Asian dramas like
The Merchant Gaekju 2015

This drama revolves around the romantic relationship between King Jung Jong and Queen Dan Kyung, who was both crowned and ousted within a single week due to opposing political factions that influenced the king’s governance. As per historical accounts, following the queen's removal from the palace, the king would visit the outer royal pavilion daily, letting out a sigh as he looked towards a mountain in her direction. In response to this, she placed a red skirt, her favorite attire from her time in the palace, on a rock on the mountainside as a way to reassure him of her well-being and her enduring feelings for him.

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)

Secret Door explores the struggle between King Yeong Jo and Crown Prince Sa Do during the longest reign in Joseon history, which lasted 52 years. King Yeong Jo seeks to establish a powerful royal authority, whereas Crown Prince Sa Do advocates for equality among all individuals.

In the intricate world of finance, Cheuk Yat Yuen mistakenly believes that con artist Sa Fu Loi is his long-lost half brother, Cheuk Yat Ming. This fortunate error propels the swindler into a prominent position within the banking industry. Yuen's affection for Fu blinds him to the true nature and intentions of the con artist. However, Yuen's life takes a dramatic turn when he is abducted by a group of rioters while overseas, leading to a significant shift in his personality. Despite the efforts of his wife, Ho Tseuk Nin, to comfort him, Yuen struggles to overcome the traumatic ordeal. Seeking solace elsewhere, Yuen rekindles a relationship with his former flame, Tung Ling Chi, devastating Nin upon discovery of the affair. Meanwhile, Fu finds solace in assuming the identity of Cheuk Yat Ming, experiencing a sense of familial warmth and even embarking on a romantic journey with Yuen's younger sister, Cheuk Yat Sum. However, Sum, under the mistaken belief that they are biological siblings, conceals her feelings for Fu and remains committed to her admirer, Ko Tok Man. This revelation deeply wounds Fu, torn between his love for Sum and the inability to disclose his true identity. Ultimately, faced with the choice between love and wealth, Fu opts for the path of fortune, navigating a complex web of money, love, and ethical dilemmas in a gripping tale of deceit and desire.

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)

A shoe manufacturer in Taiwan will be caught in a dramatic feud within the industry due to the affection of Mu Dan, a young woman who sells vegetables at the local market. The company's master shoemaker, Huang Zheng Yi, has two apprentices - his son Huang Rong Can and an adopted son Liu Mu Cheng, whom he treats equally. However, when both brothers fall in love with Mu Dan, their relationship shatters and has long-lasting effects on the industry. The show originally aired with 80 episodes, each lasting 60 minutes. It was later rebroadcast with 40 episodes, each lasting 90 minutes.

Due to her inability to conceive, Da Ma has always been neglected by her spouse, Rong Yao Hua. Upon discovering his passionate affair with Yan Hong, a courtesan, she takes matters into her own hands by projecting her desires onto Xiu He, a humble farmer's daughter who reminds Da Ma of her own youth. Da Ma arranges for Xiu He to become a concubine in the Rong family, hoping she will bear a child for them. However, Yao Hua's cousin Yao Hui ends up marrying Xiu He instead and falls in love with her.

After leaving the orphanage, Do Yeong found her home and employment in a public bathhouse. Yeo Ok, the leader of Deo Group, takes a liking to Do Yeong, and with her assistance, Do Yeong changes her name to Jenny Jang and establishes a high-end fashion boutique. As a result, she rises to become a significant and influential figure in both political and business realms, discreetly addressing the challenges faced by the elite. Jenny's ultimate ambition is to ascend to the position of matriarch of the Deo family by leveraging the international city development initiative. Meanwhile, Yeo Ok intends to exploit Jenny's talents and plans to discard her once she successfully elevates Deo Group into the ranks of the top 10 corporations in Korea through the same project. To achieve her goals, Yeo Ok must keep her intentions hidden from Jenny.

Set against the backdrop of the Donghak Peasant Revolution (1894-1895), two half-siblings find themselves on opposing sides of the struggle. Baek Yi Kang, born to a wealthy yet infamous local official and a woman of the lowest social standing, endures scorn for his illegitimacy and humble origins. In contrast, his half-brother, Baek Yi Hyun, is well-liked, intelligent, and enjoys a life of privilege. Meanwhile, Song Ja In, the fearless and charismatic daughter of a powerful merchant family, aspires to become the leading trader in Joseon.

Following their family's unjust persecution orchestrated by a corrupt official, Dugu Jia Luo set high standards for herself to be self-reliant and resilient from a young age. Her spouse, Yang Jian, is a courageous man known for his prowess in battle, eventually ascending to the position of Emperor. Together, with Dugu Jia Luo's support, they successfully unite the nation under the Sui Dynasty. Despite their royal status, the couple remains faithful to each other and is revered by the people as two exemplary figures for their significant contributions to a prosperous era.

As a young girl, Tamaki Rei lost her parents in a tragic plane crash in France, leaving her to grow up in challenging circumstances with financial struggles. After twenty-three years, Rei finally visits the site of the accident where she meets Shibusawa Kazunari, who also lost his wife in the same incident. Kazunari, a budget director for the Ministry of Finance, and Rei fall in love and eventually marry. Kazunari has two adult sons, Hitoshi who follows in his father's career path and Kenji who is studying for the bar exam after graduating from law school. Rei's efforts to bond with Kazunari's sons and her striking beauty create tension within the Shibusawa family. Hitoshi becomes drawn to Rei, leading her to realize that her feelings for Kazunari are more about her longing for her late father rather than true love.

During the sixth century in China, the Emperor of Great Liang orders the unfair execution of his brother-in-law Marshal Lin Xie, the Lin family, 70,000 army soldiers, and Crown Prince Qi

Feng Zhi Wei, the disfavored daughter of the Qiu Family, is forced to escape under unfortunate circumstances. In debt to the 6th prince Ning Yi, Zhi Wei disguises herself as a man to enroll in the prestigious Qingming Academy and becomes the top scholar to the Emperor. She remains loyal and truthful to the ruling Emperor amidst the power struggle among the princes, all while developing feelings for Ning Yi as he delves into his past and seeks vengeance for his loved ones. Despite their genuine love, can they navigate through the deceitful plots and numerous obstacles in their path? Based on the book "Huang Quan" by Tianxia Guiyuan.

Managing director Kang Pil Ju is secretly scheming to dismantle the Chungah Group by leveraging his influence over the founding family

The events unfold during the decline of the Tang Dynasty. Li Jing Liu is a wealthy businessman, while Long Ao Yi is the head of the Longzhu Sect. A mysterious break-in rocks the city, setting the two powerful figures against each other. Long Ao Yi, the leader of the Lower Jiuliu, represents the lower class made up of performers, tailors, confectioners, matchmakers, thieves, burglars, and courtesans. On the other side is Li Qing Liu, a wealthy silk merchant and the influential leader of the Upper Jiuliu and the upper class. Despite their differences, the two must put aside their biases and shift from adversaries to allies as they navigate the streets of Chengdu, distant lands, and the royal court of the Tang Dynasty. Their journey takes them through battles in both the martial arts world and the business realm as they learn to work together.

After the occurrences of the first season, hordes of the undead are on the verge of invading the capital

Segodon depicts the story of Takamori Saigo, a historical figure who was the eldest son of a samurai from a humble background. Throughout his life, he faced exile on two occasions and was married three times. Takamori Saigo played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration but eventually led a rebellion against the government due to his discontent with the reforms of the Meiji era. (Wikipedia)

The character Heita in the story explores the concept of a "necessary evil" and grapples with moral dilemmas. After working in a construction company for four years, he is transferred to the business affairs department, which is often criticized by colleagues as the collusion department. Despite initial doubts, Heita becomes involved in securing a major contract and his company emerges successful. However, he faces scrutiny from a special prosecution team investigating political corruption.

The story unfolds during the Joseon Dynasty, following a young woman named Chae Ok who is separated from her brother after their father, a nobleman, is accused of treason. Despite this setback, she perseveres and becomes a Damo, a female detective of low rank. Skilled in sword fighting, she not only tackles crime but also confronts societal inequality. Meanwhile, her brother grows up to become a rebel leader fighting against injustice, leading to a dramatic confrontation between the siblings on opposite sides of the law. (DramaWiki)

Chuno narrates the tale of Lee Dae Gil, a nobleman whose life takes a tragic turn when Won Ki Yoon, a slave, sets fire to his home and flees with his sister, Un Nyun, who harbors feelings for Dae Gil. Fueled by a thirst for vengeance, he endures the brutal realities of life on the streets and establishes himself as a slave hunter, determined to locate Un Nyun, his first and only love. Meanwhile, Song Tae Ha, a General of the Army, becomes a slave after being wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and finds himself evading Dae Gil's relentless chase. The two men become enmeshed in a love triangle involving Un Nyun, who has transitioned from being a runaway slave to Kim Hye Won, the daughter of a nobleman.

Set in the era of the Joseon Dynasty, four individuals from diverse backgrounds unite to elevate Prince Lee Geum to the throne and transform the Saheonbu

Two decades following the IMF crisis, the narrative focuses on the conflict between the leader of the Financial Policy Bureau, who aims to divest Jungin Bank—teetering on the edge of insolvency and holding a third of the government’s ownership—and the Finance Chairman, who intends to hand it over to a private equity firm based in the Bahamas. Chae Yi Heon, an economic official, conceals his affluent background to gain respect based on his abilities. Heo Jae, the driven chairman, is prepared to go to any lengths to fulfill his ambitions, while Lee Hye Jun, a dedicated young employee just entering the workforce, prioritizes ethical principles.

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.

Genghis Khan established a vast empire that extended across significant areas in East Asia and Eastern Europe. Within the Yuan Dynasty, which he founded, there was a remarkable woman who wielded substantial influence for 37 years. She was not of Mongolian heritage nor Han Chinese; instead, she hailed from Goryeo, a minor kingdom in the Far East. Initially taken to Mongolia against her will as a Gungnyeo (court lady), she managed to rise above her humble beginnings to become the final empress in a foreign land. Her name was Empress Ki. (MBC)

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)

As the King of Joseon falls victim to smallpox, whispers of his demise start to circulate

The narrative revolves around a woman entangled in a violent love affair with two princes

In the midst of political turmoil and threats directed at King Lee Hun, a jester named Ha Sun, who bears a striking resemblance to the monarch, is summoned to the palace to serve as his stand-in

In the martial world, Tianji Tower seeks to overthrow the oppressive ruler Liu Zi Ye of the Liu Song dynasty. They plan to replace his sister, Liu Chu Yu, with their disciple Zhu Que, who bears a striking resemblance to the princess. Zhu Que crosses paths with Rong Zhi, a spy from Northern Wei, leading to misunderstandings and conflicting loyalties that strain the relationship between Liu Chu Yu and Rong Zhi. To seek forgiveness from Chu Yu, Rong Zhi stages his own death. Five years later, with their memories wiped clean, they reunite as Chu Yu is sent to wed the Prince Regent of Northern Wei, who is revealed to be Rong Zhi.

Zha Mei Le's journey began in her childhood when she learned about her parents' impending divorce and their reluctance to take her in. Determined to change their minds, she excelled in all aspects of her life, earning certificates and admiration from her colleagues and boss. Through her kind and caring nature, she met her boyfriend Han Yi Feng and won over his family, except for his brother Han Yi Lei. Despite their initial dislike for each other, Mei Le agreed to pick up Yi Lei from the airport as a favor to her boyfriend. As she worked hard to help Yi Feng achieve his dream of owning a bakery, she discovered his infidelity with a coworker. This revelation led Mei Le to develop feelings for Yi Lei.

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 1761, Ubashi ascended to power as the leader of the Turghut people. Around the same time, Catherine II of Russia increased her attempts to dominate the Turghuts. The oppressed Turghut population desired to rebel and reunite with their homeland in Dzungaria. Therefore, a decade later, Ubashi Khan led 170,000 fellow Turghuts on a significant journey in history known as the great long march.

In 1776, during the 41st year of Qian Long's reign, the court faced a financial crisis due to the need for funds for war. Official Akezhan was tasked with collecting donations from wealthy salt merchants in Yangzhou. Instead, Akezhan uncovered a significant corruption scandal that had deep implications for the nation. Fortunately, merchant Wang Chao Zong stepped in to assist by providing funds for the frontline and suggesting anti-corruption reforms. The aftermath of the salt scandal led to a widespread power struggle, unfolding during Qian Long's inspection tour of the southern regions, filled with danger and intrigue.

Gu Hao Min, the son of a prominent figure in the travel industry, is taken aback to learn that his father's wealth had disappeared suddenly. Now facing financial ruin, Hao Min is determined to recover his losses through sheer perseverance and effort. Unbeknownst to him, a more challenging struggle involving political scheming and corporate sabotage lies ahead as he and his partner strive to regain their former status. Set against the backdrop of Hong Kong's renowned tourist attractions, "Romancing Hong Kong" is not only a captivating series depicting the highs and lows of the affluent but also a poignant tale of the resilient and optimistic people of Hong Kong.

In this tale spanning from the 1960s to the 1980s, we follow the journey of a young woman from a once wealthy family who finds the courage to strive for success. Despite her delicate appearance, she possesses a strong and fearless tomboyish nature. Unafraid of challenges, she can easily catch and kill a fish. However, her one fear stems from a childhood incident where she almost drowned at the age of 7, leaving her terrified of diving. In contrast, Danson Tang portrays a cold and unemotional hotel heir whose heart appears closed off and whose words are harsh. Yet, he secretly longs for a bold and adventurous girl like her to love.

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.

The leader of the Divine Knife sect, Bai Tian Yu, met a mysterious end in Plum Nunnery at the hands of unknown attackers. Two decades later, Fu Hong Xue decided to leave the western regions and return to central China to uncover the truth behind his adopted father's death. Meanwhile, Bai Tian Yu and Hua Bai Feng's son, Ye Kai, also journeyed to the border town for his own reasons. They soon discovered that the mastermind behind the assassination was none other than Bai Tian Yu's sworn brother, Ma Kong Qun. Fate brought Ma Kong Qun's daughter, Ma Fang Ling, into Fu Hong Xue's life, while Ye Kai found himself falling for her as well. Together, they must confront Ma Kong Qun and the challenges that lie ahead.

The tale of Sima Yi, a skilled statesman and tactician from the Three Kingdoms period. Alongside him are his shrewd female family members, facing off against the powerful Cao Cao and his successors. Who will emerge victorious in the battle for ultimate power after defending Wei from the formidable Kongming? (Viki)

The story revolves around Ivan Ting Sin Bun, a successful businessman who was adopted by the founder of Ting Fung, a prominent gold merchant. Ivan soon discovers that his romantic rival, Richard Chung Sau Hong, is actually his long-lost brother. However, fate has been playing tricks on them from the start, as Richard not only competes with Ivan for a female lawyer's affection, but also harbors resentment towards Ivan due to a misunderstanding stemming from an illegal financial transaction involving Ivan's adoptive father, Ting Wing Bong. As the plot unfolds, there are numerous twists and turns involving death, legal and business disputes, love triangles, deceitful schemes, and betrayals all involving the people closest to Ivan. Chaos ensues when Oscar Ting, influenced by his uncle Wing Tung, accuses Ivan of forging their deceased father's will and conspiring to take control of the family business.

The tale unfolds in ancient China during the Southern Song Dynasty. Emperor Gao Zong falls victim to the deceitful premier Qin Hui, resulting in the execution of the loyal general Yue Fei. Qin Hui's followers gain control of the imperial court, causing rampant corruption within the government. Despite some upright ministers opposing Qin Hui, they are unable to confront him directly, prompting them to establish the clandestine group Haoxia to counter his influence. Eight individuals possessing unique skills and talents are invited to join Haoxia, marking the beginning of their courageous journey. The narrative progresses through various interconnected subplots and short stories, culminating in a climactic showdown between the heroes and Qin Hui's supporters.

In a divided world where six dominant clans compete, a poignant tale of love emerges. Jingnan Yi, a striking woman bearing a enigmatic peach blossom symbol, becomes enamored with a distant young man and becomes entangled in a perilous scheme. As her impending marriage approaches, Ye Lan intervenes by marrying into the influential Huangfu Clan as she strives to unveil her true origins and exact vengeance. Throughout her journey, she becomes ensnared in a romantic triangle involving Jingnan Su Mu and Huangfu Wei Min.

The narrative centers on two siblings, Shen Lin and Shen Fang, and their contrasting political views. Initially aligned with different revolutionary factions, they eventually united under a shared ideology and joined the revolutionary movement. Following the success of the Anti-Japanese War in 1945, Shen Fang, an operative in the Intelligence Department of the Kuomintang Military Command HQ, returned to his post. Collaborating with Mr. Ren, he uncovered traitors within his party, acquired the "Ganoderma Lucidum Plan", and thwarted the planned actions of the "Jinling Society". Despite receiving support from the organization, Shen Fang continued to struggle with physical and mental fatigue, as well as the ongoing threat posed by shrapnel in his brain. Compounding his challenges was the longstanding discord between his father and his brother Shen Lin, who harbored suspicions, confusion, and surveillance towards him. As a meticulously orchestrated "game" unfolded, the Shen brothers found themselves embroiled in a life-or-death struggle, navigating intricate puzzles, overcoming obstacles, and ultimately achieving a pivotal breakthrough towards victory.

Commander Zhang Xiao Mei of the Beiyi division, sibling of the pregnant Noble Consort, harbors a deep-seated grudge against Crown Prince Li Ye for framing and killing their father. When he captures Zhu Qing Zhu, a top spy for Li Ye, Zhang Xiao Mei seizes the chance to expose the prince's misdeeds. However, Li Ye pins the blame on Qing Zhu to evade punishment. Zhang Xiao Mei intervenes to save Qing Zhu from imminent death, feeling compassion for her despite being manipulated by Li Ye. As they grow closer, Zhang Xiao Mei and Qing Zhu discover their intertwined destinies and develop feelings for each other. But the crown prince resurfaces, unwilling to relinquish his power or let Qing Zhu find happiness with another man.

Oh Tae Suk serves as the head of the society news division, a determined individual who relentlessly pursues the truth, even if it means revealing uncomfortable truths about his father, a Member of Parliament. His conviction is echoed by Seo Woo Jin, a junior reporter who works under him. Together, they strive tirelessly to unveil societal injustices and the corrupt ties between the government and large corporations.

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)

Kyoko Hasumi, a former lawyer, left her career to focus on motherhood. Her husband, a high-ranking prosecutor leading a specialized investigative unit at the Tokyo District Prosecutor's Office, is arrested on corruption charges and embroiled in a scandal with another woman. As her life as a devoted wife takes an unexpected turn, Kyoko decides to return to the legal profession to safeguard her children. After a 16-year hiatus, she secures a temporary position at a law firm, marking her reentry into the legal field. This story is a remake of the American TV series "The Good Wife" [2009].

Bao Zheng, a successful solver of numerous cases in Kaifeng, is admired by the devoted young woman Yu Rou. Meanwhile, Liu E, the cherished concubine of the Song Emperor, collaborates with Zhang De Lin in an attempt to increase her influence. This information was adapted from Shi Yu Kun's novel "San Xia Wu Yi."

The series follows the journey of Comrade Chen Pi Xian as he navigates the reform and opening up period in Hubei Province while serving as the provincial party secretary