Asian dramas like
Trade War

In Headhunter, the narrative explores the shifting landscape of job security, moving away from the concept of lifelong employment. The film delves into the contemporary labor market, following Kurosawa (played by Eguchi Yosuke) as he navigates the world of talent scouting in the headhunting industry.

Set in the late 1990s and early 2000s, this business drama unfolds during a time when the Japanese economy faced a downturn post the bubble burst. Traditional Japanese companies were now vulnerable to takeovers by foreign investors. Masahiko Washizu, a former Japanese bank employee turned New York-trained fund manager, returns to Tokyo with a mission to acquire Japanese businesses. Over the span of eight years, the story follows the journey of this relentless businessman, known as the "vulture," as well as the ambitions, challenges, and dreams of those involved in corporate acquisitions.

Detective Mizunuma, along with his younger sister Rie who works at a document office, and psychiatrist Kamijo who manages a psychiatric clinic, collaborate to carry out a fraudulent scheme in order to repay their individual debts of 200 million yen each. Their first target is Inokuma Real Estate, a company that has profited from Social Security Agency regulations. Upon discovering that the company owns unsold land in Atami, the trio devises a plan to create a fictitious Elderly Housing with Care business to deceive Inokuma Real Estate into selling them the land.

Due to the impact of a robust yen, the worldwide financial downturn, and the competitive challenge posed by emerging economies, the Japanese manufacturing sector finds itself in a delicate position. A major electronics manufacturer is teetering on the edge of insolvency, with only a 3-month financial buffer remaining. In a covert initiative, three employees from the company - representing sales, finance, and production departments - collaborate to establish a reconstruction team and diligently strive to rejuvenate the company.

Ryo Ichinose is employed as a sales representative at a branch of Hashiba Electronics, a medium-sized electronics manufacturer known for its extensive history. Unexpectedly, he is instructed to relocate to the main office. Despite his lack of standout qualities, the newly appointed company president, Matsumoto, recognizes Ichinose's persistence as a salesperson and assigns him to a five-person team tasked with devising strategies to enhance Hashiba Group's management. Together, Ichinose and his colleagues travel to Vietnam to explore opportunities for reducing costs. During their time in Vietnam, Ichinose uncovers a bribery scheme linked to the contract work between the main office and the subsidiary, stemming from a new business initiative known as a licensing program, which has greatly impacted Hashiba Group. Determined to bring about change and align the company with ethical practices, Ichinose is committed to realizing not only his own aspirations but also those of his fellow team members.

Tatsuya Ikegami is employed by a real estate firm and is involved in a multi-billion yen urban development endeavor in the city of Sachio. In order to acquire the required land, Tatsuya must identify the landowners. To accomplish this, he conceals his true identity and becomes a member of the Sachio volunteer fire department. Here, he encounters fellow volunteer firefighters such as Sakura Azumi and Atsushi Goda. Initially, Tatsuya, who prioritizes results, struggles to connect with them, but eventually undergoes a change. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Tatsuya and his colleagues at the real estate company, who are advocating for an alternative project site, escalates.

In a period of economic instability in Japan, Masahiko Washizu heads a foreign investment firm and faces backlash for his aggressive investment strategies. He endeavors to acquire a struggling bank and another company during their financial downturn.

Murakami Shinsuke is an expert in corporate consulting specializing in personnel restructuring. He strategically guides employees towards voluntary retirement through one-on-one interviews. The storyline revolves around workers who are compelled to reflect on the significance of their jobs in the midst of impending layoffs. -- NHK

Taeko is employed at a financial institution that is affiliated with a foreign country. She is tasked with reviving a small company that has recently been acquired. Taeko faces challenges from the employees of the company, who are focused on advancing geothermal power as a potential energy solution. Initially seeing her new role as a step down, Taeko commits herself to turning the small company into a successful venture. This story is adapted from Jin Mayama's novel "Maguma."

Leaving behind his life on the streets, a young individual forges a new path by starting a business that opens up fresh possibilities—and attracts formidable adversaries.

Kuroe is employed as a delivery driver at the delivery firm "Elephant Express," situated on a quiet shopping street. Each day, she operates a compact truck to transport her parcels, each filled with distinct narratives from the senders and recipients.

The secondary branch of the main office "Sasima Construction" represents a medium-sized construction firm. It vividly portrays the dynamics between the main character known as "hyper OL mask" and those around her.

Tsukuda Kohei used to lead the development of a space rocket but left the Space and Astronautical Science Agency due to the rocket launch failure. He now manages Tsukuda Manufacturing, a small factory in the historic downtown area. On the other hand, Teikoku Heavy Industries unveiled plans for a homegrown rocket launch during a press event. However, the project hit a snag when Zaizen Michio, the Aerospace Division's chief, discovered that the patent for the crucial engine component technology had already been filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing. In a desperate attempt to secure the patent, Zaizen offered Tsukuda 2 billion yen. But...

Tomishima Heita has been employed by a construction firm for three years, initially working on construction sites before being moved to the sales department. He becomes entangled in bid-rigging schemes within the company and learns that his father's death was linked to similar illegal activities. Now faced with the decision of either exposing the wrongdoing as a whistleblower or shielding the company he is employed by.

In a run-down shopping district, Shinoda Mariko stars as the owner of a clothing store with a unique talent for instantly knowing a customer's clothing size. The narrative will revolve around her interactions with various patrons. (Credit: JapanBullet)

Isoyama Takeshi, a temporary worker at a company, receives news from his employer that he will remain on a fixed-term contract with no possibility of becoming a permanent staff member. At home, his wife Seiko and 12-year-old daughter Nanami often criticize him. Adding to his troubles, a real estate investment he made secretly ends up with unexpected consequences, leaving him struggling to keep up with mounting interest payments. Encountering a mysterious elderly woman, he hatches a plan to vanish for 7 years in order to be legally declared dead and start anew.

Arimoto Hikari, a 32-year-old woman who is married with a son, visits her father Taizo after he collapses from overworking. The doctor informs Hikari that her father only has 4 days to live. Despite her initial resistance, Hikari decides to take over her father's company as he had originally intended for her. However, she encounters challenges such as her husband traveling to America for work and facing opposition from some employees like Katsumata and Junzo. This story is inspired by Suwa Takako's novel "Machi Koba no Musume."

Inspired by actual events at Aizawa Hospital in Matsumoto City, Nagano, a struggling hospital on the brink of financial ruin is plagued by poor management and insurmountable debt. Dr. Shuhei Arihara, sacrificing a successful career in Tokyo, returns to his roots to rescue the hospital from closure. With the help of Ryosuke Kurashima, Deputy Chief of Shinkai Bank's Lending Division, they work together to implement necessary changes to revitalize the hospital and thwart a covert bank-led takeover.

Taking place during a time of fierce competition in the hotel industry, the story portrays the downfall and struggles faced by Hotel Platon. (Wowow in Japan)

Komukai Riko embarks on the "Dream Crazy" project with her university peers Shinji and Asai. She presents her service idea to Inuzuka from the startup support program "Dog Run", but faces a setback when her proposal receives a critical evaluation. Additionally, she questions the term "mass production type" used by Nakano Kyoko, a member of Dog Run. Riko is encouraged to explore new ideas and stumbles upon a model shop while taking a different route than usual. With the encouragement of the shop owner, Yassan, she decides to try her hand at creating plastic models.

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.

Natsuko Miyamoto, a 48-year-old stay-at-home mother to two children (Hana, 20, and Kotaro, 17), is taken aback when her husband Akira, aged 54, reveals his plans to leave his job and pursue his passion for agriculture. Feeling motivated to find her own employment, Natsuko encounters obstacles due to lack of experience and her age. However, a surprising turn of events leads her to discover potential job opportunities at a disorganized supermarket. (DramaWiki)

Kohei Tsukuda used to work for the Aerospace and Science Exploration Agency before taking over his father's small factory, Tsukuda Industries. Despite facing challenges in his relationship with his daughter Rina, Tsukuda Industries has seen some improvement in its operations. However, Tsukuda's focus on developing a rocket engine has led to a decline in business. The situation worsens when a major client suddenly decides to stop working with Tsukuda Industries and the company gets sued by a competitor, Nakashima Industries, for patent infringement. This results in damage to Tsukuda Industries' reputation and financial struggles with banks. In the midst of these difficulties, Teikoku Heavy Industries offers to purchase a patent held by Tsukuda Industries for 2 billion yen.

Kimijima Hayato is employed by a large manufacturing corporation and strives for success in his career. Despite being considered for a promotion, he objects to a project led by his superior, resulting in his demotion to the role of general affairs chief at a factory in a rural area. Additionally, he is tasked with managing the company's rugby team, the Astros. Once a strong team, the Astros have faced a series of defeats recently. Kimijima Hayato aims to improve his reputation within the company by transforming the Astros into a competitive force, despite his lack of rugby knowledge.

Emiru Yoshitsune, a 22-year-old newcomer in the field of social work, is tasked with assisting individuals in need of public aid

The head of the Corporate Social Responsibility department at Kadokura Trading, 53-year-old Miyama Asako, is enthusiastic about a new project to establish schools in villages across Asia. However, she receives unexpected news from the senior managing director that she will be reassigned to the foods business as an advisor due to the company's policy of rotating managers at a certain age. Despite not having the freedom to choose her new role, Asako is fully occupied with various responsibilities and neglects her personal appearance. Through this process, she gradually recognizes the actions she needs to take to benefit society.

Sawano Natsumi, a college student residing in Shonan, Kanagawa Prefecture, was inspired to introduce the famous pancake restaurant Eggs n Things to Japan after a life-changing experience in Hawaii

Harashima Hiromi started her career at Yotsuba Bank's main office right after finishing college. Due to her strong sense of justice and a past incident, she was transferred to a subsidiary company three years ago. Now, as part of a project highlighting successful women, Hiromi has been appointed as the head of the Corporate Sales Division at the Taito branch. Tasked with revitalizing the struggling branch, she is using her customer-centric approach to implement innovative changes with vigor and determination.

Shindo Tatsuya has dedicated himself to his role as a game designer at Dynamic Dream, a company specializing in game development. This position has been his aspiration since his early school years. After nine years with the company, Tatsuya is promoted to a managerial role, overseeing a new game project. Despite his excitement, he faces challenges with his team members, each with their own unique quirks, causing delays in the project. As the release date approaches, Tatsuya investigates and discovers that someone is sabotaging the project. Can he and his team overcome these obstacles to successfully finish the game?

At the café "NONKI," a group of five friends who used to work there part-time during their college days met up again. Despite all being 25 now, they still have a great time reminiscing and catching up like old times. Kosuke, now a sales representative at an advertising agency, joined his former colleagues at the café as they shared updates on their lives. Sanae shared how her long-term boyfriend suddenly mentioned breaking up after eight years together since high school. Asumi, in a loving relationship, Naoki who works at a supper club, and the younger Kazuma each had their own concerns, but when they reunited, their bond remained strong. On their way home, Sanae walked alongside Kosuke and opened up about her uncertainties regarding intimacy in her past relationship. Kosuke surprised her by suggesting they explore it together now, leaving Sanae reeling from the idea after ending a long-term relationship at 25.

In the story, a man named Okatani Wataru chooses to turn a blind eye to his wife's affair while secretly gathering evidence and navigating the challenges of a father fighting for custody of his daughter. This plot is based on the manga series "Rikon Shinai Otoko" by Ohtake Reiji.

The plot of this series revolves around the novel "Bakabon no Papa yori Bakana Papa," depicting the daily lives of the writer, her father who is a manga illustrator, and other members of their family.

In August 1949, Wu Shi, who was expected to greet the liberation in Fuzhou, was unexpectedly appointed by Chiang Kai-shek to serve as the Deputy Minister of National Defense for the National Government. To gather more intelligence, Wu Shi decisively traveled to Taiwan to assume his new role, following the directives of the party organization. He took advantage of his position to relay crucial information to the East China Bureau of the Communist Party of China, including updates on troop strength changes on Kinmen Island and the mobilization of the national army during the Southwest Campaign. Although Zhu Feng initially planned to return to Shanghai, he discovered that Wu Shi's previous courier had passed away, and the organization required a new courier to Taiwan. Consequently, he selflessly relinquished the chance to reunite with his family and went to Taiwan alone. Wu Shi and Zhu Feng collaborated closely, transmitting numerous important intelligence reports. In February 1950, however, Wu Shi, Zhu Feng, Chen Baocang, Nie Xi, and others were tragically captured and perished in Ximachang Town, Taipei, due to betrayal. Nonetheless, the troop deployment map of Zhoushan they provided was instrumental in aiding the People's Liberation Army's successful liberation of the Zhoushan Islands, contributing significantly to the national liberation effort.

The Labrador Retriever named Quill had his life changed when he was selected to undergo training as a guide dog, separating him from his mother. Unexpectedly, he was later paired with a reluctant man who eventually became his partner. Despite their initial differences, an incident brought them closer together, marking the beginning of their journey as companions. As they walked together, the man experienced a newfound sense of freedom and appreciation for life through Quill. Their bond deepened each day until they faced a sudden and heartbreaking separation.

Mihoshi Taiyo serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Sunshine Fund, an investment firm, and describes himself as a human investor. He strongly believes that assets represent individuals and should not be easily disposed of by investors. Mihoshi Taiyo engages with individuals facing personal or professional challenges, offering to collaborate on a new business venture to reignite their aspirations.

Derived from the manga series "Office Worker Kintaro" by Motomiya Hiroshi.

Yamato Construction Company merges with Chuo Construction Company. Yajima Kintaro comes back from Africa and puts in great effort to rescue Yamato Construction Company. However, a formidable new adversary emerges.

Ayumu Ichinose aspires to become a professional shogi player. Following his father's passing, he takes on part-time jobs to support his family while working towards his dream. At 22 years old, he is presented with his final opportunity to pass the professional exam. Unfortunately, he falls short once more when his mother suffers a breakdown from overworking. In a bid to assist him, his mother secures an internship at a trading firm. Despite lacking social skills and formal qualifications, Ayumu is met with skepticism. Undeterred, he persists, understanding that giving up would mean losing everything.

Akitsu Wataru serves as the supervisor of the Toyama location for Maruo Holdings, a well-known supermarket chain. Following a certain incident, he is reassigned and relocates to a rural area with his family. Unexpectedly, Akitsu is summoned back to the main office to lead the compliance department. The CEO and board members harbor undisclosed intentions. The company faces multiple harassment problems, which Akitsu resolves using innovative approaches and strategies.

Kotoha Ninomiya is employed in the general affairs division of a sweets company. Unexpectedly, she is instructed to switch to the public relations department, where she struggles. To add to her troubles, Kotoha Ninomiya discovers that Atsushi Imagawa, whom she has hidden feelings for, is preparing to wed another woman. The two have been close friends since childhood. Devastated, she attends Atsushi's wedding ceremony. During the event, she is touched by Kumi Kuon's congratulatory speech. Kotoha Ninomiya is renowned for her exceptional skills as a speechwriter.

After the passing of his mentor, Ryunosuke Yamato, Kintaro decides to leave behind the corporate world in Japan. He goes back to his hometown and starts a new life as a fisherman with his wife, Masumi, and their two children. Unexpectedly, Ryunosuke's cousin, Momotaro Shimazu, pays him a visit. Momotaro asks Kintaro to return to Yamato Construction and team up with Ryunosuke's son, Ryuhei, to remove the current management. The current president, Takatsukasa, has succumbed to pressure from ex-bureaucrat Enjoji and is getting involved in shady dealings. Motivated by his sense of honor, Kintaro decides to step back into his role as a salaryman to save Yamato Construction and ensure justice is served!

Komukai Riko, the second daughter in the family, has an older sister known for her strength and a younger sister who is more carefree. After briefly working in Tokyo, Riko returned to her parents' home following her grandfather's passing. While sorting through her belongings on the rooftop where the family gathered for the first time in four years, Riko discovered an unfinished plastic model. With the guidance of Yassan, she visited the Yajima model shop frequented by her grandfather and decided to try her hand at building her first plastic model. Feeling a deeper connection to her grandfather and family, Riko made the decision to spend the summer at her parents' house to fulfill her grandfather's unaccomplished wishes.

Inspired by real events, this narrative follows a Japanese individual who is wrongfully incarcerated in Thailand and strives to break free from prison. (Tokyograph)