Asian dramas like
Youth In The Flames Of War

To honor the 75th anniversary of the triumph in the Second Sino-Japanese War, we celebrate the courageous tale of youthful hunters Yang Tian Zhu, Chang Jiu Kuan, and other brave Chinese individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the battle for their nation's freedom from the Empire of Japan.

Set on the border between China and Myanmar, this story depicts a daring mission by a team of four individuals who venture into enemy territory for a rescue operation. In the summer of 1942, a series of Japanese attacks forced the British and American forces to retreat from Myanmar. With the advantage in their favor, the Japanese aim to breach the defense lines at Nujiang in their quest to invade China. During the conflict, an American aircraft is hit and its pilot goes missing. Despite an unsuccessful attempt by a US rescue team, the Chinese authorities decide to send Hong Zi Jie, a member of the Communist resistance, to lead a specialized team on a mission to rescue the missing pilot.

A sudden blockade forces militia captain Li Chi Shui to take charge on the front line. He employs tactical strategies to build and train his brigade, which eventually grows stronger. The county brigade is tasked with halting an advance by over 30,000 elite Japanese troops to protect the Eighth Route Army headquarters in the rear. Facing this critical mission, Li Chi Shui requests for a regular main force to be designated. The soldiers of the county brigade march into battle with the chief's promise in mind. They fight relentlessly for days and nights, defending the Eighth Route Army's honor with their lives. After more than a month, the chief returns to the battlefield and fulfills his promise in front of the fallen soldiers' graves. He declares that the designation bestowed upon them will endure for generations, emphasizing their commitment to defending the Chinese nation against any enemy.

In 1937, the Japanese imperialists initiated a violent war against China, putting the Chinese nation in a crucial phase. Xu Tian, a color-blind accountant in Shanghai with military training, chose to stay close to his mother following his father's passing. After encountering a group of patriots connected to his late father, he was inspired by their patriotic fervor. Utilizing his keen intellect, he aided the patriots in transporting crucial materials, attracting the attention of the Japanese occupying forces in the city. Amidst these events, he formed bonds with Jin, a former conman now businessman, and Tielin, a police officer in the Shanghai French Concession. Simultaneously, pharmacist Tian Dan sought refuge in Xu's home after losing her parents in a situation he was deeply involved in. Against the backdrop of the national crisis, individuals navigated their interconnected lives driven by motives of revenge, duty, self-interest, or ideology.

The play depicts the experiences of three individuals during a challenging period in history. Diverse characters navigate through a tumultuous time, facing both positive and negative circumstances while resisting Japanese influence.

The narrative revolves around Li San Qiang, a member of an underground party, who rises to the position of governor in Wuze county and displays bravery and intelligence in protecting his homeland during the Anti-Japanese War. When the war reached a stalemate, the iron-rich Wuze County became a prime target for the Japanese forces. The Kuomintang faced difficulties in appointing a county head due to previous assassinations. Eventually, Li San Qiang successfully secures the position with the support of his wife Wang Qiao Gu, her brother Wang Tie Chui, and fellow party members. Despite appearing carefree on the surface, Li San Qiang manipulates events from behind the scenes, causing suspicion among other leaders about his political affiliations. However, when the identity of one of the underground party members is revealed, Li San Qiang leads his county in bravely defending against Japanese invasion.

The show depicts the Chinese National Revolutionary Army Expeditionary Force in Burma battling the Imperial Japanese Army in the 1942 Battle of Yunnan-Burma Road within the Second Sino-Japanese War. The plot revolves around a handful of soldiers seeking shelter in Yunnan and is recounted from the perspective of Meng Fanliao, a Beiping student who becomes a soldier and is portrayed as limping.

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

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

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

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

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

During a critical period in Chinese history when the Kuomintang and the Communists were in alliance, a prominent Communist party leader mysteriously disappears. In response, an inquiry is launched to determine what happened to him. In 1938, Chiang Kai Shek, influenced by malicious advice, orders the covert elimination of Xuan Xia Fu. This controversial decision sparks outrage from both factions, leading the Kuomintang to establish a special task force to investigate Xuan Xia Fu's disappearance. Wu Zhong Ming, a former Kuomintang operative and member of the Communist resistance, is chosen by both sides to lead the investigation, embarking on a challenging quest for the truth.

The narrative revolves around the camaraderie and unity among four diverse young men. It illustrates the harsh journey of their adolescence and conveys a valuable civilian anti-war tale. (DramaWiki)

"A Leaf in the Storm" portrays the tale of two households and youthful romantics at the onset of the Sino-Japanese Conflict. Derived from Lin Yu Tang's book "Feng Sheng He Li."

In the midst of the Second Sino-Japanese War, Qin Chuan bravely stood up against oppressors and corrupt officials to protect his homeland, undergoing a transformation from a scholarly young man to a formidable warrior

In 1932, a 14-year-old girl named Jin Ying Zi, who had a deep love for music, experienced the tragic murder of her family at the hands of the Japanese army. She was taken in by Qiu Yu Hao, a leader fighting against the Japanese, and swore to avenge her family's death. Living among the guerrilla fighters, Jin Ying Zi formed strong bonds with her comrades, viewing them as her new family. However, she once again faced the harsh realities of war, losing the comfort of home. Eventually, the guerrilla forces exhausted their resources in a final battle against the Japanese army. Witnessing the devastating casualties of war, Jin Ying Zi slowly came to understand the true essence of life.

Mu Liang Feng, a skilled young marksman from a rural mountain community, accidentally injures an army officer with his exceptional gun skills

The show centers around Shun Liu, a talented marksman who joins the New Fourth Army as a soldier. His remarkable shooting skills are acknowledged, leading him to play a crucial part in multiple military missions against Japanese troops. The series explores concepts of loyalty to one's country, individual development, and the relationships forged during times of war.

This is the tale of a town that relied on its gold mines for economic stability. When the Sino-Japanese war erupted, the townspeople banded together to defend their gold from the invading Japanese army. The narrative centers on two individuals, Lu Jianshan and Guo Lin. Lu, a Communist, is seen as a disappointment in his father's eyes, while Guo, who is adopted, always feels like he is playing second fiddle. Eager to prove himself to his father and the community, Guo takes action. Lu is engaged to Meng Ximei, who presents him with a large gold nugget from the mines as a dowry on their wedding day. Despite marrying her, Lu leaves Meng on their wedding night to join the Communist fighters. As she stays with her father-in-law, Guo develops feelings for Meng. With the outbreak of war, a series of tragic events unfolds, impacting everyone's lives in unforeseen ways. Whether these changes are for the better or worse remains to be seen.

A tale depicting the challenges faced by Huang Xiao Hua, a retired soldier and member of the Communist party, from her youth at 18 to her old age at 80. Following the Chinese victory in the Anti-Japanese Occupation war, Huang Xiao Hua settles down in a peaceful farming village. She attracts the attention of two young men - war hero Wei Shou Gen and party branch secretary Tan Shan Tang - who both vie for her affections. Forced to flee, Huang Xiao Hua disguises herself as a man and relocates to a different village. There, she meets military leader Zhao Jing Song and joins the military as a medical worker. The two develop a romantic relationship, but Huang Xiao Hua is injured in battle and falls into a coma. Upon awakening, she embarks on a quest to find her lover, only to discover that he has passed away. She then dedicates herself to caring for his children until they come of age.

The narrative revolves around Wei Da He, a former anti-Communist fighter whose perspective shifts over time, leading him to join the Communist party. Amid the Xi'an Incident, Wei Da He emerges victorious by capturing Tong Guan. Despite his accomplishments, he is dismissed and sent back home due to a clash with Gao Xiao Shan from the Red Army. When war breaks out, Wei Da He returns to the battlefield and saves military strategist Jiang Huai Zhu. Unbeknownst to him, he falls in love with Jiang Huai Zhu's daughter, Jiang Ya Zhen, who is secretly involved with the Communist resistance.

In the midst of the 1944 Battle of Henan, Hunan, and Guangxi, Qian Huai En conceals his family's valuables, only to be betrayed by his friend Long Qian. With the help of the Japanese, Long Qian murders Qian Huai En's family and manipulates Qian Ze Hua in an attempt to claim the hidden treasure. However, Long Qian's plan ultimately fails as Qian Ze Hua, alongside Communist guerrilla Long Xin Yi, successfully defeats the Japanese forces. Following the war, Qian Ze Hua and Long Xin Yi join forces in the revolution. Upon returning home, Qian Ze Hua discovers Long Qian's treachery and seeks vengeance, leading to a clash with Long Xin Yi who advocates for a peaceful liberation. As it is revealed that Long Qian's surrender was a deceitful ploy, Qian Ze Hua and Long Xin Yi unite to vanquish him and liberate Fucheng.

The Lusu region is known for its abundance of minerals, but it became a battleground for military strategists during the anti-Japanese war. The Communist party dispatched Zhu Yan Ming and Li Mu Xia to Huangqiushan to unite the local armed groups and combat the Japanese army. Leading the anti-Japanese forces in the area are Sun Da Dao and Tong Qi Gang, who have difficulty cooperating. Zhu Yan Ming and Li Mu Xia aim to bring everyone together to fight against the common enemy.

An iconic wartime tale depicting the fierce battles of Wang Yunshan in both romance and combat. Wang Yunshan leads the Eighth Route Army Regiment with his exceptional military tactics, despite his lack of formal education and fiery temper. Known for his bold fighting spirit and unconventional strategies, he successfully defeated the Japanese army. However, the series faced controversy over historical accuracy and the portrayal of the main character, leading to viewer protests. As a result, the show was abruptly pulled off the air on November 16 after 9 episodes and replaced with a different drama. (Baidu)

Led by Sui Jun Bo, the operatives endured intense and harsh training on a remote island to prepare for their mission against Japanese forces. Each member of the team had a unique and challenging background, ranging from harsh and unforgiving to brave and daring. With the guidance of their instructor, they successfully carried out one perilous mission after another.

Following the Mukden Incident on September 18, 1931, Ma Zhong Qiu and his family's tranquil existence is thrown into turmoil. Ma Zhong Qiu transitions from a humble swordsman to an honorable police officer, and eventually joins the ranks of the Communist Party of China as a soldier. Throughout his journey, he faces numerous challenges and life-threatening situations. Initially driven by the desire to reunite his family in peace, his motivations later shift to fighting for love and eventually, as a defender of his nation and people. Along the way, he crosses paths with dancer Nan Yan and falls deeply in love. Their relationship weathers the storms of war, but their genuine and selfless love becomes a source of strength as they stand together to defend their country.

In 1946, the Kuomintang dispatched a covert security squad to accompany war criminal Shi Yano from Japan to Nanjing. (DramaWiki)

A Chinese TV show that tells the story of Huang Yan Pei, a well-known figure in Chinese history who was a respected educator, businessman, and political leader. He played a pivotal role in founding the China Democratic League. (Wikipedia)

Gu Han Sen, a prominent figure in Shanghai, took in two sons during the early years of the Republic of China - Liao Si Cheng and Fang Tian Yi. The two adopted sons, along with Gu Han Sen's daughter Ting Gu, grew up together like true siblings. Fang Tian Yi, a kind and honest young man, valued their sibling bond above all else. Despite his unrequited love for Ting Gu, he kept his feelings hidden after learning of her feelings for Liao Si Cheng. The trio bravely fought against the Japanese invasion and played a crucial role in the War of Liberation. Gu Han Sen, aware of his daughter's feelings for Liao Si Cheng, attempted to arrange their marriage, but Liao Si Cheng prioritized his duties over personal matters. He joined the BIS, with Ting Gu and Fang Tian Yi following suit. Years later, they were unknowingly involved in a conspiracy while intercepting Qing treasures as part of a team led by Liao Si Cheng.

The narrative primarily focuses on the events surrounding the chase and elimination of the Chinese Expeditionary Forces Northeast Camp by the Japanese Army within the jungle spanning China and Burma

During the harsh winter of 1944, as the Kwantung Army faced defeat, they devised a plan known as the "horse slaughter plan" involving horse anthrax to hinder the Soviet cavalry's advancement southward. Upon discovering this scheme, the anti-Japanese forces dispatched a team led by Hu Tierong to thwart the Japanese plot. During the mission, an unexpected event occurred, leading Hu Tierong to cross paths with Xie Huan, an expert in horse medicine. Xie Huan willingly joined the Red Man Society, a clandestine group dedicated to fighting against Japan and defending the nation, in order to secure essential Chinese medicinal resources to contain the anthrax outbreak. While undercover in the Red Man Society, Xie Huan encountered Luo Xue, a courageous woman with a deep-seated animosity towards enemies of the family and the country. Together, they eliminated the traitorous Qin Luo within the Red Man Society, ultimately guiding the organization back to a righteous path under the leadership of our army, causing the collapse of the Japanese conspiracy.