Asian dramas like
The Forbidden Marriage

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

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)

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

This drama explores the journey of Kim Soo Ro, the famed founder of Geumgwan Gaya, the leading city-state within the Gaya confederacy that excelled in maritime trade and iron production during the Three Kingdoms Period. Kim Soo Ro relies on his passionate nature, charm, and intellect as he navigates the protracted political conflicts he faces, including rivalry for the throne from his half-brother and longtime adversary, Ijinashi, his former ally Suk Tal Hae, and the menacing ambitions of Shin Kwi Gan.

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

This drama narrates the tale of Jang Hee Bin, a renowned royal concubine during the Joseon Dynasty, who played a significant part in the ousting of King Sook Jong’s spouse, Queen In Hyun. However, in contrast to the numerous dramas and films that depict this infamous antagonist, this series will explore the life of Jang Ok Jung prior to her rise as concubine Jang Hee Bin, highlighting her contributions as a fashion designer and cosmetic creator in the Joseon period.

Sim Jung Woo, a bright and attractive young man, was once the youngest to achieve first place in the state examination. However, his life took a tragic turn when he was chosen to marry the princess, who unexpectedly passed away during their wedding ceremony. This unfortunate event left Sim Jung Woo unable to hold a government position or remarry, as per the customs of the Joseon period. He then crosses paths with Jung Soon Deok, a widow known by the alias Yeo Joo Daek, who leads a secret life as a matchmaker and seller of women's products. Together, they become involved in helping older singles find love and marriage in the bustling capital city of Hanyang.

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.

In this tale reminiscent of "Ghostbusters," youthful watchmen from the Joseon Dynasty battle against demons. Against the backdrop of the royal palace, the heroes defeat these malevolent beings while the villains exploit them for their own agendas. The palace is filled with dark schemes aimed at seizing control and overthrowing the king. This narrative of young demon hunters beautifully illustrates the challenges and joys of life in all their richness. (MBC)

Set in the 17th Century, Jang Beo Jin is a young female diver residing on Tamra Island. She is not fond of her circumstances and aspires to escape the island one day. To her surprise, she stumbles upon a young man with blond hair lying on the beach. His name is William, and he is a British citizen who has been shipwrecked. Meanwhile, another young man, Park Kyu, arrives on the island disguised as one of the many convicts sent there. In reality, Park Kyu is an aspiring government official known as Seon Bi. This trio soon finds themselves entangled in a comedic love triangle. The series is available in two formats: 16 episodes (TV) or 21 episodes (Director's Cut DVD).

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

Set during the final days of the Joseon period, Seong I Gyeom, who recently topped the state examination, finds himself lacking in ambition despite his achievements

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

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

Ba U, a disreputable individual engaged in gambling, theft, and brawling, conceals his real self while profiting from Bossam, a traditional remarriage practice in Joseon involving the abduction of widows for marriage. In a misguided attempt, Ba U unknowingly abducts Princess Hwa In, the daughter of King Gwang Hae and the daughter-in-law of his rival Lee I Cheom. Princess Hwa In is coerced into a political marriage with her deceased husband's sibling, resulting in her becoming a widow on her wedding day.

Kim Yun Hee is an intelligent and responsible young woman driven by her independence. Following her father's death, she has taken on the responsibility of supporting her family while excelling in her academic pursuits. When her younger brother's health deteriorates and their family faces the risk of eviction due to financial struggles, Kim Yun Hee, in a bid to help him, decides to take the men's national exam using her brother's name, disguising herself as a boy. On the day of the examination, she encounters Lee Seon Joon and they form a friendship. Lee Seon Joon hails from a wealthy background and is not only handsome but also quite arrogant. Both successfully pass the national exam, leading to them sharing a room at Sungkyunkwan University, where she must conceal her true identity. During her time there, she also befriends the charming Goo Yong Ha and the rebellious Moon Jae Shin.

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

Set in a fictional realm where humans and vampires live side by side, the vampires have adapted and no longer depend on human blood for sustenance. Nevertheless, they continue to face fear and prejudice from society, leading many to conceal their true identities and blend in as "ordinary" citizens, while others find themselves ostracized. Baek Ma Ri is a reclusive teenage girl who conceals her vampiric nature. After being driven from various neighborhoods, she is eager to establish a new life in her current city and enjoy a peaceful existence. However, her life takes a turn when she develops feelings for Jung Jae Min, the most popular boy in her high school.

Shen Zhao Er, the daughter of the palace-appointed physician, was raised alongside Ji Heng, the son of a high-ranking official. When a royal consort is poisoned, Zhao Er's father is wrongfully accused of murder and the entire family is executed. However, the true culprit is a close friend who betrayed Doctor Shen. Despite the tragedy, Zhao Er manages to survive and dedicates herself to studying medicine. She infiltrates the Ji official family as a doctor using the alias Tian Qi, aiming to uncover the truth behind her family's wrongful execution. As she delves deeper into the Ji family manor, a web of murders and conspiracies unfolds, testing her intelligence and skills as she fights to protect herself and her loved ones.

The narrative revolves around Qing Cai, the son of the deceased king, who resides in obscurity in a small town to avoid entanglement in court conflicts until contacted by his foster father, Han Zhong. In order to rescue his foster father, he must masquerade as a woman and infiltrate a village that exclusively enlists Ming women. In Yishan Village, they encounter Gan Po, a vengeful orphan from Momen, along with Wang Yi Shao, Han Ai Zhen, and Gao Gao, each harboring their own motives and backgrounds. Throughout the ordeal, Qing Cai concocts numerous outlandish tales to conceal his true identity, all the while developing romantic feelings for Gan Po. Their initial enmity transforms into affection as they fall in love.

The versatile scholar Tong Bak Fu is on a journey across the country accompanied by his close friend Wat Gei. He is in search of the final beauty to include in his 'Nine Beauties Painting'. Along the way, he develops feelings for Chau Heung, a maid from the Wah family, and decides to paint her to complete his masterpiece. To get closer to her, he joins the Wah family as a servant. Initially, Chau Heung sees Tong Bak Fu as lacking in talent. However, as challenges arise that only Tong Bak Fu can overcome, their relationship becomes more complicated. Despite having different perspectives on life, Tong Bak Fu and Chau Heung find themselves at odds. The situation is further complicated by Princess Tin Yuk, who constantly bullies Tong Bak Fu and others but eventually falls in love with him. Adding to the drama, Tong Bak Fu becomes entangled in a power struggle involving the Emperor, Prince Ling, and others.

Fueled by a desire for retribution over her father's demise, Amu transforms herself into a man and manages to enter the Chiyin Manor. However, her true identity is uncovered by the young master Chu Jing Chen, who pretends not to know the truth and openly shows favoritism towards her while secretly ensuring her safety. Despite harboring intense animosity, Amu remains oblivious to her growing feelings for him. As they face various challenges together, they eventually unite forces and uncover the true adversary that has been lurking in the shadows all this time.

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)

The Luckiest Man is a comedy that takes place during the Ching Dynasty and follows Dai, the sole heir of a wealthy rural family. Despite his vow to remain loyal to one woman, Dai finds himself with two wives due to unexpected circumstances. This leads to a series of peculiar adventures for Dai, including an unlikely friendship with the young Ching Emperor. The film explores themes of fidelity, love, and the twists of fate in a light-hearted historical setting. (yesasia.com)

In a comical tale, a spirited young girl named He Tianxin disguises herself as a boy. Tianxin crosses paths with Emperor Zhu Li and Zhang Zhesan, forming a friendship with both. Over time, both the Emperor and Zhesan develop feelings for Tianxin, resulting in a humorous yet complicated love triangle.

Set in the Early Republic period, this drama follows the tale of Gu Zhi Xia, the missing daughter of a military governor. Originally known as Ling Xue, she lost her memories while trying to find her father. Renamed Zhi Xia without her memories, her sworn sister Cui Cui took on the identity of Ling Xue. The story delves into the intricate and emotional love triangle involving Zhi Xia and the two men vying for her affection. Will she choose Xiang Tian, a rugged bandit with whom she developed a deep connection through life-threatening situations, or Chi Rui, the heir of the Chi family who instantly fell for her? Join Zhi Xia on her journey filled with joy, sorrow, and above all, love. (CdramaDevotee)

The continuation of the story involves the Crown Prince, the Crown Princess, the Prime Minister's son, and his martial arts sister, creating a unique love square. Su Yu and Ye Qing Ge are separated by force but manage to reunite through a staged death. Xie Qing Yun decides to step back from the love triangle, leading him to meet He Lian, the martial sister. However, their troubles escalate when the Empress Dowager of Beichu exposes Su Yu's true identity, putting Ye Qing Ge in danger as the King considers eliminating the imposter Crown Prince.

A tale of rivalry and romance unfolds between Jianwen Emperor Zhu Yun Wen and his uncle Zhu Di as they compete for power and the affections of the same woman. Despite his impressive abilities and bravery, Zhu Di was never able to become crown prince due to the rules of succession. When the crown prince unexpectedly dies, Zhu Yun Wen is named emperor by Zhu Yuan Zhang, creating a barrier for Zhu Di. Both men become enamored with Xu Miao Yun, setting the stage for her tragic dilemma of being torn between two rulers.

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.

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

The Secret Investigation Record draws inspiration from cases outlined in the Annals of Joseon History, featuring an unusual twist; these events include enigmatic, supernatural aspects that defy scientific explanation. Kim Hyung Do serves as a state inspector, whose unwavering dedication to uncovering administrative wrongdoings leads him to confront these peculiar mysteries directly. Heo Yoon Yi, a civil servant, supports him and seeks to comprehend these scientific anomalies with an open perspective, contrasting with his skepticism.

Lu Yue Er, a charming 17-year-old urbanite, is known for her diligent, brave, and compassionate nature. She also possesses an upbeat, reliable, and laid-back demeanor. Despite facing adversity, Yue Er stands firm in her values and displays resilience akin to 'wild grass'. Hua Yi Nan, the dashing 20-year-old ruler of Huajian, is adored by the public but harbors a mysterious side. Residing on a picturesque island with flourishing cuisine and culture, Yue Er, a humble noodle shop owner, has endured mistreatment from her stepmother since childhood. Nevertheless, she remains positive, optimistic, and kind-hearted towards others. Driven by family obligations and Hua Yi Nan's affection, Yue Er finds herself in a perplexing situation and eventually marries the island's owner. Unbeknownst to her, Hua Yi Nan's pursuit was driven by a familial decree mandating his marriage to Yue Er for inheritance purposes. Despite feeling deceived, Yue Er chooses to trust Hua Yi Nan and embarks on a new chapter with him. Through the support of allies, Hua Yi Nan eventually realizes that his true love is Lu Yue Er.

During the 37th year of the Wan Li Era in the Ming Dynasty, Jiangnan County is plagued by a series of peculiar murders

The tale humorously depicts ghosts who are unable to depart our realm due to their strong connection to the living

Saved by a compassionate individual in his youth, Chor Yat Jeen has aspired to become the top detective in the world ever since. His dedication and perseverance paid off when he successfully cracked a mysterious case on his very first day on the job. However, his supervisor, Ching Ying Hung, harbored feelings of jealousy towards Yat Jeen's success and deliberately assigned him a perilous task to apprehend a notorious killer, WanTin Bong. Throughout his mission, Yat Jeen crosses paths with Foon Hei, who repeatedly comes to his rescue. Despite their conflicting allegiances, Yat Jeen starts having visions of himself as Liang Shan Bo from the Butterfly Lovers legend. He becomes convinced that his relationship with Foon Hei is the modern-day manifestation of the legend, believing they are destined to be star-crossed lovers. The unexpected arrival of Wu Dip, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, further fuels Yat Jeen's vivid imagination and fantasies surrounding the Butterfly Lovers tale.

During the transition from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China, China faced a period of upheaval. The clash between modernity and tradition was evident as the country was filled with individuals claiming supernatural abilities, such as sorcerers and necromancers. Among these frauds were Kong Xue Li, a young policeman, and Fang Dong, a clever coroner, who teamed up to debunk myths and expose con artists using their knowledge of science. When a series of sinister events plague the city, the pair must intensify their efforts to combat the looming threat. Kong Xue Li also finds himself drawn to a bold and charming restaurant owner amidst the chaos. Can this trio bring peace and safety to the city besieged by terror and violence?

The man from the Joseon era who traveled through time in search of genuine flavors! A captivating culinary drama featuring Joseon Diner Heo Gyun. Heo Gyun, a forward-thinking individual who envisioned a society free from status distinctions and discrimination, faced opposition in Joseon and eventually faced exile. In an unexpected twist, he found himself transported 400 years into the future, arriving in Seoul in 2024. Working alongside a mother and daughter who saved him, Heo Gyun initially enjoys his new life but soon finds himself embroiled in a mystery as he takes on the role of chef in the restaurant and investigates a murder.

The plot revolves around a messenger who encounters the rebirth of his former romantic partner. (DramaWiki)

The tale revolves around the 48th inheritor of the Yang Warriors martial arts technique, who battles monsters and enhances his abilities to emerge as a genuine hero. Yang Xiao Lang has never been fond of mastering martial arts. Disappointed by his lack of drive, his grandmother sends him to live with his uncle Liu Guo, who manages the Zhonghua restaurant in Jiangcheng. In this unfamiliar town, Yang Xiao Lang becomes entangled with the police, the Qinglong Clan, and foreigners. In order to defend Xiao Fan, the woman he loves, Yang Xiao Lang must rise to the occasion, relying on his intelligence to combat injustices and bring glory to his family.

A group of passionate young individuals come together to establish a detective agency with a mission to uncover the truth. Known as the Young Blood Agency, this investigative team operates during the Republican era and is committed to unraveling enigmatic cases. Despite gaining a positive reputation for their successful investigations, the mysteries they encounter are intertwined with unresolved conflicts from the past. As the four members of the agency delve deeper into their cases, they come to realize the complex ties that bind them together.

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

The main focus of the narrative revolves around Tan Zhen Ying, who serves as the official in charge of Songjiang County during the Qing Dynasty, and his administrative office known as "Qingtianyamen

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

During the day, Feng Qing Yu runs a hotel, but at night he transforms into Gu Xiao Yu, a man caught in a dangerous time loop with a concealed identity. His encounter with the intelligent fortune teller Lu Yun Sheng leads them to work together in unraveling the mystery, but their investigation is complicated by the sudden reappearance of his enigmatic childhood companion. (TMDb)

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")