Asian dramas like
Tears Of Happiness

Fifteen-year-old Ikeuchi Aya is a typical girl from a family involved in running a tofu shop, getting ready to start high school. Recently, Aya has been experiencing unusual symptoms such as frequent falls and difficulty walking. After a visit to the doctor with her mother Shioka, they learn that Aya has been diagnosed with spinocerebellar degeneration. This devastating illness causes gradual deterioration of the cerebellum in the brain, leading to difficulties in walking, speaking, writing, and eating. The story is adapted from the diary of Kito Aya, the inspiration behind "1 Litre no Namida," who battled the same disease and passed away at the age of 25.

During a chilly Christmas in 1996, Fong Kin Choi, a dedicated worker, fell ill and expressed his final wish to reunite with his youngest son, Ka Him, from whom he had been separated for 12 years following a divorce. It was revealed that Ka Him had been struggling with mental health issues due to his mother's drug addiction and involvement in illegal activities since childhood. After Kin Choi's passing, his eldest son, Ka Fai, took Ka Him under his wing and helped him overcome his challenges to live a fulfilling life. Ka Fai discovered Ka Him's hidden talent for music, particularly the piano, and with his support, Ka Him rose to fame as a pianist, proving that despite his mental health issues, he could achieve success and lead a normal life like anyone else. The journey to success for Ka Him was marked by setbacks and discrimination due to his disability, but in the end, his perseverance was recognized. The narrative of the show conveys a powerful message that individuals with disabilities can thrive, and that discrimination only hinders their progress.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Xu Duo Cheng is a young girl who exudes happiness and vitality, though hidden beneath her smile is the burden of ALS disease

Ueto Arisa, who has a mild intellectual disability and autism, struggles to connect with others due to her hidden disabilities. Her difficulties at work often lead to dismissal, contributing to her feelings of inferiority. Seeking validation, she tends to seek intimacy with men who show interest in her. Despite her challenges, she admires those who lead ordinary lives. When she meets Okamura Ryuji, a fellow part-time worker, at her new job, she falls in love with him. His kindness gradually brings about a positive change in her.

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.

Aspiring to study in France, Goo Eun, who studied make-up at her university, becomes a victim one night after a drinking spree

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.

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.

The narrative revolves around Zhou Zhen Hua, a medical oncologist facing a life-threatening disease, who plans to create a joyful conclusion for his cherished wife

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.

Based on Hiroshi Ikushima's partially autobiographical essay, the mother-in-law of Hiroshi Ikushima (a former TBS announcer) faced mobility challenges caused by a meniscus injury, which later progressed to dementia

After leading a typical life as a high school educator, Hideo Nakamura is devastated to learn that he has just one year left to live. Struggling with a deep fear of death and mental turmoil, he finds himself consumed with regret over his past actions. Despite this, Hideo resolves to make the most of his remaining time and embrace a positive outlook, choosing to focus on creating a memorable final year rather than dwelling on the 28 years that have passed.

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.

To prevent the disintegration of families affected by dementia, a team led by Cao Wen Long, the head of the neurology department at Dealim Tzu Chi Hospital, established a dementia center with the assistance of clinical psychologist Akita and personal manager Qiu Man. Their objective is to facilitate memory maintenance classes to help patients recover their joy and provide relief for their families. While navigating this initiative, Cao is faced with the loss of his father and his mother's subsequent dementia diagnosis. Simultaneously, personal manager Qiu Man grapples with a family crisis. Can director Cao effectively address his family responsibilities while aiding his team in resolving their personal challenges?

Upon learning that he is in the advanced stages of lung cancer, Jang Young Chul reflects on his life and starts to grasp the significance of family, affection, and career. This drama explores the roots and truths of the ongoing struggles between spouses and between parents and their children.

Detective Choi Jang Soo, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease, resolves to focus on bringing happiness to his family upon realizing his time is limited. The narrative of Choi Jang Soo and Oh So Young presents a relatable portrayal of a married couple. Their relationship faces difficulties when Huh Jun Ho, a fund manager who has been in love with So Young for years, and former criminal Jo Hyun Soo, who has feelings for Jang Soo, enter their lives. The drama highlights the everyday struggles of fathers who must often prioritize work over family and mothers who transform into determined "warriors," willing to do whatever it takes for their loved ones. (KBS Global Marketing)

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)

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.

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.

Zi Ling has always lived in the shadow of her perfect older sister Lu Ping. She has been harboring feelings for Chu Lian, who is Lu Ping's boyfriend. Lu Ping is focused on her dream of becoming a professional dancer and doesn't have much time for Chu Lian. Conflict arises when Chu Lian realizes his true feelings for Zi Ling. After an unfortunate accident, Chu Lian feels guilty and ends up marrying Lu Ping, but he can't forget about Zi Ling. Fei Yun Fan, a wealthy older man, also loves Zi Ling deeply. Zi Ling eventually starts to return Fei Yun Fan's love as she tries to move on with her life.

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.

Following a decade of separation due to the father living overseas, a father and daughter face the challenge of healing old wounds. The daughter, who has been residing with her aunt since her parents' divorce and abandonment, struggles to forgive and reconnect with her father upon his return. Despite their turbulent relationship, the aunt's nurturing support helps the father and daughter navigate their emotions and come to terms with their familial roles.

Han Xiao was saved unexpectedly by Jiang Ling while he was being pursued. He discovered that Jiang Ling had the ability to alleviate his heart condition. To find a cure for his ailment, Han Xiao deceived Jiang Ling into marrying him. As they spent time together, Han Xiao developed feelings for Jiang Ling. Ultimately, only one of them could make it out alive. (Chinese = iQiyi || Translation = Google Translate)

From a young age, the two sisters in the Wang family displayed contrasting personalities. The older sister, Wang Yan, has struggled with congenital anemia, while the younger sister, Wang Ling Jun, is known for her stubborn and mischievous nature. Against her family's wishes, Wang Ling Jun made the decision to move to Shenzhen, disrupting the peaceful life that Wang Yan had built there. Despite being unemployed, Wang Ling Jun moved in with Wang Yan, and over time, their relationship blossomed into one of warmth and harmony. As they grew closer, both sisters developed a deep bond with each other. When Wang Yan's old illness resurfaced, Wang Ling Jun, who had once considered leaving her sister behind, made the choice to stay by her side.

Yoo Sun is a talented chef facing a rare illness that will eventually lead to blindness. Adding to her challenges is her strained relationship with her boss, Kim Tae Bin. Surprisingly, Sun and Tae Bin end up falling in love despite their initial conflicts. Their budding romance becomes complicated when Tae Bin's close friend, Suh In Ha, develops feelings for Sun, while In Ha's sister, Suh Ji Ho, harbors feelings for Tae Bin. The situation worsens when Tae Bin discovers Sun's illness, causing strain in their relationship. Tae Bin struggles to come to terms with Sun's condition, while Sun resents Tae Bin's sympathy. Can Sun and Tae Bin overcome their differences? Or will In Ha and Ji Ho emerge triumphant from the love triangle?

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.

According to the initial plot summary available online, the main male character is an advertising executive who enjoys riding motorcycles and rollerblading. At one point, he experiences a temporary loss of vision. The female protagonist, on the other hand, becomes deaf at the age of 18. Despite the challenges she faces, she remains determined and resilient. When she encounters true love, she must confront her feelings. Even though she has a long-time companion whom she believes will be with her forever, she must decide how to navigate this new relationship.

Gao Chun and Jin Kui initially bond over their shared passion for dancing, but their paths diverge due to unforeseen circumstances. Upon reuniting, Gao Chun is left paralyzed and married to someone else. Jin Kui takes on the role of a housekeeper in his home, dedicating herself to assisting Gao Chun in regaining his strength and rediscovering his joy and self-assurance.

Kyoko, a young woman who remains spirited despite being confined to a wheelchair due to illness, and Shuji, a fashionable and well-liked hairstylist for a fashion magazine, cross paths in a fateful accident. Despite their initial clash, they quickly develop feelings for each other, with Shuji admiring her bravery and passion, and Kyoko appreciating his ability to see beyond her physical constraints to her true self. However, challenges arise as Kyoko's protective brother and her deteriorating health put a strain on their relationship, threatening their future together.

Ah Xun and her sister Yi Cheng both have heart conditions, which leads to Ah Xun being bullied at school. Qing Chuan, her only friend, gifts her a glass bottle with a lavender sprig before moving away. They make a promise to reunite on Ah Xun's 20th birthday. A decade later, Qing Chuan, now a well-known singer named Leo, returns to Taiwan. Despite facing challenges, Ah Xun and Leo rekindle their friendship and begin a romantic relationship. However, their love faces obstacles such as Ah Xun's illness, Leo's girlfriend Maggie, and Ah Xun's suitor Xiao Tong.

In "For My Love," the narrative revolves around a family spanning three generations. Retired Grandma Qi devotes much of her time to caring for her granddaughter Ting Ting. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Ting Ting's parents decide to divorce and Ting Ting herself becomes deaf following an accident.

Cheng Yuan and Cheng Yu An were once deeply in love, but a series of unfortunate events and manipulations by Qiao Xin caused them to drift apart. As Cheng Yu An battled a terminal illness without Cheng Yuan's knowledge, she endured mistreatment from him fueled by his bitterness.

Jiang Wen Song experienced kidney failure, leading Wang Hao to leave after a misunderstanding involving an anonymous kidney donation. Reuniting years later, she allowed her new partner to mistreat him, but she ultimately reversed the situation before her passing. (ShengshiDrama YouTube || Translations = Google Translate)

Chen Nian and Lu Jing Xuan, who grew up together and developed a romantic relationship, faced a challenge when the biological son of the Lu family reappeared and Lu Jing Xuan was expelled from the household. They made a pact for Chen Nian to seek him out later. However, the following day, Chen Nian received a diagnosis of leukemia. Concerned about Lu Jing Xuan's ability to cope, she requested his father to look after him. Unfortunately, his father, who was materialistic, mistreated Lu Jing Xuan by hiring someone to assault him and falsely claiming that Chen Nian had lost interest in him.

Satoko Mugimaki suffers from an immune system disorder. Instead of following her doctor's advice to get married, Satoko decides to relocate to an affordable apartment building. There, she befriends her caring landlady, Suzu, and her son, Tsukasa. The tranquil environment of the apartment complex proves to be a healing sanctuary for Satoko, rejuvenating both her body and spirit.

Taking place in 1998, the plot revolves around a circle of friends who unite, experience love, and navigate various facets of life. This drama is yet another creation by Ruby Lin.

The narrative centers around a cheerful and naïve 27-year-old man who has an IQ of 65. Due to his challenges, he faces neglect from society and is often looked down upon; however, he strives to remain hopeful and not let negativity affect him. Seo Eun Hye, a clumsy con artist on the run from law enforcement, believes that wealth can provide happiness, while love only leads to more sorrow than it is worth. One day, she encounters this young man, and he profoundly transforms her perspective on life.

In the past, Qin Ge and Bai Qi Jia were a popular couple on campus, but their relationship ended abruptly when Qin Ge's health started deteriorating. Now, Qin Ge is a thriving manga writer who also battles a chronic illness. As she faces challenges at work, fate brings her back in contact with Qi Jia. Qin Ge believed she had shut love out of her life, but with Qi Jia's reappearance, will she be able to ignore her buried emotions?

Chan Tsz Long, a kind designer, and his optimistic girlfriend, Yau Hoi Kei, are a common couple in Hong Kong facing challenges related to land disputes. Tsz Long's two younger sisters, Chan Tsz Yan and Chan Tsz Ting, have contrasting personalities. Photographer Tsz Yan is captivated by artist Ki Ka Hei's extravagant lifestyle. The series aims to showcase the dynamics of love, conflicts, and connections across different generations. (TVBAnywhere)