. The storyline is inspired by the novel "Love Riron" written by Keiya Mizuno and published in 2007 by Daiwashobo.

The series follows four romantic relationships. A petite government officer becomes infatuated with a tall, stunning woman. Despite their physical differences, the couple faces challenges, but their actual height gap is only 5 inches. Sports News Prince consistently pursues women who are already in relationships. The only barrier between the Prince and these women is timing. A wealthy man known for one-night stands can easily seduce women. His lack of interest in mysterious creatures is understandable. The wealthy man's distance from true love lies in their differing morals. The love between Asia's Superstar and a mechanic from MongKok seems impossible, like a distance as vast as heaven and earth.

After a romantic night in Hainan, Lin Zi Qi and Yang Guang decide to get married quickly. This decision leads to frequent arguments between the two. Lin Zi Qi, aged 30, is a clever and self-reliant woman who often clashes with her charming younger husband Yang Guang. Yang Guang, who is also her boss at the magazine where she works, has a reputation for being attracted to other women. As they navigate their unconventional marriage in a bustling city, they learn that married life is more challenging than they anticipated.

After her prime years had passed, Sam Sook decided to marry Han Ji Won, a bachelor who was hesitant about settling down. Despite this, he remained committed to maintaining his bachelor lifestyle.

In previous lifetimes, Mo Chung and Lam Chung shared a close friendship. Reincarnated as Ha Chung Yum and Lam Ji Chung, they encounter each other once more. While Chung Yum becomes involved with a criminal organization, Ji Chung becomes a police officer. Chung Yum recovers his memories from the past and attempts to persuade Ji Chung that they were once brothers. Will they maintain their friendship or will they become adversaries?

In the 1960s, Tang Wai Cheung departed mainland China for Hong Kong in search of his distant relative Tang Gang Cen. While in Hong Kong, Tang Wai Cheung developed romantic feelings for Cheng Bik Wan, and they resided together in humble housing projects. Over time, they inherited wealth as a family, leading to a transformation in their financial status. The narrative incorporates elements of humor and music.

In the series, three couples highlight the different roles of women in today's society. Chai Foon and Ko Chi-Ling's story explores the challenges of a significant age gap in a traditional Chinese setting. Man King-Leung and Hilda Hoi Kiu showcase the pursuit of power and fame at the expense of relationships, but ultimately learn the importance of love and family. Ko Chi-Lik and Ida Hoi Suen's relationship sheds light on gender roles in modern society, with Lik initially holding traditional views on women's capabilities until he realizes Ida's strength and determination. Their conflicts and eventual understanding demonstrate a shift in values.

Fong Hok Man is employed at a bookstore and strongly believes in the power of knowledge. He has three children: two sons named Sum Ming and Sum Ching, as well as a daughter named Sum Mei. While Sum Ming did not excel in academics and did not pursue higher education, Sum Ching is very intelligent and decided to continue his studies in IT at a university in the United States. To support his studies, Sum Ming works diligently in Mauritius for better financial opportunities. Eventually, both brothers return to Hong Kong and coincidentally end up working in the same commercial building - Sum Ming as a security guard and Sum Ching as a Senior Network Security Engineer. Fearing that their differing job positions may strain their relationship, Hok Man intervenes to help Sum Ming by purchasing a bookstore for him to manage. Meanwhile, Sum Ching, who is already in a relationship with Abbie Lui Yuen Yee, finds himself developing feelings for his colleague, Chui Hei Man.

Successful businessman Mak Tai Song (Dayo Wong Tze Wah) decides to distance himself from the corporate world after the death of his mentor, which he deeply regrets. Upon discovering that his mentor's wife, She Mo Lin (Theresa Lee), is struggling with a significant amount of debt, he begins to sell his "business tactics" to trader Tong Kat (Benz Hui Shiu Hung) in order to help her recover financially. Despite his reluctance to take on a full-time job, Song's income fluctuates daily. He faces pressure from collection agent Lam Miu Miu (Charmaine Sheh), who is determined to corner him. As they engage in a series of tricks and mind games, their relationship evolves into that of rival lovers. Unexpectedly, Song reconnects with his estranged half-brother On Cho Lin (Michael Tse Tin Wah), triggering painful memories of abandonment by their mother and father. Fueled by resentment, Song seeks revenge against On's family, leaving Miu feeling bewildered by his sudden transformation.

Tiger Wong, feeling frustrated with his mother's constant nagging about marriage, impulsively decides to marry Chow Man Bun, who is disguised as a woman. He arranges for Bun to stay in his younger sister Wong Sau Ying's room for the night. As a result, Tiger ends up marrying Ying to Bun and imposes strict rules to mistreat Bun in their household.

Lo Gwai Fong, an individual working in the food supply sector, possesses a plain appearance, is of short stature, is over 30 years old, and lacks experience in romantic relationships. Following an incident involving bitter melon, she aids young restaurateur Lau Bak Yip in overcoming a crisis. Lau Bak Yip, who is tall, wealthy, and attractive, recognizes her inner beauty and develops feelings for her. Lo Gwai Fong's neighbor and close friend Ko GwaiFun struggles to come to terms with this development. Despite originating from the fish market, Ko Gwai Fun boasts stunning looks. She endeavors to capture Lau Bak Yip's interest through various means, albeit unsuccessfully. Instead, she catches the eye of Hung Xian, the heir to a Taiwanese noodle enterprise. Hung Xian goes to great lengths, including downgrading and relocating to the same subdivided flat as her, in an attempt to get closer to her. Failing to win over Lau Bak Yip, she redirects her focus towards his older brother Lau Lei Go. As time progresses, Lau Bak Yip faces challenges arising from others' disapproval of his relationship with Lo Gwai Fong. Their bond is put to the test. As love loses its supremacy, conventional standards of attractiveness become irrelevant, and men and women find themselves in a complex game of pursuit and evasion, engaging in a fierce competition for love.

A single error by the God of Fortune alters the destinies of Mui Choi Gon and Wong Bak Man. While Wong Bak Man prospers financially, Mui Choi Gon is left abandoned by his wife and daughter, now operating a noodle shop on his own. When Mui Choi Gon encounters Wong Bak Man's son, Wong Chiu Choi, they feel a strong connection. Despite his father's disapproval, Wong Chiu Choi secretly assists Mui Choi Gon with the help of his bodyguard. Wong Chiu Choi arranges for Mui Choi Gon's god-daughter, Lin Chi Yung, to work at his father's company. It is revealed that Wong Chiu Choi is actually the embodiment of the God of Fortune, bringing luck to those around him despite losing his magical abilities. Unfortunately, his stepmother, Tsui Sim, embodies an evil spirit and thwarts Wong Chiu Choi's efforts to bond with Mui Choi Gon. Tsui Sim orchestrates a scheme involving Ng Hiu Ting posing as Mui Choi Gon's long-lost daughter to ruin him. Fortunately, Wong Chiu Choi is struck by lightning, gaining enlightenment just in time to rectify the situation. He assists Mui Choi Gon in achieving wealth, but Mui Choi Gon's selfless nature hinders him from amassing riches. Wong Chiu Choi decides to intervene and transforms Congratulations Lane, where Mui Choi Gon resides, to bring prosperity to everyone involved.

Following her breakup, veterinary surgeon Kam Wai Ting relocates to Sai Kung with her cherished dog Donut to start anew. At her new job, Wai Ting crosses paths with animal communicator Wong Sing Yan, leading to frequent disagreements stemming from their differing views on pets. Sing Yan gains the ability to communicate with Donut after an accident, fostering a bond between man and dog as they assist each other. Donut reveals to Sing Yan that Wai Ting is dealing with romantic issues, prompting him to help unravel her dilemma. Their relationship improves over time, evolving into a mutual liking, despite the hindrance of their age gap. Donut attempts to play matchmaker for the pair, resulting in comical mishaps and unforeseen consequences. Additionally, both Wai Ting and Sing Yan attract their own admirers, further complicating their budding romance.

The artist unintentionally unleashed the spirit of a woman named Hua Dan, resulting in the creation of a touching love story involving a ghost. This story reveals the tragic reality of her death many years ago, and now the love that binds two souls is in danger of being torn apart once more.

Despite not having marriage on her radar, Renko encounters someone special on her twentieth birthday that prompts her to contemplate the idea of marriage. This lighthearted comedy follows the internal conflict she faces as her emotions collide with those of her friends and family, ultimately contributing to her journey of experiencing her first real love.

It was Christmas in the year 2000 when Ataru Yazuki found herself working late. After finally finishing her work, she hurried home in a Santa costume to surprise her boyfriend, Ken. However, upon entering the house and calling out "Merry Christmas," she received no response. Frantically searching for Ken, she discovered that he and all his belongings were nowhere to be found. Confused and upset, Ataru rushed to her friend Kaoru Aizawa's house, only to find Kaoru spending Christmas alone cooking sweet and sour pork. Ataru asked where Ken was, to which Kaoru responded in surprise that Ken had left. The realization hit Ataru hard that Ken had left on Christmas, the day of their first anniversary living together. Overcome with emotion, Ataru curled up on the kotatsu. As they shared a Christmas cake, Kaoru understood that Ataru had been planning to propose to Ken. The last Christmas of the millennium turned out to be a lonely one for both of them.

A woman's appearance plays a significant role in her life. What happens when a woman is not blessed with good looks from birth? This is the tale of a girl born into a family where unattractiveness is common. Despite her lack of physical beauty, this unfortunate girl struggles to find romantic success due to her appearance. Desperate for a change, she undergoes a cosmetic procedure in the Mediterranean in hopes of transforming into a beauty that can attract love and happiness. Upon returning to Japan, she fulfills her dream of becoming a fashion model, leading a glamorous life she always desired. However, she lives in fear that her true identity may be revealed. Although her face has been altered, her inner flaws remain unchanged. She is an artificial beauty, yearning for genuine love and acceptance. Can she find the love she seeks?

This romantic comedy delves into the inner workings of the newest wedding companies and the personal struggles of couples preparing for marriage, all from the perspective of wedding planners. Toru Oomori is a member of the finance team at a mid-sized company. Due to restructuring, he is reassigned to "Sweet Bridal" as its new president. Toru understands that his time as a salaried employee is limited and is determined to boost sales and recover from past setbacks. However, a troubling incident from a year ago continues to cast a shadow over his work at the company, making his days there quite challenging.

Takanashi Machi, a skilled and appealing veterinarian, sets a goal to lose her virginity before her 28th birthday. At a class reunion, Machi and her friends recall Takumi, a classmate who was particularly kind to her. Machi starts dreaming about reuniting with him. One day, while chasing after a cat, she encounters its owner, who turns out to be Takumi himself.

A sitcom showcasing three independent women navigating life in a bustling urban center, aided by a relationship expert who helps them uncover their real emotions about love, marriage, relationships, and lasting joy. The journey into the world of love commences with the striking of a gong!! --TV Asahi

Taking place in 1970s Osaka, this humorous tale kicks off with local young man Kentaro taking a risk and winning the affections of the ambitious and lovely Maki. After tying the knot, they decide to launch a small transport business with just one truck. Unfortunately, their business opening coincides with an oil crisis, leaving them with no customers. However, the resilient couple refuses to give up easily, and Maki suggests pivoting to a moving company instead. The story that unfolds is a heartwarming journey of love, dedication, and triumph.

Hashimoto Ai, a fresh recruit in the police force, has relocated to a new town with her spouse, Tetsuro, following a transfer. At the Musashino Central Police Station where he has been assigned, Ai encountered a seasoned detective named Okita, who served as her inspiration to pursue a career in law enforcement. Over the course of a week, the story unfolds with Ai navigating her role as a detective, facing conflicts with her mother, and witnessing Tetsuro's personal growth. Despite its detective theme, the drama is infused with comedy and lacks any murder elements.