Asian dramas like
The Queen Who Crowns

In a fictional historical drama, Lee Tae becomes the ruler of Joseon after his father, King Sunjong, removes the previous king from power with the assistance of Park Gye Won. Lee Tae aims to govern as a supreme monarch, but faces opposition from the powerful Park Gye Won. Amidst this power struggle within the royal court, Yoo Jung, a noblewoman believed to be Lee Tae's wife, gets caught in the middle.

In the fictional land of Dongbangguk, Hwa Ri is the youngest princess in the royal family. Raised with a strong sense of independence, she decides to take matters into her own hands when it comes time to marry. Venturing outside the palace, she meets potential suitors while also searching for the artist behind a series of provocative paintings featuring her likeness. Among the candidates is Choi Hwan, a wealthy merchant known for his good looks and charm. Despite his reputation for enjoying the finer things in life, he harbors a mysterious secret.

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

This drama explores the life of King Jeong Jo, the 22nd ruler of Joseon, who is celebrated in Korean history as one of the nation's finest kings, known for his compassion for the people and his governance aimed at benefiting the common folk.

Woo Hui holds the title of queen in Goguryeo. After her husband, the king of Goguryeo, passes away unexpectedly, she faces a crisis as various princes and the 5 tribes vie for power. In order to safeguard her family and tribe, she resorts to a levirate marriage strategy. Her challenge is to wed one of her deceased husband's younger brothers and secure the throne for them, all within a tight deadline of 24 hours.

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

Troublemaking princes within the palace are causing headaches for the royal family and are on the verge of becoming proper crown princes. Their mother, Im Hwa Ryeong, is married to a distinguished king. However, instead of exuding elegance and grace, she is described as prickly, sensitive, and quick to anger. Once more composed, she has changed due to constant provocation. She is a queen who occasionally sets aside her pride and is even known to use strong language. Despite facing daily challenges, she endures them all for the sake of her children.

After the downfall of Dan City, Princess Dan Li sustains an injury from her childhood friend Su Mu under suspicious circumstances. Fortunately, she encounters Emperor Zhaoyuan Qin Yu, who heals her before exiling her to a forgotten realm due to her flattery. Supported by her clumsy yet devoted companions, including a trustworthy sorcerer and attendants, the romance between a scatterbrained princess and a haughty, stoic emperor gradually unfolds. (WeTV)

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

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.

A drama centered around the life of Kim Cheo Seon during the Joseon Dynasty. Kim Cheo Seon served as a devoted and faithful eunuch to several monarchs, including the 5th King, Munjong, and the 10th King, Yeonsangun, throughout the Joseon period. This era was marked by intense political turmoil within the kingdom. Born as a posthumous child, Cheo Seon was separated from his mother at birth and raised by Weol Hwa and the elderly Swe Gwi, who managed the eunuch academy. Upon meeting So Hwa, the daughter of a powerful noble, he instantly falls for her. To be near So Hwa, he willingly becomes a eunuch and is assigned to serve Cho Chi Gyeom, a senior eunuch. Once inside the royal palace, he witnesses King Sung Jong and So Hwa spending their first night together, and he takes on the role of her devoted protector. As palace intrigues unfold among the courtesans and wives, So Hwa is selected by the king to become his queen, and Cheo Seon pledges his loyalty to her. However, So Hwa eventually loses her crown and departs from the palace in disgrace. Cheo Seon watches in despair as events transpire, secretly assisting So Hwa. Tragically, he is ultimately tasked with carrying out her death sentence by delivering her a bowl of poison. After her demise, he cares for her son, King Yeon San, as if he were his own child.

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.

The remarkable narrative of chairman Park Tae-joon, who achieved the seemingly unattainable success, alongside a range of fictional tales that illustrate Korea's economic development.

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.

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.

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)

During the 18th century in Korea, Prince Yi San is haunted by his father's murder and aims to become a compassionate ruler who reforms the kingdom's laws. He is next in line to the throne after his harsh grandfather, the current king, passes away. At court, he meets Sung Deok Im, a spirited and intelligent young woman. While Yi San falls in love with her and proposes she become his concubine, Sung Deok Im struggles with the limitations and duties of royal life. As their love grows, she sees the potential for positive change in the kingdom through their relationship.

Set against a captivating backdrop that intertwines history and modernity, the narrative centers on Chef Yeon Ji Yeong, a meticulous French-trained culinary expert at the pinnacle of her career, who unexpectedly finds herself transported to the royal palace of the past. There, she must prepare meals for the notoriously volatile tyrant, King Yi Heon, a monarch with an exquisite palate and a quick temper. Yeon Ji Yeong, a contemporary woman, navigates the ruthless dynamics of palace intrigue, survival cooking, and unforeseen romance. Her goal? To endure the challenges of the royal kitchen, win the heart of the formidable King, and perhaps alter the course of history. King Yi Heon, a leader known for his keen intellect and sharp criticism, instills fear and misunderstanding among those around him. With an unmatched appreciation for flavor and an intolerance for mediocrity, his court constantly dreads his next dining experience. However, when a passionate new chef enters his realm, not only do his taste buds begin to evolve, but his heart might follow suit as well.

In 1941, a group of Chinese soldiers, under the leadership of Pan Tiande, were defeated by the Japanese forces. They sought refuge in the Soviet Union by seeking assistance from the Soviet army. Officer Natasha took on the responsibility of training them. Through the subsequent military engagements, Pan's patriotism and courage deeply touched Natasha, leading to a romantic relationship between them. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Pan chose to contribute to the country as a mechanic, while Natasha pursued a career as a Soviet mechanic specialist after completing her education. As they were preparing for their wedding, Natasha received orders to return to the Soviet Union, resulting in a heart-wrenching departure. Natasha later wrote to Pan, informing him that she had settled near the border, eagerly awaiting his return.

The global situation is often likened to a game of poker, where Taiwan finds itself unable to secure a seat at the table. Despite not being the focal point of world affairs, Taiwan serves as a battleground for various countries. "Island Nation" is a political drama set against a backdrop of historical events, following the stories of six young individuals who become entangled in Taiwan's political landscape. As they navigate through power struggles and make difficult choices regarding faith, life, and love, they use their ideals and youth to navigate through a turbulent era, showcasing the evolution of Taiwan's democracy during the presidency of its first elected leader from 1990 to 1994.

During the seasons of Spring and Autumn, the nation was protected by King Wu's sons, Bo Jian and Zhong Hao. Bo Jian was born to Madam Zhao, while Zhong Hao was born to Concubine Wu Xian. King Wu was filled with happiness upon the birth of his two sons, and the entire country celebrated. Bo Jian was appointed as Wei Xuan Wang's successor by defender Wu Wangxuan, and Zhong Hao was given the title of Yong Jia Hou. Han Ying Zhu sought revenge against Hong Shun in the capital for his father's death, with Bo Jian's assistance in bringing Hong Shun to justice. Both Bo Jian and Zhong Hao developed feelings for Ying Zhu, who agreed to marry Bo Jian. Zhong Hao, yearning for power, found himself at a loss.

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)

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.

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)

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

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.

In order to escape her abusive stepmother, Lu Zhen decides to seek refuge in the palace as a servant. Due to her exceptional pottery-making skills, she quickly rises in status. Despite capturing the affection of crown prince Gao Zhan, their love is thwarted by societal barriers and envious adversaries. Lu Zhen dedicates herself to politics and aids Gao Zhan in overcoming a coup. Although she cannot become his empress, Gao Zhan appoints her as the female prime minister, the highest position in the kingdom.

Spanning more than 70 years, the series chronicles the rise of Kublai Khan and the events that led to the establishment of the Yuan dynasty in China. Born in 1215 as the son of Tolui, who was the fourth son of Genghis Khan, Kublai's ascent to power was met with treachery from T regene, the wife of Tolui's brother, gedei. T regene viewed Tolui as a threat to her husband's claim to succession, especially as Tolui gained more recognition for his military victories. Despite being favored by his grandfather, Genghis Khan, Kublai faced opposition from T regene who sought to eliminate Tolui's entire family. After Tolui's death by poison, his sons, led by M ngke, sought revenge. T regene accused M ngke and his brothers of plotting against the empire, but Kublai and his mother, Sorghaghtani, managed to mediate the conflict. Escaping from T regene's grasp, Kublai and his family regrouped and slowly expanded their influence. Following the deaths of gedei and G y k, M ngke entrusted Kublai with crucial duties. After M ngke's demise, Kublai engaged in a power struggle with his brother Ariq B ke, emerging victorious to secure his position as Khan and establish the Yuan dynasty in China.

A century after the establishment of the Communist Party of China, Faith Makes Great showcases various historic tales depicting the relentless efforts of the people to achieve their goal of revitalizing the nation. The main themes include: "Ice and Fire" focusing on Shougang workers transitioning to ice-surfacing for the Winter Olympics, "173 meters" highlighting the Lanyu Railway Construction, "Rock Sugar" narrating Deng Jia's role as the chief commander of atomic bomb theory design, "The Next Hundred Years" showcasing the restoration of cultural relics in the Forbidden City, "Family" following a Medical Aid Team, "Button" exploring the first small private business, "Time Train" depicting high-speed rail construction, and "Your Eyes" portraying the protection of the Yunnan Golden Monkey. (ChineseDrama.info)

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 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 tale about Concubine Meng, a mischievous woman who initially clashes with the King but eventually falls in love with him. Meng is the daughter of a prominent official in the Sui Dynasty. Upon entering the palace, she is exposed to the deceit and schemes within the royal family. Choosing not to let others control her fate, Meng feigns illness. During her time in the palace, she befriends Concubine Yan, who is clever, Concubine Qu, who is emotional and loves food, and Concubine Xiao, a skilled martial artist from a family of generals. The four women quickly bond and become like sisters in the palace. Due to ongoing disagreements with Meng's father, the King decides to confront Meng one day, but unexpectedly finds himself drawn to her unique personality. Despite the King's efforts to spend time with her, Meng tries to avoid him. It is only after a chance meeting outside the palace that Meng begins to see the King's positive and endearing qualities.

At the onset of his rule, King Se Jong inadvertently leads to the demise of his in-laws and their servants while trying to protect them from his cruel father, King Tae Jong. Among the victims, two young slaves, Ddol Bok and his companion Dam, manage to survive, though they are unaware of each other's fate. Consumed by anger, Ddol Bok holds the king responsible and pledges to take revenge for the loss of his loved ones. Over the years, he hones his skills to become a formidable warrior. Meanwhile, Dam, who possesses a photographic memory, takes on the role of a court lady named So Yi. Burdened by guilt over her involvement in the deaths of the other slaves, she becomes mute. Ddol Bok infiltrates the palace under the alias Kang Chae Yoon with the intent to assassinate the king. However, he becomes entangled in the enigma surrounding the deaths of several scholars from the Hall of Worthies. These fatalities are linked to a clandestine organization known as "Hidden Root," which was established long ago by supporters of Jeong Do Jeon to shift power away from the king and into the hands of ministers. King Tae Jong had previously executed Jeong Do Jeon and his entire family, except for his nephew, Jeong Gi Joon, who is now the head of Hidden Root and lives incognito near King Se Jong.

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

Taking place in the Joseon Dynasty, the plot revolves around twins born to the Crown Princess Consort, who decides to have the daughter killed based on superstition. In order to protect her, the infant girl is sent away secretly. Many years later, Dam I, the twin sister, comes back to the palace, this time as a servant. Following the mistaken death of her brother Lee Hwi, their mother convinces Dam I to take on his identity. While keeping her distance from others, Dam I starts to develop romantic feelings for Jung Ji Un, her first love and later her tutor from a prestigious family.

Upon entering the palace gates, one is immediately struck by the profound depth within. While the palace may appear opulent to outsiders, it conceals the struggles of numerous imprisoned women. Xiao Cai Ren, for instance, relied on the emperor's favor to confront Concubine Wei, even resorting to plotting against her. Recognizing the need for strength and alliances, Concubine Wei navigated the treacherous palace life by forming bonds with other concubines, as well as princes and princesses from foreign lands.

During the chaotic downfall of the Great Ning Dynasty, Pei Shen Zhi uses the late emperor's decree to install Ning Jin Yi as a figurehead ruler. Despite her compliant facade, Ning Jin Yi quietly consolidates her authority and advocates for change within the regime. Pei Shen Zhi is captivated by her cleverness and gets caught up in her ascent as she eliminates dissent in the royal court.

The 47th NHK Taiga Drama follows the life of Atsuhime, born in Kagoshima Prefecture, which was known as Satsuma at the time. She married Tokugawa Iesada, the 13th shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, and rose to the highest rank in Ooku, the inner palace of Edo castle where shogun's relatives lived. After Iesada's death shortly after their wedding, Atsuhime took on the name Tenshoin at 23. She dedicated herself to the Tokugawa clan and the nation during the tumultuous Meiji Restoration, led by individuals from Satsuma. In 1835, Shimazu Tadatake and Oyuki, of the Imaizumi-Shimazu family in the Satsuma clan, welcomed a daughter named Okatsu, who would later become Atsuhime. Growing up as a spirited and compassionate young girl, Okatsu watched as the Satsuma clan underwent financial reforms led by chief retainer Zusho and her father faced consequences for his kindness towards farmers. Unable to understand why her father was punished, Okatsu confronted Zusho.

Ma Fu Ya, a royal member of the Chu region during the 10th century in China, finds herself in a tumultuous period marked by warfare and political unrest. Following the treacherous actions of her uncle who seizes the throne and eliminates her family, Fu Ya courageously embarks on a mission to seek vengeance for her loved ones and reclaim her rightful rule, regardless of the sacrifices involved. Caught in a complex web of relationships with Prince Meng Qi You of Shu and Prince Liu LianCheng of Northern Han, the banished princess becomes entangled in the power struggle within the Shu court and the ongoing conflict between their respective states. As she navigates through a landscape shaped by war, love, and deception, the question remains: what lies ahead for Fu Ya, her people, and her heart?

In the tale of Chen Xiaohua, a lazy ruler in the virtual realm, and the AI companion Madam Xiao/2099, they unite during Chen's turbulent times to confront corrupt officials, battle against enemy nations, and alter their destinies. Through numerous resets, they persist in restarting their lives, striving for redemption and success. Madam Xiao's military capabilities reshape her husband into a more law-abiding individual, aiding him in his journey to power. Initially a lazy king, Chen Xiaohua sheds his idle ways after encountering Madam Xiao, aspiring to be a diligent emperor. As their lives are repeatedly reset, watch how love overcomes the program's glitches, leading to their mutual salvation in a whirlwind of emotions.

A distinguished academic unexpectedly finds himself as the guardian of a playful princess. Gyeon Woo enjoys the reputation of being “Joseon’s National Treasure,” celebrated as one of the leading scholars of his era. When the king requests that he properly instruct his spirited daughter, Princess Hye Myung, Gyeon Woo realizes he faces a significant challenge. However, as rebels threaten Hye Myung and jeopardize her future rule, Gyeon Woo unwittingly steps into the role of her protector. What starts as a job he never anticipated transforms into a mission to save Hye Myung from a dire fate and secure her throne. (Viki)

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.

After losing her parents at a young age, Liu E journeys to the capital city of Kaifeng where she attracts the attention of Zhao Heng. Despite being a concubine, Liu E displays a keen understanding of political matters and frequently engages in discussions with Zhao Heng. This dynamic persists even after Zhao Heng ascends to the throne in 997. Following the adoption of a concubine's son (who later becomes Emperor Renzong), Liu E is named empress and assumes the role of regent for the Song Dynasty during the final two years of her husband's rule. Liu E continues to govern until her passing in 1033, twelve years later. This account draws inspiration from the remarkable life of Empress Zhangxian Mingsu, also known as Liu E of the Song Dynasty.

The 49th NHK Taiga drama, titled Ryoma den, is set during the Bakumatsu era and centers around Sakamoto Ryoma, a prominent figure from 1835 to 1867. Ryoma played a crucial role in the efforts to dismantle the Tokugawa Bakufu, leading to the Meiji Restoration. Additionally, he was instrumental in modernizing the Japanese navy by adopting western technology, which greatly contributed to the success of the revolution.

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.