Asian dramas like
The Qin Empire Season 3

During the Warring States period in the mid-fourth century BC, the Qin state in western China experienced significant political transformations. Facing the threat of annexation by six other states due to internal strife and poverty, Duke Xiao, the young ruler of Qin, aimed to restore his state's former strength and reclaim lost territories. Duke Xiao enlisted the help of talented individuals, including the renowned statesman Shang Yang. Together, they implemented extensive political and economic reforms over a period of twenty years. These changes elevated Qin into a formidable state with refined legal and military systems, setting the stage for its eventual unification of China under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC.

A TV show from China that depicts the historical events of the Battle of Changping, which took place between the Qin and Zhao states in the Warring States era. (Wikipedia)

The narrative revolves around the life of Dae Jo Yeong, who is recognized as the founder of the Balhae kingdom.

The novel "Qin Empire" by Sun Hao Hui portrays the events that occurred in China during the Warring States era, focusing mainly on the Qin state under the leadership of King Huiwen and King Wu. Duke Xiao, the ruler of the Qin state during that time, enlists the help of statesman Shang Yang to implement daring reforms that bring about significant changes in Western China. This information is sourced from Wikipedia.

The tale of King Geun Cho Go, the warrior monarch of Baekje, unfolded during a time when the kingdom flourished. His leadership saw military victories that enabled him to dominate a substantial portion of the Korean peninsula, leading to a significant increase in political influence, which marked the pinnacle of Baekje's historical power.

Taking place during the era of conflict in ancient China known as the Warring States period, the show follows the narrative of Sun Bin, a relative of Sun Tzu, as he faces off against his adversary Pang Juan. (Wikipedia)

This show revolves around the story of Qin Shi Huang, the inaugural ruler who brought together China under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC.

During the late Warring States period, the Qin State emerged as a dominant force with the help of leaders such as Ying Zheng, Lu Bu Wei, Li Si, and Wang Jian. Together, they worked to bring the six states under one rule, leading to the establishment of the Qin Empire as the first dynasty of Imperial China. King Zhao Xiang's aggressive tactics helped the Qin State gain strategic advantage over the other states. Following the deaths of King Zhao Xiang and King Xiao Wen, disputes over legitimacy arose within the royal court. Lu Bu Wei, a influential merchant, sought to seize power by supporting the exiled prince, Ying Yi Ren. The eldest prince eventually resolved the political unrest by leaving the capital. Despite facing difficulties in battles against Zhao, Qin continued its ambition to conquer all lands. Ying Zheng, with guidance from Lu Bu Wei, began to demonstrate leadership qualities as he returned home with his mother, Zhao Ji. To secure the throne for her son, Zhao Ji and Lu Bu Wei allied against Huayang Furen. Ying Zheng embarked on a ruthless journey towards becoming an emperor, utilizing those around him to consolidate power.

The play portrays the exciting and daring experiences of Wang Zhao Jun, a member of the Four Beauties from ancient China who were capable of influencing kingdoms with their stunning looks. Wang is celebrated not just for her remarkable beauty, but also for her intelligence and strength. This highlights the influence of women in a society that is predominantly male-dominated.

The plot revolves around Emperor Wang Gun, who established the Goryo Dynasty.

To ensure Koryo's independence, Gong Min Wang wed a woman he had no affection for. With Mongolian forces in control of Koryo, he took the Mongolian princess as his wife, believing this alliance might eventually lead to Koryo's liberation. Shin Don, a Buddhist monk, was a key advisor to both Queen Nokuk and King Gong Min in their governance of Koryo.

Chung Nyeong, born as the third prince, was far from being in line for the throne. His formative years were marked by turmoil as Korea dealt with political strife both internally and externally, and he even faced the threat of abduction during his childhood. As he grew, the young prince found himself residing in a private home outside the palace, experiencing the daily lives of ordinary citizens until he reached young adulthood. Upon eventually taking the throne, Chung Nyeong, who became known as King Se Jong, worked to stabilize the newly established nation and fostered the flourishing culture of Joseon. During this time, he also created Hangul, the writing system used in Korea.

This play is set in the tumultuous Spring and Autumn Period and recounts the famous tale of Gou Jian, the King of Yue, who experienced a downfall and subsequent resurgence. Following his defeat, Gou Jian was taken captive and made a slave by King Fu Chai of Wu. Pretending to be obedient and loyal while secretly plotting his revenge during his captivity, Gou Jian eventually earns the chance to go back to his homeland of Yue. When he resumes his rule, Gou Jian strengthens his kingdom with the assistance of skilled advisers and politicians such as Fan Li and Wen Zhong, while also weakening Wu internally through bribery and strategic diplomacy. The phrase "Wo Xin Chang Dan" symbolizes Gou Jian's perseverance and self-imposed challenges meant to constantly remind himself of the humiliations he endured while under Wu's control. - Lady Zhuge.

A historical drama showcases the challenges encountered by Emperor Qin Shi Huang following the unification of the Empire: the ambitious construction of a new highway, growing public dissatisfaction, and political schemes endangering the palace.

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

During times of turmoil, individuals with extraordinary abilities often come to the forefront, much like Lv Bu Wei did during the tumultuous Warring States period in China. As the era drew to a close, Lv Bu Wei journeyed as a trader through the Zhao state before eventually aligning himself with the Qin state. This alliance proved significant as the Qin state, under the rule of Qin Shi Huang, successfully united China for the first time, marking the beginning of China's imperial era.

Following the events of the first season, the story centers around Zhong Wu Yan, who gives birth to an unusual prince and is subsequently imprisoned in the cold palace by King Qi. Their relationship transitions from apathy to reconciliation before rekindling their love. The Spring and Autumn Period and Warring States Period were marked by constant warfare, with survival being a struggle for many. Despite this, King Qi neglects his responsibilities as his Queen, Zhong Wu Yan, is banished to the cold palace. Over time, the King becomes infatuated with Xia Ying Chun and wrongly places his trust in Wei Wen Bin, a former enemy who has now surrendered. Unbeknownst to him, Wei Wen Bin and Xia Ying Chun are scheming a rebellion, but Zhong Wu Yan's foresight prevents disaster and saves King Qi. Regretful of his actions, King Qi releases Zhong Wu Yan from the cold palace, but their reconciliation is hindered by the disappearance of their son. Meanwhile, Wei Wen Bin and Xia Ying Chun persist in their plot to overthrow the state of Qi, even manipulating the King of Chu into starting a war. In order to prevent further bloodshed, Zhong Wu Yan leads an army to defend her homeland.

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.

A Chinese TV show that tells the story of King Goujian from the ancient state of Yue during the Spring and Autumn period. (Wikipedia)

During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States Era, turmoil reigns as feudal lords engage in endless warfare, causing suffering among the people. To alleviate humanity's plight, the sixth daughter of the Jade Emperor, Zhong Li Wu Yan, descends to earth. Formerly a heavenly goddess known for her kindness and compassion, she cannot bear to witness humanity's downfall and volunteers to help them by incarnating into a humble family in a small village. Despite her unattractive appearance, Zhong Li Wu Yan possesses unparalleled skills. In the midst of this chaos, Qi Xuan Wang, the ruler of the powerful Qi State, ascends to the throne but shows no interest in governing. It is fate that brings Zhong Li Wu Yan to the palace, where she becomes a consort to Qi Xuan Wang.

In the era of the Warring States, Li Hao Lan is expelled from her household and sold into slavery despite being the daughter of the Public Censor of Zhao. She is bought by Lu Bu Wei and given to Ying Yi Ren, a Qin Royal serving as a hostage to ensure peace between the Qin and Zhao states. Their arrival sparks a perilous conflict, forcing them to use their cunning to stay alive. Can Hao Lan achieve triumph over the challenges in her life? (Viki)

In the waning years of the Eastern Han Dynasty, a complex web of power struggles, political scheming, and military aspirations unfolds as leaders, warlords, and government officials compete for supremacy. (Netflix) Derived from the book "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" by Luo Guan Zhong.

The story revolves around Moo Hyul, the grandson of Jumong, who is fated to bring harm to his parents, siblings, and son, ultimately leading to the downfall of Goguryeo. (DramaWiki)

A historical drama depicting the events of the second and third phases of the Goryeo-Khitan War, where King Hyeon Jong of Goryeo and his mentor, Commander-in-Chief Kang Gam Chan, rallied the Goryeo people to fight against the Khitan forces. This adaptation is based on the novel "Goryeo-Khitan War: Sweet Rain in The Winter" by Gil Seung Soo.

He adored her and sacrificed his kingdom for her, but their destiny did not align. She aspired to be the Emperor's consort and eventually took control of the empire, only to find that he was not by her side.

Lord Xin Ling, a prominent figure among the 4 gentlemen in the Warring States Period, develops feelings for the lovely Ru Ji. However, Ru Ji chooses to marry his brother, King An Xi of the Wei state, instead. Refusing to be just a concubine in the palace, Ru Ji seeks to utilize her intelligence and skills. Little does she know, her actions will play a crucial role in rescuing the state of Zhao and altering the course of history.

This drama takes inspiration from one of Korea's ancient folk songs. Suh Dong, the unrecognized son of the king of Baekje, ultimately ascended the throne with the assistance of Princess Sun Hwa, the offspring of the Silla king, defying all challenges along the way.

The ebb and flow of ruling families and the succession of rulers are determined by the Mandate of Heaven. Ruco Chan wields significant influence in the court, possessing both power and riches that rival the nation itself. He holds a position of authority closer to that of the Emperor! Despite his title, Emperor Shaun Tam lacks real authority and is a victim of the changing times. He governs with less power than the common people! In just 28 days, a clash between power and justice will unfold. The ultimate question remains: can man overcome divine will, or is the Mandate of Heaven inviolable?

The narrative follows the individuals residing at the base of the mountains in North-eastern China, who, guided by the Communist Party of China and the Anti-Japanese Allied Forces, stood up against the Japanese invaders to protect their country

In ancient China during the Spring and Autumn period, the four prominent families in the Qi state were engaged in fierce competition for political power. Despite their fathers' rivalry, Sun Wu and Guo Wujiu formed a strong friendship and received military training from the renowned strategist Tian Rangju. In the Chu state, Wu Zixu became a fugitive after his father was falsely accused of treason and his family was wiped out by King Ping of Chu. With the help of Sun Wu and Wujiu, Wu Zixu found refuge in the Wu state. The situation in Qi worsened when the Sun clan launched a surprise attack on the Guo and Gao clans, leading to a violent conflict. Wujiu managed to escape from Qi and viewed Sun Wu as his bitter rival from then on. He settled in Chu and became a general. Meanwhile, Sun Wu, devastated by the events, roamed until he settled in Wu state. Through Wu Zixu's introduction, Sun Wu was appointed as the military leader by King Hel of Wu. Sun Wu began his successful career by writing The Art of War and showcasing his strategic brilliance in leading the Wu army to victory in battles against rival states.

The plot revolves around Kwangjong, who served as the monarch during the reign of the Koryo Dynasty from 918 to 1392.

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)

The television drama depicts the story of Jang Yeong Shil, a scientist, inventor, and technician from the Joseon era. Born into the lower-class nobi, Jang Yeong Shil catches the attention of King Se Jong, who invites him to the royal palace. The king offers him an opportunity to showcase his talents. Throughout the series, he creates various inventions, including astronomical devices, an iron printing press, and a water clock.

This series is inspired by the tale of Lu Bu and Diao Chan from the novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms. (DramaWiki)

The plot revolves around Bai Wen Huan, who is the head of the Northern Shaanxi Brothers Association

During the 1930s in Shanghai, Peng Yu Tian, a National Army officer, bravely fought against the Japanese forces and was gravely wounded. He was saved by Lei Jin Yi, a field nurse, and the two developed a deep bond. Just as they were preparing to wed, Peng was called back to the battlefield. Tragically, Peng's family was targeted and bombed by the Japanese. Lei managed to escape with Peng's child and later assumed a new identity as Shen Han Bing, working as a dancer to support her family. Meanwhile, Peng, believing Lei had perished in the bombing, went on to marry a wealthy businessman named Wu Jiang. However, fate brought Peng and Lei back together when they crossed paths at a party hosted by Wujiang. As a member of the Communist underground, Peng was tasked with investigating Wu Jiang, and sought Lei's help in uncovering the truth. It was ultimately revealed that Wu Jiang was a Japanese spy posing as a Chinese. After the Anti-Japanese War, Wu Jiang attempted to flee with Lei, but was apprehended and met his end at the hands of Peng and Lei.

During the late 1930s in northern China, a rebel named Jie Zhen Guo must use Western sorcery to outwit his Japanese adversary.

In 1942, in the northern region of Fujian, Qian Wei Min, a member of the underground CCP party, was tasked with retrieving the "Wuyi Cadre School List" from the leader of the Sun Mountain known as "Balchangcao", as well as collecting military funds for the New Fourth Army. Meanwhile, Xue Zi Qi, the head of the Kuomintang's Special Intelligence Bureau, had devised the "Zhong Kui Operation" to capture the "Cruise officinalis" with the help of Qian Wei Min. The Japanese espionage leader Toshiro Tanaka aimed to exploit this situation to further their plans for invading China. However, Qian Wei Min uncovered the Japanese spies' scheme just as he was about to carry out his mission. He joined forces with Xue Zi Qi to thwart the Japanese plot and successfully put an end to their plans, leading to a victorious outcome.

Following a violent attack on China by the Imperial Japanese Army, a Chinese academic residing in Boston, Wu Ming Tai, chooses to go back to Beijing to translate a crucial document for the UN. This document provided evidence of the Japanese army's atrocities in China. Nevertheless, the Japanese military leader was informed of the professor's journey back to his homeland. The army was willing to go to extreme lengths to stop Wu Ming Tai from returning, such as kidnapping his sibling and coercing him to become a Japanese national.

In ancient times, the legend tells of the Zhaotong Youth River Blade, commanded by Xiao Heng, as they battled the Japanese forces from Yunnan.

The presence of Sima Yi's swords and Zhuge Liang's fan suggested an upcoming conflict. Part 2 will explore the dynamics between Sima Yi and Emperor Wei Cao Rui. Sima Yi's position as a key figure persists through the reigns of Cao Rui and Cao Fang, during which he faces his most formidable opponent.

In a time of military expansionism, He Tao Hua's father, a highly respected military official, was killed. Adopting a new persona, Tao Hua embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her father's murder. By 1925, the He Family had been wiped out, leaving only He Tao Hua alive. She ventures to a different city and finds employment as a servant for the Liao Family. Her quick wit and charm win over Old Master Liao, while she also forms a romantic relationship with Young Master Liao Chun Feng. However, just before their wedding, Liao Chun Feng learns of her true identity and, unable to bear the burden, confesses before leaving to join the war effort. Recognizing her feelings for him, He Tao Hua decides to pursue him despite the challenges that lie ahead.