Asian dramas like
The Kings Face

Pottery from the Joseon dynasty was distinguished by its superior quality and innovative firing techniques during the late 16th century. Baek Pa Seon, known as the "woman of fire," was the first female potter in Joseon and recognized as the master of Shintaro porcelain. Crown Prince Gwang Hae held a deep affection for her but ultimately had to part ways. This television series focuses on her formative years in Joseon rather than Japan, where a shrine honors her legacy. (MBC)

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.

In the chaotic era of Joseon, a captivating story of intertwined destinies emerges, where the previously clear waters of the Gyeonggang River have become a murky flow. Jang Si Yul, a man who conceals his history to navigate life as a gangster, Choi Eun, a quick-witted and principled individual, and Jung Cheon, an idealist aiming to be an upright official, find their fates connected in a realm where justice is rare and survival requires sacrifices.

During World War II, a band of anonymous soldiers courageously fought against the Japanese invaders as part of the Eighth Route Army.

During the spring of 1931, The Communist Party expanded their network by establishing communication stations in China. They then turned their attention to Western Europe and dispatched two agents, known as "Asthray" and "Porcelain", to Paris. This led to the unveiling of a series of clandestine agreements, deceitful acts, mysterious deaths, illicit romances, and alliances between military personnel and members of a notable family.

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.

The story takes place in historic Shanghai during the 1920s. After completing her education overseas, a young woman returns to China and becomes immersed in the societal changes happening around her. She crosses paths with a wealthy businessman from Shanghai and they develop romantic feelings for each other. The woman is a talented opera performer, but their love faces obstacles when various antagonists try to sabotage their relationship.

During the late 14th century, Goryeo faced rampant corruption and abuse of power, resulting in a mass exodus from government roles, leaving only the dishonest in positions of authority. Amidst this despair, a group of young individuals emerged, deeply committed to the principles of scholarship. These were the scholars of Sungkyunkwan, who aspired to restore peace to the world and represented the hope for Goryeo's future. Among them was Sambong Jung Do Jun, who held the conviction that the corrupt regime must be dismantled and that it was the scholars' destiny to create a visionary nation. (KBS World)

This drama revolves around a female lobbyist navigating the world of global arms dealers. Kang Tae Hyuk is the heir to a leading arms manufacturing firm in Korea. He is a young entrepreneur with an impeccable appearance and eloquent speech. Possessing a natural talent for lobbying, he is also an expert strategist. His ambition is to dominate the entire Asian market.

In 1929, the son of Liao Sheng Hui, the head of the police department in Tianjin, was unknowingly drawn into a complex scheme orchestrated by an unknown individual. This scheme led him to uncover the secrets surrounding a fire at the Shengnan Orphanage 14 years prior, a collection of mysterious Dunhuang cultural relics, a shocking series of poisonings that rattled the city, and the involvement of various factions such as the Communist Party, the Kuomintang, the Japanese, and the Beiyang warlords. Liao Sheng Hui faced numerous challenges as he delved into the puzzle, including formidable adversaries like the meticulous KMT special agent Zeng Jia Yang and the skilled Japanese ninja Ikuko. As the mysteries unraveled, the true motives of the Japanese and the Kuomintang were revealed, leading Liao Sheng Hui to a painful realization that he, Zeng Jia Yang, and Yu Zi were all connected to the orphanage. Despite their different allegiances, the three banded together to confront their common enemies, only to be defeated. When the anti-Japanese war erupted in 1937, the three comrades, now staunch communist fighters, reunited on the battlefield to fight against the common foe.

The narrative follows the relationship between Meng Li Jun, the skilled and attractive daughter of a high-ranking official, and Huang Fu Shao Hua, the courageous and good-looking son of a general. Their fathers' political differences led to General Huang Fu forbidding his son from pursuing Meng Li Jun. Instead, the Empress Dowager's nephew from the Liu family was chosen to marry Meng Li Jun. Following General Huang Fu's defeat in a battle, the Emperor accused him of treason and ordered the entire family to be imprisoned. Huang Fu Shao Hua managed to escape, prompting Meng Li Jun, who was in love with him, to disguise herself as a man in order to seek justice for the Huang Fu family.

The tale chronicles the events of the 20th century, depicting the struggles of the people amidst natural disasters and ongoing chaos. Hidden motives emerge, taking advantage of the turmoil for nefarious purposes. Small Lang Yang Yi, possessing the spirit of a dragon, becomes entangled in a treacherous battle in Shanghai due to a plague incident, where he encounters the Mayor Mo Xiaoyu and falls in love. Unbeknownst to many, Yang Yi also harbors a dark side, driven by a delusional quest for "longevity" that leads him to spread the plague artificially, profit from medicinal herb production, and orchestrate political assassinations and wars. His ultimate goal is to unleash the "six scourges" through blood sacrifices in order to ensure his own survival.

Princess Jung Myung was the last living direct descendant of King Seon Jo, and her arrival was joyously celebrated throughout the palace. She possessed the most charming smile imaginable for an infant. Queen In Mok felt a sense of relief upon giving birth to a girl rather than a boy. The seer Nam Sa Go had foretold that the child she bore would emerge as the true sovereign of the Joseon Dynasty, a king of kings; however, the existence of a princess contradicted that prophecy. Unfortunately, the chaotic period that followed took a severe toll on Princess Jung Myung. After King Seon Jo's passing, Gwang Hae took the throne, and his first actions were to eliminate Prince Yeong Chang and expel Queen In Mok from the palace. Princess Jung Myung soon became his next target. Realizing the threat to her daughter's safety, In Mok arranged for her to go into hiding. Nevertheless, assassins managed to find Jung Myung. Thanks to the brave sacrifice of her bodyguard, she escaped on a boat that drifted aimlessly in the ocean. Meanwhile, her bodyguard and nanny set their own boat on fire, sacrificing themselves to deceive the assassins. Jung Myung witnessed the flames engulfing her nanny and protector. Adrift at sea, she lost consciousness and was rescued by a merchant vessel bound for Dejima in Japan, where she was sold into slavery. To endure the harsh conditions, she concealed her royal identity and buried her memories of being a princess, focusing solely on her desire for vengeance. Disguised as a boy, Jung Myung labored in a sulfur mine but found a glimmer of hope in the form of a friendship with Ja Gyung, which helped her to endure. However, her ultimate goal remained clear: to return to Joseon and wreak havoc on Gwang Hae, the man who had taken everything from her. Eventually, an opportunity presented itself. She began trading information and secrets within the sulfur mines. Utilizing her strategic position, she followed the Joseon delegation back to her homeland. At last, her long-held dream of returning to Joseon had been realized… (MBC)

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 story takes place in the idealized chaos of China in the early 1900s, where patriotic rebels and deceitful spies clash in a risky battle for control of the republic. Gao Tian Wei, a brave revolutionary, experiences amnesia following a violent altercation. Without knowledge of who he is, he is unknowingly drawn into a plot and transforms into a spy for the Japanese. What will occur when his memory is eventually restored?

The series revolves around the challenges faced by the main character as she is compelled into a marriage with a high-ranking official of the Kuomintang, also known as the National party.

The plot revolves around a Chinese woman attending college who switches roles with her twin sister, a Japanese spy

Taking place in the Republican era, Cheng Ci Hang is a respected law enforcement officer known for his unwavering dedication to justice. However, his life takes a twist when he becomes entangled in a series of mysterious murder investigations and embarks on a tumultuous romantic journey with a woman.

Qu Yuan, a gifted child from a respectable family, finds himself in an unexpected romance with Mo Chou Nu, a slave. Their love is hindered by their social differences, leading them to face numerous challenges as they navigate through political intrigues and palace schemes in their quest to be together. The narrative also chronicles Qu Yuan's gradual efforts to protect his nation.

In a tale of ambition and self-discovery, a man from a small town relocates to the city with his mother and best friend in search of employment. They stay temporarily with an old acquaintance of his, who finds himself caught in the middle of a conflict between labor union members fighting for their rights and ruthless employers seeking to suppress their protests. As the man navigates the complex political landscape, he rises through the ranks of society. However, he grapples with inner dissatisfaction over the person he has become. Eventually, he discovers a newfound sense of purpose and a cause that transcends material wealth and influence.

Sin Yun Bok is a skilled artist who masquerades as a male in order to track down her father's killer

Po Chung Ling was born into a family known for their expertise in New Year prints, in the city of Jinan. He is highly intelligent, and his father, Po Poon, has always hoped that he would continue the family tradition. However, Ling believes that Poon is involved in corruption with some officials, leading to a strained relationship between them. Ling's close friend, Ko Jit, who is a constable, shares his disdain for corrupt officials. There are rumors circulating about a troublesome fox spirit in Jinan, and when Ling and Jit investigate, Ling is almost fatally injured. Thankfully, a mysterious girl named Ling Wu Siu Tsui saves him just in time. It is later revealed that Tsui is the fox spirit, and she saved Ling as a way of repaying a debt from the past. As they grow closer, Tsui begins to develop feelings for Ling. Meanwhile, the Po family receives a large order for New Year prints and must hire many female workers to complete the job on time. One of the applicants, Lau Sum Yu, has ulterior motives - she is seeking revenge on a man who wronged her sister. Little does she know, she will soon find herself entangled in a love triangle involving Ling and Jit.

The drama depicts the life of politician Kim Doo Han through a mix of reality and fiction. Kim Doo Han, son of the renowned general Kim Jwah Jin, trained in martial arts after his father's passing and rose to become a leader in Seoul's Jong Ro area, determined to defend his fellow Koreans against the Japanese. He faces opposition from Goo Ma Juk, the Seoul boss who seeks to hand over the city to Japanese developers, with the assistance of Hyashi, a Korean man living as a Japanese. Despite these challenges, Kim Doo Han strives to preserve Korean culture and eventually transitions into politics following the Korean War.

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.

The narrative centers around a crown prince named Lee Sun, who battles the Pyeonsuhwe organization that wields total control over the kingdom and monopolizes the water supply through privatization. This drama weaves together elements of romance, action, and courtly intrigue as Crown Prince Lee Sun valiantly fights for the welfare of his people, while Han Ga Eun unexpectedly finds herself falling for him instead of seeking revenge for her father's execution at his hands. In “The Emperor: Owner of the Mask,” there are palace conspiracies related to the true authority behind the throne, along with a surprising twist when the prince swaps identities with a commoner. Ultimately, the central theme of the series is love, which permeates the romance between the prince and his beloved, as well as their shared compassion for the nation and its citizens. (MBC)

The South Korean President takes a vacation at a secluded villa. In the dead of night, three shots ring out, and the president disappears. His security team, headed by top agent Han Tae Kyung, has a limited timeframe of three days to locate the president and ensure his safe return to the Blue House.

In Wangsha Village, Macau, a determined young man named Lin Wei Liang courageously revolted against colonial authority by assassinating Shavard, the Portuguese colonial governor of Macau, thus symbolizing Macau's fight for independence

The story follows a smart and compassionate woman who enters the inner court as a concubine, using her love for the people to make significant contributions to the country. While the palace politics may be familiar, the narrative is captivating and engaging.

A new piece of literature that offers fresh insights into the character of Lee Bang Won, a prominent figure who played a key role in the establishment of the country. (Naver)

During the year 1941 in Shanghai, a man caught the attention of the Japanese for resembling a suspected BIS spy. He was drawn into the perilous world of espionage but under the guidance of another individual, he comes to understand his duties as a loyal citizen and devotes himself to resisting the occupation forces. Chen Shan survives by trading intelligence on the streets. Mistaken for BIS agent Xiao Zheng Guo, Chen Shan's sister Chen Xia is abducted by Japanese spy leader Huang Mu Wei in order to manipulate him into cooperating. To rescue his sister, Chen Shan undergoes rigorous training and proves to be an outstanding spy. Assuming the identity of Xiao Zheng Guo, he infiltrates the BIS headquarters in Chongqing and embarks on a dangerous mission where a single mistake could be fatal. Despite never intending to betray his homeland, as a Chinese national, Chen Shan encounters Zhang Li, a woman with strong convictions, and gradually transforms into someone willing to sacrifice everything, even his own life, for the greater good of his country.

Taking place in the Han Dynasty, this story revolves around the villainous Dowager Empress Lu's quest for immortality through a special potion. Liu Xuan, the protagonist and protector of the Liu clan who established the Han Dynasty, finds himself torn between loyalty to the Empress and his brother Liu Xiang. Three women are vying for Liu Xuan's affection, leading to uncertainty about his fate and the Empress's ultimate demise.

A notorious femme fatale, So Yong utilizes her innate beauty, charm, and intelligence to capture the affection of the King and secure her position among his royal concubines. King In Jo becomes infatuated with So Yong, allowing his royal responsibilities to fall by the wayside. Capitalizing on King In Jo’s weaknesses, So Yong seizes his authority and wields complete control over the nation. She even aligns herself with a rebellion led by her stepfather. When Crown Prince So Hyeon returns home after seven years in captivity, he aims to modernize his country by introducing advanced scientific methods and cultural practices. Nevertheless, the young prince poses a danger to So Yong, prompting her to scheme against him and persuade the King to poison his own son. Following Prince So Hyeon’s demise, Kang Bin, the Crown Princess, uncovers So Yong's treachery. Collaborating with the courtiers, Kang Bin seeks to overthrow So Yong and reclaim the kingdom. However, So Yong is cunning and determined to maintain her grip on power. Thus begins the ruthless saga of the Bloodied Palace. (JTBC)

Gu Han Sen, a prominent figure in Shanghai, took in two sons during the early years of the Republic of China - Liao Si Cheng and Fang Tian Yi. The two adopted sons, along with Gu Han Sen's daughter Ting Gu, grew up together like true siblings. Fang Tian Yi, a kind and honest young man, valued their sibling bond above all else. Despite his unrequited love for Ting Gu, he kept his feelings hidden after learning of her feelings for Liao Si Cheng. The trio bravely fought against the Japanese invasion and played a crucial role in the War of Liberation. Gu Han Sen, aware of his daughter's feelings for Liao Si Cheng, attempted to arrange their marriage, but Liao Si Cheng prioritized his duties over personal matters. He joined the BIS, with Ting Gu and Fang Tian Yi following suit. Years later, they were unknowingly involved in a conspiracy while intercepting Qing treasures as part of a team led by Liao Si Cheng.

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.

During the year 1943 in Shanghai, Chen Qian, a military operative, was tasked with eliminating the Japanese forces, but ended up being ensnared by Yujiro Ida, the leader of Japan's plum organization

Lee Lin Yin and On Tak Hoi, who both came from humble backgrounds, were sold into servitude as palace eunuchs when they were young. Under the guidance of senior eunuch Lau Dor San, they formed a strong brotherly bond and rose to prominent positions serving Empress Dowager Ci Xi. However, Tak Hoi's greed strained his relationship with the cautious Lin Yin. As the head eunuch, Chan Fuk felt threatened by their rising influence and began scheming against them. Fortunately, Lin Yin received support from palace maid Sin Yung and eunuch pharmacist Yiu Seung Hei. Meanwhile, tensions rose as Emperor Tong Zi prepared to select his empress, causing concern for Empress Dowager Ci An that Ci Xi would gain more power. To counter this, she allied with the Grand Prince to weaken Ci Xi's position.

Obsessed with wealth and authority, Cheuk Yuk ignores his family and friends, leading to the deaths of his wife and mentor. Rather than feeling remorse, he becomes even more consumed by his desire for money and power. His brother-in-law, Chow Sun Yung, a diligent CCB inspector, is determined to bring him to justice. With the help of his superior, HO Sheung Yee, and subordinate, Chi Nga, they gather evidence against Cheuk Yuk. Sun Yung holds Chi Nga in high regard and sees her as his protege, but she shocks him by resigning and joining forces with Cheuk Yuk. Winning the trust of Cheuk Yuk's second wife, Fong Ming Yu, Chi Nga assists in handling Chai Pui Fun, a prominent figure in finance. It appears that Chi Nga has taken control, thwarting Cheuk Yuk's ambitions.

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.

A romantic thriller unfolding in the chaotic era of Shanghai. (DramaWiki)

Altering one's appearance comes with many unknowns. It's hard to predict whether such a method will have positive or negative outcomes for those who choose to undergo it. The Kingdom of Chu has always been governed by members of the Chu family, but this changes when Feng Ru Ge seizes power. Over the past fifteen years, the Crown Prince has been patiently waiting to reclaim what was lost. Feng Ru Ge's goddaughter, Jing Shu, has been skilled in skin painting since childhood. She traded a face for a life with Zhao Ru Shi, unknowingly receiving Lue Ying, a notorious assassin, in return. Lue Ying's sole purpose is to assassinate the Crown Prince, who is also Jing Shu's betrothed, setting the stage for a tumultuous tale of love and hatred.

As a young man, Bao Zheng travels to the capital to take part in the civil service exams. Along the way, he encounters a series of puzzling events that lead him, along with Gongsun Ce and Zhan Zhao, on a quest to solve mysteries. The story unfolds in three main parts: Bao Da Niang unwittingly becomes entangled in a case, prompting Bao Zheng to clear his mother's name and uncover a dark past involving a ghostly bride. During his journey to the capital, Bao Zheng stays at the Wuji Inn where he cleverly unravels the secrets hidden within the blood spirit forest. Ultimately, the discovery of a potential conspiracy in the palace points to Soul Village as a key piece of the puzzle.

Zhu Di, the fourth offspring of Zhu Yuan Zhang, develops into a skilled military leader and tactician after gaining extensive experience on the battlefield serving under general Xu Da. Maneuvering through political conflicts within the royal court, he solidifies his position in Beiping in order to protect the Ming Dynasty. Following the passing of Emperor Taizu, his heir Zhu Yun Wen betrays the Zhu imperial family, leading Zhu Di to lead a rebellion.