Asian dramas like
We Were Once Children

Urumi Shizuka unexpectedly found herself working as a high school teacher to avoid being jobless

Zhang Gui Mei, a teacher from Huaping County in Yunnan Province, discovered instances of girls dropping out of school due to poverty while visiting homes. Motivated to bring about change, she founded a tuition-free high school exclusively for girls with the support of various benefactors. Despite facing challenges related to staffing, enrollment, and finances, Zhang Gui Mei's steadfast convictions enabled the school to overcome hurdles and achieve remarkable academic success. Through her tireless commitment, she encouraged more students to enroll. Despite her declining health, she persisted in her mission, leaving a lasting impact on education in the mountains.

The upcoming season will showcase Kinpachi Sakamoto's dedication as a teacher who experiences the ups and downs alongside his 25 students, who also mature through the process. They will navigate challenges such as preparing for university entrance exams, navigating complex relationships with family, educators, and peers, and managing their hopes and setbacks.

The seventh season of this long-running series is now airing, marking its 25th year on television. Kimpachi Sakamoto will once again face challenges and issues with the new class. As the year progresses, valuable lessons that cannot be purchased with money will be learned. In the previous season, Sakamoto clashed with Principal Chida regarding teaching methods, resulting in his removal from the Board of Education. However, he has returned to teaching at Sakura Middle School. The school is currently dealing with a rise in youth crime, along with issues such as drug use and sexually transmitted diseases. Kimpachi finds himself back in a chaotic school system, ready to tackle new problems and deliver important messages. Stay tuned for updates on the developments in class 3B over the next six months. (TBS)

In 1977, the students of Wafang School were informed that their class would be disbanded due to the teacher's limitations. This caused uproar among the students, leading parents to pressure the principal to find a solution. Principal Wang sought help from the commune, but they were preoccupied with the return of educated youths and could not provide a teacher for Wafang School. Eventually, Principal Wang and Brigade Secretary Jiao enlisted the help of the last remaining female educated youth in the county who had not yet returned to the city. This individual, Fang Ge, arrived at Wafang School and made a significant impact on the students' lives, led by Jiao Building, Wu Zina, and San Fatty.

Asakura Harumi, a music teacher in high school, and Kyoji Hiyama, a manager at a cabaret, initially clashed due to their differing circumstances. However, they eventually found themselves drawn to each other and fell in love. Unbeknownst to them at the time, they were actually half-siblings. Upon learning the truth, Kyoji lashed out in anger and despair, while Harumi sought to be closer to him. Despite the initial harmony, Kyoji's past sins began to affect Harumi's mental health. Unaware of the true extent of the harm he had caused, Kyoji remained by her side as her condition worsened.

Takako Meguro has always dreamed of getting married and leaving her job. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes a teacher at a night school. Initially, she lacks motivation and doesn't take her job seriously. But she soon realizes that teaching at night school is more challenging than she anticipated. The students are a mix of high-school dropouts, businessmen, cabaret girls, and other unique individuals. Many of them are older than Takako, and she even discovers that one of her former elementary school classmates is among the students. Adjusting to her new schedule of working at night and sleeping during the day, Takako finds herself unable to attend social events to meet potential partners. Despite feeling resigned to this new way of life, a particular incident sparks a fire within Takako, leading to a passionate outburst towards her students.

Tale of camaraderie, challenges, and achievements of aspiring dancers who come together at the renowned "Starlight" dance academy

Sakura follows the journey of Matsushita Sakura, a fourth-generation Japanese American woman from Hawaii, who relocates to a quaint town in Gifu, Japan to work as a language teacher for middle school students

Ke Zhong, along with his friends Zhen Feng and Ming Da, were apprehended by Lin Da for their mischievous pranks on campus. As a consequence, the university mandated that they participate in a charitable cycling trip across Taiwan to assist underprivileged families, which was orchestrated by Lin Da. An Jie, a timid girl who befriended Lin Da after standing up for her against tormentors, was also included in the expedition. They made a pact to reunite in three years upon completing their journey.

The film depicts a group of college freshmen as they experience the challenges of maintaining friendships, pulling pranks, and falling in love, inspired by a song that explores the theme of friendships drifting apart post-graduation.

When you ask a young girl in nursery school what she wants to be when she grows up, she might mention wanting to become a nurse, florist, or ballerina. On the other hand, a young boy in nursery school might mention aspirations of becoming a policeman, firefighter, athlete, or pilot. However, Taiyo Suzuki had different aspirations inspired by his elderly nursery school teacher. Determined to follow in her footsteps, he passed the nursery school teacher examination and is now working at Himawari Nursery School. Despite being in a predominantly female profession, Taiyo is eager to prove himself to the female teachers and mothers of the children. His goal is not only to excel professionally but also to become a beloved friend to the children at the school.

At the start of a new academic year at Hanzaki Elementary School, a mysterious new teacher named Akutsu Maya joins grade 6, class 3. Kanda Kazumi, a sixth grader, is thrilled about the upcoming school year and finds out that Maya is her new homeroom teacher. However, the students soon notice that Maya never smiles and is very strict, not allowing them to use the bathroom during class. She focuses heavily on test scores and administers surprise quizzes every week. Those with low scores are assigned menial tasks in the classroom. Kazumi becomes a target of Maya's strict discipline. This sparks a year-long power struggle between Maya, who rules the classroom with an iron fist, and the students of grade 6, class 3.

A tale about Peng Tian Yi, a representation of the typical educated youth from the Northeast, and his life in the expansive rural area. In the 1970s, a circle of educated youths from Beijing formed a bond and courageously advocated for change amidst the changing times. Peng Tian Yi was unjustly imprisoned for protecting the work of an elderly scientist. Upon his release, he remained in the countryside to push for reform, eventually rising to become a respected intellectual of his era. (chinesedrama.info)

The story revolves around the residents of Lin County who come together to construct the Red Flag Canal in order to address the longstanding issue of water scarcity. During the summer and fall of 1959, Lin County faced a harsh drought, resulting in the depletion of rivers, ponds, and reservoirs. This led to crop failure and a lack of food and water for both the people and animals. Led by party secretary Yang Gui, a group of committee members from Linxian are determined to find a solution to their water crisis. Thus, the initiative to build the Red Flag Canal was launched.

The plot revolves around the struggles that a young couple encounters as they set out to purchase a new home to ensure their son's enrollment in a prestigious elementary school

Tetsuya Takeda returns for his sixth year as a committed middle school teacher in Japan. Sakura Middle School is leading the way by implementing the new student guidance guidelines mandated by the education ministry for next April. Additionally, two new transfer students will be entering the 3-B class, and the school will welcome its first non-Japanese teacher on staff.

The plot bears a strong resemblance to the TV show 3 nen B gumi Kinpachi Sensei, but with some typical characters added in. There is a stubborn father who runs a ramen shop, his strong-willed daughter Motoko who works as a teacher and dislikes Sakuragi, and a distant older sister who has been cut off by their father. The father is now renting out the older sister's room to Sakuragi. Motoko and Sentaro's coworker, Onodera, has a significant Oedipus complex.

The primary characters in "Searchin' for My Polestar" are a group of 7 friends who first met in college as members of the "Sagittarius" astronomical observation club. While they joined the club as an excuse to spend time at the beach in summer and go skiing in winter, their only real stargazing experience occurred at a summer camp during their senior year. Despite exchanging vows of eternal friendship, their busy schedules over the years have caused them to drift apart. It has now been 3 years since that memorable summer under the stars. Will their friendship continue to weaken, or will they find a way to strengthen their bond once again? (Fuji TV)

Based on the manga released by Futabasha Publishers, Ltd.

A tale of a high school calligraphy club facing dissolution decides to participate in a significant contest despite facing challenges. Yuki, a talented female judo practitioner, and Yukari, a reserved boy who recently moved back to Japan from Canada, decide to join the club to ensure it meets the required membership quota. Alongside the existing club members, each with their own distinct personalities, they begin to appreciate the joys of calligraphy and collaborate to achieve victory in the competition.

One unexpected day, Misaki, the top hostess at a club in Roppongi, finds herself becoming a high school teacher. Surprisingly, she is assigned as the homeroom teacher for Class 2Z, a unique class known for its unruly students. Despite the challenging situation, Misaki confronts the students with her unwavering positivity and determination, never backing down. This story is adapted from the manga "Misaki Number One!!" by Fujisaki Masato.

Makoto Kiryu is a youthful physical education instructor working at a middle school. In her youth, Makoto was a member of a motorcycle group and left high school prematurely. After reflecting on her choices, Makoto decided to pursue higher education and eventually landed a job as a physical education teacher. While she excels in sports, she struggles with teaching dance, a mandatory subject for the students. Makoto attempts to blend in and not draw attention from her students.

Yoruno Sakura, a newcomer teacher at a part-time high school, has faced multiple challenges in her past as the owner of a bar. Despite her continuous struggles and misfortunes, she remains determined and positive. While she may come across as overly friendly, insensitive, disorganized, and careless, she possesses a kind heart and a knack for recognizing and supporting individuals with aspirations. At 38 years old, she interacts with students of different ages who share similar circumstances, ultimately making a positive impact on their lives and experiencing her own transformation.

A fictionalized account of the journey to success of two comedians who struggled with deep-seated insecurities. Wakabayashi Masayasu and Yamasato Ryota were not always pleasant individuals. They battled shyness, self-doubt, and feelings of inadequacy. Despite facing numerous setbacks, their determination and passion helped them survive the challenges of youth.

Chen Hao Yuan is a diligent student known for his calm demeanor. In contrast, his close friend, Hong Cheng Yi, has a troubled past involving juvenile detention for a bank robbery. Despite their differences, they worked together to support a classmate struggling with addiction, uncover a teacher's hidden secrets, and investigate the disappearance of bees linked to an impending apocalypse in 2012. Their carefree outlook on life shifted to anger when they learned that a dishonest politician was behind the hardships faced by both of their families. (Dramawiki)

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the narrative revolves around Wu Xiao Hao and He Cheng Shou, portraying them as township cadres dedicated to implementing the rural revitalization strategy to uplift the impoverished masses. Their efforts aim to transform the rural landscape, showcasing the resolute spirit of grassroots cadres. Wu Xiao Hao, responsible for cultural and historical affairs in her area, seeks a more fulfilling life by applying for the deputy mayor position in Kaipo Town, Jiaodong Peninsula. Upon assuming office, she confronts the stark contrast between her aspirations and reality, encountering unexpected challenges that lead to comical situations. Nevertheless, her sincerity, perseverance, and bravery serve as a source of inspiration for Mayor He Cheng Shou, known for his straightforward yet effective approach to governance.

The upcoming drama will focus on the transformation of a 35-year-old student who impacts her peers' lives and brings change to the school environment. It will delve into the harsh realities of modern high schools, such as bullying and truancy.

Hayashi Miyoshi is not your typical high school student, as he marches to the beat of his own drum. With a frank and quirky personality, he has a way of capturing the attention of both classmates and strangers. On the other hand, NikaidoAkira portrays a dark and gloomy facade to keep others at bay. Despite this, there is someone who sees beyond Nikaido's mask and is determined to bring him into the light. Though leading contrasting lives, Hayashi and Nikaido may have more similarities than they realize.

Ban Hikari has recently been diagnosed with a genetic illness and has been told she only has a year left to live. Instead of dwelling on her fate, she decides to bid farewell to her loved ones while secretly documenting her dreams in a notebook. Hikari is determined to make the most out of her remaining time by turning each day into a memorable adventure, earning her the nickname "Positive Monster" from those around her. Known for her daring pursuits and unique personality, Hikari not only attracts people to her but also captivates them with her charm. Along the way, she forms a special bond with Fujiwara Taishi, a student whom she greatly admires and loves from Class 3D.

The setting of the play is a secluded island hosting a unique educational institution for troubled youths from urban areas. Every student grapples with various personal challenges like harassment and skipping school. Over time, the 10 students regain their confidence through the compassion shown by the community members, educators, and their guardians.

The series "New Kids War" follows the story of Otsuki Kaori, a primary school teacher who is transferred to a new school after an incident involving bullying

Luo Dan Ni is dissatisfied with her life as a grown-up, which is vastly different from what she had envisioned in her youth. Once a talented student with a bright future, her life did not unfold as expected. After a car accident sends her back to high school, she seizes the opportunity to alter her fate armed with adult wisdom. Determined, she makes new choices in pursuit of the future she once dreamed of.

Minami, a girl who is hearing impaired, uses sign language to connect with her first love, Kaiji, as they navigate their budding romance together with the help of a puppy. As their relationship deepens, Minami develops an unattainable longing to hear Kaiji's voice. In a heartfelt gesture, Kaiji promises to act as Minami's ears. However, the constraints of their youth prevent them from keeping this promise. Their story unfolds over 15 years, filled with both beauty and heartache, as they navigate their first love and family bonds. (TBS)

After deciding to leave her teaching job to prepare for her upcoming marriage, Haga Ineko finds herself heartbroken when her fiancé suddenly calls off the wedding. Struggling to cope, she turns to alcohol until an old acquaintance offers her a position as a substitute teacher in a troubled class. Reluctantly accepting the job, she uncovers a disturbing pattern of bullying among the students. Despite facing threats for standing up against the bullies, Ineko remains determined to protect the victims and bring justice to the perpetrators. The title "Hagane" is a clever play on her name and surname, symbolizing the strength she must embody in order to confront these challenges as an educator.

After receiving support from the children in her 4-3 class, Haga Ineko successfully passed her teacher's exam. At 36 years old, Haga, who had always been single, found herself surprised when her boyfriend and former assistant homeroom teacher, Wataru Shioda, proposed to her. As she admired the engagement ring he had given her, she couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness. The dynamics in Haga's classroom changed when a new student named Tao, whose parents had been deported from Japan for entering illegally, was transferred in. Despite Tao's resentment towards Japan, Haga showed her love and care for him as one of her students. However, Tao faced challenges with some classmates, including Marii Kikuta, while others like Hiro Ebita and Airi Nakano tried to reach out to him. Unfortunately, Tao rejected their efforts and ended up being isolated, with rumors circulating that he had stolen something. The situation escalated as Tao became a target of bullying. Determined to break through to Tao, Haga decided to visit his previous school and speak with his former classmates.

During the day, Takakura Yuko works as a regular chemistry teacher at a well-known government-run preparatory school. However, when night falls, she transforms into a heroic educator who tackles a range of challenging problems plaguing the school grounds. These issues go beyond simple disputes and include bullying, illicit relationships, drug use, and mind-altering substances. Takakura's approach is straightforward - she believes in fighting fire with fire. Alongside her colleagues, the classics teacher Uchida Sumire and the art teacher Fujii Aya, she is not afraid to bend the rules and even demand payment from those seeking her help. Despite their differences in personality and interests, the trio share a strong bond and work well together.

In celebration of the launch of their 30th single "So Long," every group within AKB48 participated in a three-episode drama series. To add to the excitement, audience members were encouraged to vote for their favorite drama and actress following the completion of the series. Each episode featured a unique storyline and cast. (The A.V. Club)

An 18-year-old student in her third year of high school lacks self-assurance and faces challenges in defining her identity amidst external influences. (Beautylabo.jp)

Nonstop, a South Korean sitcom, premiered its initial season on MBC in 2000, followed by five more seasons. The show gained popularity for featuring a talented cast of young celebrities, some of whom rose to fame after debuting on the show. Each season of Nonstop showcases the comical daily escapades of a group of college students, along with their friends and family members.

Oh Soon Nam works as an educator at a traditional Korean institution known as Jeokhyeonjae, where she supports her students' dreams like a close companion. However, her world shatters when she unexpectedly loses both Jeokhyeonjae and her daughter, Joon Yeong. Driven by a desire for justice, Soon Nam begins to investigate the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s death, forcing her to confront a difficult choice between seeking vengeance and upholding the principles she has cherished throughout her life. This television series focuses on a female teacher in a traditional Korean school who is married to the last heir of a prominent family, a role that comes with significant obligations. A tragedy disrupts her life, but in honor of her daughter, she evolves into a figure of admiration for her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges. (MBC)

Qin Chuan and Xie Qiao were raised in the same neighborhood and have been arguing for as long as anyone can remember. Qin Chuan is straightforward and honest, but he is always there for Xie Qiao and remains her closest friend. No matter where life takes them, they will always find a way back to each other. Theirs is a tale of young individuals pursuing their aspirations and seizing the opportunities of their time. (ChineseDrama.info)

The story follows Lam Lok Yi, a visually impaired music instructor, and Cheung Ka Faat, a temporary teacher, as they cross paths at a primary school in Ping Chau and develop a close friendship.

Due to internal conflicts at work, Ga Jai Choi, a thriving business executive, is appointed as the principal of a struggling school. The school, known as the Samshui Fisherman and Agricultural Workers Union Yin Liang Can Y n Endowment Yin Ding Bao Memorial School-WDPS, is facing the threat of being shut down by the education board due to its poor performance and reputation. The school was established in memory of tycoon Yin Guo Rong by his parents, who are determined to save it from closure. Ga Jai Choi is urged by his competitors to take on the role of headmaster, despite his reluctance to leave his corporate career. Although Ga Jai Choi initially aims to accelerate the school's downfall, he is surprised to see the teachers rallying to protect their jobs in response to his proposed changes. The arrival of passionate young teacher Lam Ying Yun and dedicated educator Wong Yerk Se further complicates Ga's plans. As Lam and Wong inspire their students to strive for success, Ga begins to question his motives and gradually becomes invested in the school's future. Despite Ga's efforts to undermine the school, his policies inadvertently lead to improvements in academic performance and a sense of unity among students, parents, and staff. However, the school's survival remains uncertain. Ga ultimately realizes his genuine care for the school and its students, joining the community in a final plea to prevent its closure.

Six students from Ebisu Private Junior High School have been selected to participate in a program to develop Desktop Music (DTM).

Melody depicts a group of recent university graduates navigating their way into adulthood. At the center of the plot is Leo Ku, a mature student with a knack for business. Jiang Meng Jie portrays the female protagonist, a spirited tomboy who supports herself and excels at gaming. Heechul takes on the role of a professional gamer who sets out to win Jiang Meng Jie's heart. Zhou Mi portrays a wealthy and comedic young man determined to prove his worth beyond his family's wealth. Lastly, Yang Yang plays a gentle soul whose talent lies in nail artistry.

In the village of Xiqiao in Lingnan, the formerly affluent He family is now represented solely by their son, He Jia Hao. He Jia Hao, a studious and reserved individual, carries the expectations of his family. Despite this, he harbors a hidden secret. After eight years, a person who he feels remorseful towards and wishes to reconcile with has returned to the village.