Asian dramas like
The Flower In Prison

Si Young, the eldest son of Park Hee Chan, is aware of the reason behind his father's insistence on him succeeding the family business. He is known for his ruthless business tactics and gradually evolves into a formidable leader while managing the guild. On the other hand, Jae Young, his younger brother, forges his own path and refrains from adopting his brother's cutthroat business approach.

The Imperial Household Bureau in the Tong Dynasty oversees the management of all household services for the Emperor and the Imperial family. It consists of four departments: Jewels, Attire, Food, and Furnishings. Lan Sam Ho and Yiu Kam Ling are brought into the bureau at a young age and raised in the palace's strict disciplines. Yuen Tsui Wan, the Head of Jewels, and Chung Suet Ha, the Head of Attire, both admire Sam Ho for her kind-hearted nature. They compete for her favor, as Sam Ho always remembers her mother's advice to do good deeds, speak good words, and show goodwill. In contrast, Kam Ling believes in using ruthless tactics to survive in the palace, eventually becoming a concubine through deceit. Despite realizing Sam Ho's love for the chess master Ko Hin Yeung, Kam Ling's jealousy is sparked by Sam Ho's connection with Emperor Lee Yi. In a bid to maintain her power, Kam Ling falsely accuses Sam Ho of murdering the Empress, leading to Sam Ho's wrongful condemnation to death. However, Kam Ling's schemes do not unfold as planned, highlighting the message of the drama that "benevolence" ultimately leads to victory.

Jang Bo Go was originally a slave from the Silla dynasty, which existed from 57 B.C. to 935 A.D. He was sold in China during the Tang Dynasty and trained as a gladiator-slave. Through determination and hard work, he eventually returned to Silla and established himself as a prosperous sea merchant. At that time, the seas were infested with pirates, and Jang Bo Go confronted them in fierce battles, successfully keeping them at bay. This remarkable tale narrates the life of a historical character, interweaving elements of intrigue and cleverness, resulting in a timeless drama.

The knowledgeable scholar Ji Xiao Lan engages in a continuous mental and verbal clash with the seemingly gentlemanly yet corrupt official He Shen, both enjoying the battle with no clear winner. Emperor Qian Long's actions sow discord between them, leading Ji Xiao Lan and He Shen to strategize relentlessly. The BronzeTeeth III consists of six stories that vividly depict power struggles in the Qing imperial court through humor, anger, and curses.

Set during the Enlightenment period of 19th-century Joseon, this story features a protagonist who is the offspring of the kingdom's most renowned swordsman. Following the loss of his father and the sale of his younger sister into slavery, he exchanges his sword for a firearm as he sets out on a quest for vengeance. Throughout this journey, the drama aims to illustrate the struggles and bravery of the youth from that time.

In the 1600s, during the Qing invasion, a romantic tale unfolds between a noblewoman and a mysterious man who arrives in her hometown. Yu Gil Chae, known as the 99 tailed fox of Neunggun-ri, is a charming yet somewhat spoiled young woman who is not well-liked by her peers due to their jealousy of her straightforward nature. Despite her ability to attract suitors, she struggles to win over the one she desires. Lee Jang Hyun, an enigmatic newcomer to Neunggun-ri, garners mixed opinions from the young nobles but gains favor with the elderly. His interest is piqued by the 99 tailed fox, and their paths collide unexpectedly. As war looms on the horizon, the pair is torn apart before they can explore their burgeoning emotions.

Created by Yu Zheng and penned by screenwriter Zhang Wei, this series serves as the companion piece to the well-received Female Prime Minister. It follows the journey of Ban Shu, the niece of the first female prime minister Ban Zhao. Ban Shu rises through the ranks to become a teacher at the Royal Female Academy established by Empress Deng Wei. However, facing increasing challenges due to court intrigues, she ultimately chooses to depart from the court in order to promote Han culture.

Kook In Yeob is the sole offspring of an aristocratic family. Renowned for her elegance and beauty, her life takes a drastic turn when an event causes her to lose her noble status and descend into the lower class. Throughout her trials, she discovers resilience and inner strength. Meanwhile, Moo Myung, the most handsome servant in Hanyang, conceals his true identity while masquerading as a servant, shrouded in mystery. (d-addicts)

Cha Geum Joo was previously a successful office manager, but her career takes a significant downturn when she is punished for breaching the Attorneys-at-Law Act and imprisoned as a result. The drama chronicles her inspiring journey as she reintegrates into society as an ex-convict, pursuing her aspiration to become an exceptional lawyer.

Queen Insu (1437-1504), spouse of King Deok Jong and daughter of Hanh Wak, who served as the second state councilor, was designated as Queen Insu beginning in the second year of Sung Jong's reign. She is regarded as one of the most remarkable stateswomen in the history of Joseon. The television series illustrates the tragic fates and relationships of three women. During the reign of King Dan Jong, the sixth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, Prince Soo Yang's son, Do Won, was wed to Han Jung. Distinct from other women of her time, Han Jung openly pursued her political ambitions. Ultimately, she opposed her mother-in-law, Queen Jung Hee, and maneuvered to place her son on the throne. The arrival of Deposed Queen Lady Yun escalated the tensions among the three women to a dramatic peak. (JTBC)

This story takes place in the 1930s during Japan's occupation of Korea. Na Yeo Gyeong owned a bookstore and was also an activist for independence. Seon U Wan, the affluent family's playboy son, got involved in the struggle for freedom after making a wager with his colleagues to win over Na Yeo Gyeong. His father financed the education of his employee's son, Lee Su Hyeon, only to be dismayed upon discovering he was working for the Japanese government's Security Branch. Cha Song Ju was a renowned gisaeng who operated a prestigious brothel.

The narrative follows a collection of doctors who appear to be entertaining in the Ming Dynasty's capital. Teaming up with the assassin from the East Factory and the West Factory, they create an enchanting group of detectives. Collaborating, they unravel a comical mystery tale.

The story takes place between the 1920s and 1940s and focuses on Beile Ha Lan, a mischievous and timid individual from the former Qing Dynasty. Ha Lan's life takes a dramatic turn when he comes into possession of a confidential document detailing the treasures hidden in the imperial tombs. Born in a rundown palace in the capital city in 1909, Ha Lan shares a childhood romance with Xiao Yue Lou. While serving as a study companion in the palace, Ha Lan develops a passion for imperial cuisine and befriends the skilled Chef Xie. Despite being engaged to Tong Li Hua, the daughter of Marquis Tong, Ha Lan declines the arrangement and expresses his desire to marry Xiao Yue Lou instead. Elsewhere, Eunuch Wang steals the secret tomb records, but Chef Xie manages to swap it with a meal given to Ha Lan. Additionally, Eunuch Wang's godson, Wang Si Jai, is also on the hunt for the treasures.

In recent times, the definition of "homeless" has evolved. There are young individuals known as "net cafe refugees" who lack both employment and a permanent residence, instead moving between internet cafes. One such refugee is Chisato, a 20-year-old woman who lost her mother early in life to illness. She spent her youth attempting to escape the significant debt left by her father, facing nightly confrontations with debt collectors. Chisato's perspective on "family" shifted after encountering Shinzo, a man from a wealthy family dating back to the Edo period. Shinzo had adopted six handsome sons in the hopes of finding a successor, but each son possessed peculiar traits. Shinzo offered to eliminate Chisato's debt in exchange for marriage and becoming the mother of his sons. However, living with these six men under one roof would prove challenging.

The 41st NHK Taiga Drama, titled Toshiie to Matsu, explores the life of Maeda Toshiie during the chaotic Warring States Era. His journey intersects with the renowned generals of Japanese history- Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu. Through his political acumen and the unwavering support of his devoted wife, Toshiie managed to climb to the second-highest position in the shogunate. He also expanded his territory to include Echizen, Noto, and Kaga.

Princess Sheng Ping is a determined royal who has a strong affection for Jiju. She escapes the palace to watch her favorite Jiju player, Chen Shao Tang, and amusingly crosses paths with Guo Ai, the sixth son of the Prince of Fenyang. Despite a rocky start, they eventually become close friends by helping each other and making valuable connections. Their bond deepens after failed romances lead them to marriage, although challenges arise due to Sheng Ping's royal status. Trouble brews when Guo Ai's ex-lover, Luo Xia, returns to cause discord. A drunken Guo Ai lashes out at Sheng Ping after she misses a family celebration, leading to a strained relationship between them. (DramaWiki; adapted from the Chinese folk tale "Zui Da Jin Zhi")

In the 1930s, Guangzhou was facing a period of political unrest, with gangsters causing chaos and the illegal opium trade flourishing. To combat this, the government established the Anti-Smoking Bureau to crack down on opium, but it was actually controlled by Cheng Long Kwan, the leader of the gang. Cheng Kau Mui, Kwan's cunning eldest daughter, returned from Shanghai to capitalize on the profits. Mui carefully strategized her every move. Meanwhile, Lau Sing led the Criminal Investigation Team, working tirelessly to secure a better future for his family, especially his sickly sister Lau Ching. Despite his fiery temper, Sing valued loyalty and camaraderie above all else. He once risked his life to help his timid colleague, Pai Kuat. As the Japanese army invaded China and took control of Canton, Mui faced her darkest hour when her aunt Cheng Long Hei framed her.

The Tenpo era marks the conclusion of the Edo period. Despite facing financial challenges on a daily basis, Nobu, the humble wife of Katsuie, maintains a cheerful demeanor. In this period, social status does not dictate relationships, and Nobu's kind heart is truly commendable. Katsukichi, my husband, is a skilled marksman with robust arms that are hard to dislike. I cannot help but adore Koiyoshi. Kokichi is supported by his radiance, carefree attitude, wisdom, and drive in facing life's challenges. Meanwhile, their son Rintaro observes his parents with a calm and intelligent demeanor. Inheriting righteousness from his father, Katsu Kaifune, Rintaro is determined to protect the people of Edo, displaying a love that transcends his mother's social standing.

During the Tenpo era at the end of the Edo period, there was a strong focus on reform. Katsuya Kokichi is known for his powerful arms, while his wife Onobu admires them when questioned. Despite facing financial struggles, she maintains a cheerful demeanor. Their son Rintaro is intelligent and ambitious, aiming to study Dutch in order to one day help the people of Edo as "Katsu Kaishu." Interestingly, he has recently developed feelings for a geisha from Fukagawa.

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)

This drama portrays the story of Kim Man Deok, a woman from Jeju Island who rose above her humble beginnings as a gisaeng and the limitations imposed by her isolated birthplace, which was viewed as a distant exile at that time. She emerged as a prosperous female trader during the Joseon Era. Eventually, she gained recognition as a paragon of virtue and nobility by donating her entire fortune to assist the people of Jeju during a famine, thereby saving numerous lives.

This story revolves around Lady Kim, a cunning concubine, and the turbulent events that occurred during the reign of King Seon Jo to Prince Gwang Hae, marked by immoral acts and violence all in the name of safeguarding the throne. Prince Gwang Hae's immoral actions were not unique to the Joseon dynasty. In the pursuit of protecting the throne, a parent murdered their offspring, a brother killed another brother, and a wife assassinated her husband. However, their deeds were not simply immoral acts. It is conceivable that other kings would have behaved similarly to Prince Gwang Hae if faced with the same imminent threat to their rule.

Baek Dae Gil and King Yeong Jo face off in a high-stakes game. Baek Dae Gil wagers his life, while King Yeong Jo stakes the entire Joseon Kingdom on the result. Renowned as the greatest gambler of the Joseon period, Baek Dae Gil harbors intense bitterness within, yet maintains a composed facade. King Yeong Jo is a ruler who never bows his head without a compelling justification. At the same time, Dam Seo is driven solely by a desire for vengeance against the king.

The story of Wang Li Fa, who runs a teahouse in Beijing during the 20th century, and the various customers who frequent the establishment.

Season 4 of The Eloquent Ji Xiaolan includes the stories: Xiaoyue's Homecoming, The Revolution that Wasn't, The Written Conversation Case, and Loyalty Temple. Ji Xiao Lan, a wise scholar who upholds justice fairly, Emperor Qian Long from the Kangxi-Qianlong era, and the corrupt He Shen, who accepts bribes and twists the law, once again engage in hilarious yet profound tragicomedies. (Ruyi Films)

During the 1980s, He Ning Zhi, the eldest sister who had served in the Great Northern Wilderness team, came back to Harbin with her husband, corps commander Lin Chao Ran, and a group of soldiers under his leadership including Luo Yi Min, Yang Yi Fan, and Zhang Ji Hong. Despite the lingering effects of the Cultural Revolution, they faced the challenges and uncertainties of urban life together.

The son of the renowned doctor Gu Feng from Qingyuantang pharmacy tragically drowned, leading Gu Feng's mother to blame their butler, Fang Cheng. Feeling resentful, Fang Cheng, who had a daughter named Qiang Wei with his mistress He Xiu, decided to swap his daughter with Gu Feng's daughter Ren Dong, who had been previously fostered elsewhere. Qiang Wei was raised in luxury by the Gu family, while Ren Dong grew up in poverty with He Xiu. As adults, Ren Dong coincidentally found employment at Qingyuantang pharmacy and crossed paths with Han Chong, a man who had faced numerous hardships in his life. Ren Dong's positive attitude and medical skills quickly earned her popularity at the pharmacy, including catching the attention of Zheng Ding, her longtime crush. When Fang Cheng discovered Ren Dong's true identity, he plotted against her and convinced Gu Feng's mother to create obstacles for her. Qiang Wei, upon learning her real heritage, also worked to prevent Ren Dong from reuniting with her family. With the support of Han Chong and Zheng Ding, Ren Dong persevered through challenges and emerged as a respected doctor. Fang Cheng's deceitful actions were eventually exposed, leading to his punishment, and Ren Dong was ultimately able to reunite with her family.

Zhou Ying is bartered to the influential Shen family by her guardian, but manages to flee by hiding in merchant Wu Ping's carriage. Impressed by her exceptional business skills, the Wu family decides to offer her shelter. Shen Xingyi, the spoiled son of the Shen family, eventually develops feelings for Zhou Ying.

Wong Fei Hung, a renowned figure of his era, is both a skilled martial artist and a revered hero. As a doctor at Po Chi Lam, a clinic in Canton, he has rescued numerous individuals, yet he is compelled to utilize his combat skills to protect the community.

Inspired by a historical figure, Ji Xiao Lan narrates the tale of an intelligent scholar serving as a top official under Emperor Qian Long in the Qing Dynasty. Ji Xiao Lan, known for his modesty and integrity, strives to aid the people affected by unfair treatment from heartless and dishonest government officials. He often clashes with the corrupt yet affable He Shen, a fellow official of the same rank but with more connections and resources. The series delves into various challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty government, such as famine, natural disasters, rebellion, censorship, murder cases, and widespread corruption. While the show primarily offers humor with wordplay, jokes, and absurd arguments, it also includes moments of serious and emotional drama. Emperor Qian Long occasionally joins the duo as their "third brother" during his secret travels across the country. Each season features loosely connected storylines comprising five to six narratives or arcs.

Fan Tung, a deity under the Stove God, was imprisoned in a winter melon for 500 years after offending the Queen Mother of the West. Tin Dai Kwai and his wife Chung Bik Yuk inadvertently free Tung from his confinement. Tung's spirit enters Kwai's brother, Tin Tai Fu, losing all his instincts in the process. Tung starts living with Kwai's family, but Yuk becomes suspicious of him and tries to uncover the truth. Unable to return to Heaven, Tung relies on six little deities to help him navigate the complexities of human nature. When Fu's wife Ling Fung returns unexpectedly and causes chaos, Tung breaks into the netherworld to set things right and restore order.

Cheung Sai Wai established an educational institution to nurture individuals with exceptional talents. One of his students, Chow Guk, is a close friend of Wai's and possesses natural abilities, although she does not dedicate much time to studying, resulting in frequent misuse of traditional proverbs. Recognizing the shortcomings of society, Wai believed that education alone could not bring about meaningful change in people's hearts. By chance, he crossed paths with Chan Jan Jan, a skilled writer of mysterious origins who possessed a competitive and talkative nature. Together, they became well-known figures in the legal field. However, their success attracted the enmity of Poon Gang Chyun and his son Yin Ming. Wai's dear friend Ha Hau Mo, whose father Chan Mung Kut had been unjustly accused and sentenced to death, harbored a strong resentment towards lawyers. Despite understanding Wai's motives, Mo grew suspicious of Jan's past and began to investigate her background, leading to the revelation of a long-buried injustice from two decades prior.

Cho Ching and her mother, Bai Yuet, have been traveling as doctors for many years. During one journey, Cho Ching meets Gai Chun, who has a skin condition, and his friend, Chin Tun. Cho Ching immediately falls in love with Chin Tun and is determined to marry him, despite facing many obstacles. Chin Tun's sister, Chin Sheung, tries to ruin their relationship upon learning that Cho Ching is Bai Yuet's daughter. Despite the challenges, Cho Ching and Chin Tun eventually get married. However, their happiness is short-lived when Cho Ching discovers Chin Tun's feelings for their maid, San Cha. This leads to a night where Chin Tun and San Cha spend time together. When Chin Tun expresses his desire to marry San Cha as a concubine, Cho Ching's jealousy and anger intensify. Meanwhile, Bai Yuet is convicted of murdering her husband and sentenced to death, causing the Chin family to ask Cho Ching to sever ties with her. To make matters worse, Cho Ching learns she is pregnant as Chin Tun seeks a divorce.

Jacqueline Wong, a servant working in the Vice Minister of War's residence, leads a group of maids from the six ministries who collaborate to exchange information and make profits. Roxanne Tong becomes a maid in order to raise funds for her lover to journey to the capital for the imperial exams. Jacqueline tends to the Vice Minister's first wife while Roxanne looks after the second wife, leading them to clash on behalf of their mistresses. Jacqueline and the young master develop feelings for each other, but face opposition from his father. Timothy faces a demotion for a transgression, while Tony is determined to excel in the imperial exams to restore his family's honor. Lisa Lau, daughter of the Minister of War, sets her sights on Brian and attempts to seduce him. Concerned that achieving a high rank in the exams may lead to losing their lovers, Jacqueline and Roxanne swear to sabotage their scholarly aspirations. Just as the two couples are on the verge of separating, they become entangled in a treasonous plot.

This tale delves into the ethical principles of a merchant and the significance of wealth. Renowned author Choi In Ho narrates the legend of Im Sang Ok, a celebrated Korean trader during the Joseon Dynasty (1779-1855).

The narrative centers on a criminal investigation and forensic methods set in the late Joseon period, tracking the efforts of a covert special task force formed to address the rising tide of crime stemming from the political instability of the time. Kang Seung Jo and Kim Kang Woo head a group of top-notch investigators as they delve into the details surrounding enigmatic fatalities and various offenses.

The plot of the drama revolves around the question of what might occur if Lee Myong Ryong were to be considered unattractive, whereas his servant Bang Ja Jeon possessed good looks. As Lee Myong Ryong pursues Lady Chun Hyang, both individuals utilize their servants as intermediaries for communication...

The narrative commences in Osaka during the outbreak of World War II in 1945, focusing on Sun Ja's efforts to safeguard her family by resorting to risky decisions

The drama will portray significant historical occurrences with a scholar at its core. Ryu Seong Ryong was a government official who served during the late 16th century under King Seon Jo. A distinguished Confucian scholar, he was appointed to oversee military efforts during the Imjin War and had a considerable impact on Admiral Lee Soon Shin. The narrative begins prior to the onset of the Imjin War and will track the characters through to the Battle of Noryang and the demise of Lee Soon Shin.

Hong Gil Dong was the son of a prominent minister born out of wedlock. A local monk took him in and instructed him in martial arts. Driven by a desire to combat the societal injustices that separated nobles from commoners—where the former enjoyed privileges due solely to their lineage—Hong Gil Dong became a fighter for change. Meanwhile, the female lead, Heo Yi Nok, had recently returned to Korea from China alongside her grandfather. They made their living by showcasing performances and selling their distinctive medicines in the market. Lee Chang Hwi had been raised with the belief that he was the legitimate heir to the throne, which had been seized by his half-brother. Having just returned from exile in China, he was scheming to topple the emperor. The three characters found themselves caught in a web of love, animosity, loyalty, and treachery, with only one faction destined to prevail.

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

Bu Dong, a clever and humorous monk, shares a mysterious bond with the Ming Emperor. He takes on the role of an unorthodox educator for a rowdy bunch of pupils, including the Crown Prince. Initially, the students display disrespectful and playful behavior, but over time, Bu Dong earns their confidence and gradually influences their outlook through his kind motives and compassionate nature.