Asian dramas like
The Red Sleeve

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.

Prince Yi In, who was taken captive by the Qing Dynasty, faces betrayal from his own brother, King Yi Seon, whom he once trusted. Despite his emotional turmoil, Yi In finds solace in a mysterious baduk player who captures his interest. As he rises to power, Yi In struggles with his emotional vulnerability. Kang Hui Su, a talented baduk player, falls in love with him but later becomes a spy with a mission to seek vengeance against the king.

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.

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.

A young lady from the Eight Banners' lineage weds the Emperor and rises to become the Empress Dowager, overcoming numerous plots and deceptions. Throughout her journey, she evolves from a compassionate and intelligent girl to a ruthless and scheming woman.

Upon first setting eyes on Yin Li Hua, Liu Xiu instantly knew she was the one for him. He expressed his desire to serve as a chamberlain of the imperial insignia and to have Yin Li Hua as his wife. Ultimately, Liu Xiu went on to establish the Eastern Han dynasty, reclaiming the throne for the House of Liu after it was taken by Wang Mang in 9 AD. (cfen.si)

Describes the love story between Dong Ge and Huang Tai Ji. Dong Ge, hailed as the most exquisite woman in Later Jin (Jurchen), was born with a prophecy stating she could either usher in prosperity or chaos to the world.

Sheng Chu Mo, born into a life of privilege as the son of one of the Tang Empire's founders, initially lived a carefree existence with no goals or ambitions. However, everything changed when he met Fu Rou, a merchant's daughter. Inspired by her greatness, Chu Mo decided to improve himself and earn her love. As he dedicated himself to studying and growing, he also volunteered to defend the coast from pirates, following in his father's footsteps. Meanwhile, Fu Rou pursued a career as a master weaver in the royal palace, getting involved in dangerous palace intrigues. Despite facing numerous obstacles and enemies, Chu Mo and Fu Rou must rely on their intelligence and skills to overcome these challenges and save their country and their love.

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.

"Dong Yi" is a historical series that tells the story of Dong Yi, who later became known as Choi Suk Bin. Initially, she served as a humble water maid in the royal palace. King Sok Jong chose Choi to be his concubine, and she later gave birth to Yeong Jo, his second son, who would go on to become the future king of Joseon. Following Yeong Jo's birth, Dong Yi would be elevated to the status of Suk Bin.

In the story, Jang Hyun, a stoic individual, discovers a new sense of purpose in life when he crosses paths with the delightful Gil Chae

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)

Set against the backdrop of the shift from the Goryeo to the Joseon dynasty, two friends find themselves at odds because of their contrasting beliefs regarding "my country." Seo Hwi, a formidable warrior and the offspring of a celebrated commander, cannot stand injustice, which leads to turmoil in his life, even as he wears a smile. On the other hand, Nam Sun Ho, a bright and gifted individual, endures prejudice because of his mother’s low status. A scandal involving corruption tarnishes his father's reputation, causing Nam Sun Ho to forfeit his aspiration of succeeding in the military service exam, further escalating his conflict with Seo Hwi due to a misunderstanding.

After being involved in a car accident, Zhang Xiao finds herself transported back in time to inhabit the body of Maertai Ruoxi, a 16-year-old noblewoman from the Manchu tribe living in the Qing Dynasty. Despite her awareness of the dangers of meddling in palace politics surrounding the throne's succession, Ruoxi becomes entangled in the power struggle due to her feelings for someone and the affection she receives from others. This story is inspired by Tong Hua's novel "Bu Bu Jing Xin."

The narrative takes place during the Northern Song dynasty and centers around Sheng Ming Lan, the unloved sixth daughter of an official who was born to a concubine. Raised by her grandmother after her mother's early passing, Ming Lan learns to conceal her intelligence and resorts to clever tactics to navigate the treacherous environment of her family, where deceit and lack of familial affection are prevalent. Her path crosses with Gu Ting Ye, the second son of a wealthy marquis household set to inherit both riches and a noble title. Unlike Ming Lan, Ting Ye is transparent in his actions and falls prey to the schemes laid against him, leading to his downfall. Ming Lan and Ting Ye team up, employing cunning strategies and bold initiatives to rise in status and seek justice against those who have wronged them.

Becoming an empress involves facing deceit and betrayal on the path to power. Ru Yi, a consort, adeptly maneuvers through the treacherous political landscape of the royal court to ascend the ranks. Despite achieving the title of Empress, Ru Yi must constantly navigate numerous plots and schemes against her. Even as she overcomes obstacles, her relationship with Emperor Qianlong deteriorates. Can Ru Yi hold onto her position as Empress amidst such challenging circumstances? (

Queen Won Gyeong, born into a respected family of government officials during the Goryeo period, married Yi Bang Won (Prince Jeong An), the son of King Tae Jo who established the Joseon dynasty. Despite King Tae Jo choosing his second son, Yi Bang Gwa, as his successor, Lady Min and her husband conspired to have Yi Bang Won take the throne instead. After Yi Bang Won became King TaeJong, he took on several concubines which led to conflicts with Queen Won Gyeong. As their relationship deteriorated, King Tae Jong attempted to exert control over her and her family in order to consolidate his power.

The Northern Wei Dynasty was destroyed overnight, leaving Princess Feng Xin Er as an orphan. Despite narrowly escaping death, she finds herself in enemy territory where she takes on the identity of Li Wei Young, the Prime Minister's daughter. Enduring numerous challenges, she ultimately uses her intelligence and commitment to justice to rise as a formidable figure and find love.

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Choi Cheon Joong was renowned as the foremost fortuneteller and physiognomist in Korea, as well as an adept gambler and martial artist. He is cherished by the citizens of the nation and is a staunch patriot. However, he now confronts his greatest challenge as he resolves to dismantle the corrupt regime governing the country, aspiring to install a virtuous young prince from a lesser royal lineage in their stead. Choi believes this prince is the perfect candidate to ascend the Joseon throne. Additionally, he identifies the ideal royal consort for the new ruler—a modest girl from the streets. Choi Cheon Joong must harness all his talents to assist the couple in seizing power, with support from Princess Hwang Bong Ryun, a woman who also possesses remarkable fortune-telling abilities. As they embark on this bold endeavor, they begin to develop romantic feelings for each other... (Viki)

Kang Eun Bo is resolute in her quest to seek justice for her twin sister’s murder during the deeply traditional Joseon Dynasty. To achieve her goal, she must secure the royal title of Queen, which entails winning the affection of King Lee Kyung, who prioritizes political stability over romantic pursuits. As Kang Eun Bo vies with other women for the king's attention, she discovers that he remembers her from a dream, leading to an unforeseen connection. Will she be able to uncover her sister's murderer while navigating the intricate dynamics of love and power?

The film narrates four poignant tales of a man's growth from adolescence to adulthood in the previous century, as well as his remarkable quest for a dream abroad

A dramatic story centered on a protagonist named Jeong Soon-geum, who flourishes in her ginseng enterprise along the Limjin River during the 1950s to 1970s.

After the passing of her father, Jo Bong Hee's family faces significant challenges. She navigates various hurdles to rise as the top fashion designer in South Korea.

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)

Li Zi Yun assumes the persona of Shao Chun Hua and starts working as a servant in the palace, forming a bond with Bai Han Xiang. Despite her desire for a quiet life, her cleverness attracts envy, leading Ling Qi Qiao to make things harder for her. After Emperor Ying Zong's passing, the ascension of the Crown Prince as Emperor Xian Zong sparks a rivalry among the women in the Royal Harem.

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.

In the Nan Su Kingdom, the dispute between Yu Qing and Yu Xiao will lead to factions forming within the court, as Mu Rong Li seizes the opportunity to further his own agenda. The quest for dominance and the scheming of court members will strain relationships among family and friends, while a king's pursuit of total control over the kingdom will cause him to disregard the familial ties that were once so important to him.

Qing Lian is satisfied with a simple life and dreams of finding a partner who truly loves her. However, she ends up marrying into the royal family against her wishes. Surprisingly, she learns that her husband, He Lian Xin, is not as cold and aloof as he appears. She supports him in handling difficult situations and gradually earns his love and admiration. Based on the online novel "XiFei Zhuan" by Xie Yu.

The narrative follows Ok Nyeo, a gifted young woman who grows up in prison and acquires remarkable abilities and insight through her interactions with exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds. She emerges as an advocate for the downtrodden peasant class and sets out on a quest to discover her rightful place within the caste hierarchy. Through Ok Nyeo's experiences, this television miniseries highlights Joseon’s esteemed tradition of human rights legislation, which she strives to implement across the realm. (MBC)

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.

Cheng Yue and Rui Shan are both talented musicians, with Cheng Yue being a pianist and Rui Shan a cellist. Despite being known as the most prominent couple in the music world, Cheng Yue's life takes a turn when he injures his arm while trying to save a girl named Xiao Lu from a car accident. This incident leaves him unable to play the piano, leading him to give up music and embark on a journey to escape his sorrow. Two years later, Cheng Yue finds himself living in Shanghai where he crosses paths with Xiao Lu, who is now his colleague. Through their work together, they develop a friendship that gradually deepens. Meanwhile, Rui Shan locates Cheng Yue and urges him to return to music, but it is Xiao Lu's encouragement and positivity that ultimately inspire him to rediscover his passion for life. Despite falling in love with Xiao Lu, Cheng Yue faces rejection from her, raising questions about the fate of their love story. Despite the challenges they face and uncertain future, Cheng Yue's love for Xiao Lu remains steadfast.

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.

Based on the book "Moment in Peking" written by Lin Yu Tang.

According to a prediction, the victorious one will be the one blessed by the priestess. Yang Xue Wu, the final priestess of her lineage, becomes involved in a conflict between Northern Qi and Northern Zhou without realizing it. Despite foreseeing the unfortunate destiny of Lan Ling Wang, the Northern Qi general, she still develops feelings for him and aids him in defeating Yuwen Yong, the Northern Zhou king, in battle. However, fate remains unchanged.

Within the realm of fiction, the Spirit, Snow, and Fantasy tribes are governed by the human race

Shen Yan, the maid in charge, has been by the Seventh Prince Chu Ning Yuan's side since childhood, helping him in his quest for power. Both of them have faced tragedies that have hardened their hearts and driven them to seek revenge. Their bond is built on mutual understanding in a world filled with darkness, with only each other to provide warmth. Despite Chu Ning Yuan developing feelings for Shen Yan, she remains indifferent and even goes as far as arranging his marriage to sabotage his plans for securing power. Seeing through Shen Yan's motives, Chu Ning Yuan becomes increasingly paranoid and is determined to keep her close to him at all costs.

Cha Kang Jin is the offspring of a barmaid named Cha Chun Hee. His life is challenging as he often finds himself in altercations and witnesses others mistreating his mother, yet he feels powerless to intervene. He encountered Han Ji Wan during their teenage years, but their relationship could not progress because Ji Wan fled. Eight years later, he crosses paths with Ji Wan again at her engagement ceremony to Park Tae Joon. However, he is devastated to see that Ji Wan acts as if she has forgotten him completely.

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.

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.

Park Dong Joo is a bright and capable high school student who, following the tragic loss of his father, was raised in a nurturing environment by his mother alongside his ill younger sister

Once a renowned surgeon at the height of his career in a leading hospital, Kim Sa Bu abruptly abandons it all to embrace a life of solitude, taking on the role of a local doctor in a small community

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.

During the 18th century in Beijing, Wei Ying Luo enters the Forbidden City in the 6th year of the Qianlong Emperor's rule, posing as an embroiderer to uncover the truth behind her sister's tragic death. Suspecting Imperial Guard Fuca Fuheng, Ying Luo cleverly gains the trust of his sister, Empress Fuca Rongyin, and becomes her maid. The Empress, impressed by Ying Luo's cleverness and determination, mentors her in reading and writing, while Fuca Fuheng develops feelings for her and aids in her investigation. As Ying Luo discovers the innocence of the Fuca siblings, she turns her focus to other palace residents in search of the real culprit, all while safeguarding the Empress from palace schemes and climbing the ranks herself.

Cha Moo Hyuk was taken in by an Australian family but faced abuse and ended up homeless during his childhood. One day, he encounters Song Eun Chae, who works as the coordinator for Choi Yune, a renowned singer in Korea, with whom she is secretly infatuated. This chance meeting with Moo Hyuk significantly impacts not only her own life but also that of her beloved Yune. After a tragic incident involving his former girlfriend, Moo Hyuk learns he has only three months to live, prompting him to return to Korea in search of his birth mother. The revelations he uncovers transform his feelings from yearning to a desire for vengeance. Despite the surrounding darkness, he unexpectedly finds a source of joy in someone he never anticipated loving.

In the Longhua era, eunuch Xiao Duo conspired with Fu Wang to help him claim the throne. Bu Yin Lou, a lady-in-waiting who was supposed to be buried with the late Emperor, is saved by Xiao Duo. Despite her status as the emperor's companion, she is spared death because Fu Wang is interested in her. Bu Yin Lou then resides at Xiao's residence, where their bond deepens over time. However, they must keep their feelings hidden due to the many challenges ahead. What lies ahead for their destinies is uncertain. (ChineseDrama.info)

Fifteen-year-old Ikeuchi Aya is a typical girl from a family involved in running a tofu shop, getting ready to start high school. Recently, Aya has been experiencing unusual symptoms such as frequent falls and difficulty walking. After a visit to the doctor with her mother Shioka, they learn that Aya has been diagnosed with spinocerebellar degeneration. This devastating illness causes gradual deterioration of the cerebellum in the brain, leading to difficulties in walking, speaking, writing, and eating. The story is adapted from the diary of Kito Aya, the inspiration behind "1 Litre no Namida," who battled the same disease and passed away at the age of 25.