Asian dramas like
Youth Of May

Precious Youth narrates the story of Liu Ting, a diligent student, and Xiao Xiaojun, a passionate but troubled individual, and their bond of love and friendship from their university years in 1997 to the present day.

Joong-Ah, an Irish adoptee who has embraced a western lifestyle, inevitably returns to Korea to face her history and discover her true origins. In the process, she finds herself falling for her brother, Jae-Bok. Their relationship is fraught with anguish, as they were never intended to be more than siblings. The series conveys the idea that there is no such thing as a pure, noble love; rather, love itself represents challenges. Thus, it should not be constrained by concepts of "destiny" or familial ties, regardless of how ironic or challenging the situation may appear. Despite the harshness of fate, the young couple exudes genuine joy. The narrative illustrates how love persists despite the tragic constraints imposed by family, destiny, and romantic entanglements.

A destiny that defies social norms, a passion that transcends ethical boundaries... At the age of thirty-one, Hyun Ji Seok is at the height of his life, yet he faces the grim reality of only three months left to live. He is wed to Park Jung Ran, but she is not the one who holds his heart. The sole desire of this man is to discover his true love and cherish the final 90 days he has left with her. Hyun Ji Seok was destined to encounter Mi Yeon, but fate had other plans, leading to heartbreak for both. In an unforeseen twist, it is revealed that Mi Yeon is actually his first cousin. They now find themselves fervently asking for 90 days to experience love one last time on this earth. Can their affection withstand the harsh truths imposed by society? (DramaWiki)

Gloria is a gripping narrative about individuals who are passionately committed to overcoming the hardships of their lives, particularly highlighting the story of Na Jin Jin, a nightclub singer who confronts the challenges of her profession to care for her older sister, Jin Joo, who has a mental disability. She draws immense strength and support from her devoted childhood friend, Ha Dong Ah, a small-time gangster with a kind heart. Additionally, Jin Jin encounters a potential romantic interest in Lee Kang Suk, the head of Double Sharp Entertainment, who grapples with his own struggles as the illegitimate child of a businessman.

A quarter of a century ago, the Haesung Group experienced the loss of their granddaughter, Choi Eun Seok

An impoverished, attractive, and determined young woman and the carefree son of a wealthy household develop feelings for each other. Will their genuine love be able to withstand the challenges of destiny, financial struggles, illness, loss, and deceit?

Portrays the heartfelt romance of a cluster of adolescents during the 1980s amidst a shifting societal landscape

Upon graduation, Zhang Jing Mei, a typical academic achiever, was confronted with the dilemma of selecting a career. She ended up marrying the assertive young heir Long Yi, hoping for a fairy-tale life. However, their journey towards wealth and success was far from easy, with various challenges testing their newlywed bond. As these privileged individuals transition from campus life to the real world, they must tackle a series of obstacles alongside Zhang Jing Mei. (WeTV)

"Ant Race's Challenge" narrates the tale of the hardships faced by college students from the "ant clan" who were born in the 1980s in Beijing

The story revolves around Oh Eun Soo and Kim Bit Na, a former teacher and her student, who reunite years later after marrying siblings Yoon Soo Ho and Yoon Soo Hyun. Their families blend even further when their parents remarry, making them stepsisters.

This narrative centers around a woman groomed by her mother to serve as an instrument of vengeance, intertwined with her perilous romantic life. Carrie Jung has endured the loss of both her husband and child, and now her sole purpose is to exact revenge on those who caused their deaths. In pursuit of this goal, Carrie Jung trains Han Yoo Jin as a key player in her scheme for retribution. Han Yoo Jin is both intelligent and attractive, yet she finds herself in love with a man she should avoid.

An Jing and An Ning are identical twins who were separated during their parents' divorce when they were young. Their father, who favored sons, remarried and had another daughter named An Le. An Jing, the calm sister, stayed with their father while An Ning, the assertive sister, went with their mother. An Le was abducted at the age of 10. Each sister lived in distinct circumstances and encountered their own challenges. What awaits them when they are finally reunited?

Ren Guang Xi, a confident student studying law, appears to have a charmed existence. He is set to inherit a large and well-known company and excels in ice hockey. However, his life is actually quite lonely, lacking happiness, laughter, and drive. Everything changes when he crosses paths with Liang Mu Cheng, a new vendor selling bento boxes at his school cafeteria. Through a friendly wager, the two become closer and Guang Xi learns valuable lessons from Mu Cheng about compassion and love. Sadly, tragedy strikes when Guang Xi undergoes a critical brain surgery that results in amnesia. Two options are available for viewing: 21 episodes on TV or 34 episodes online.

Kang Moo Yeol, a third-generation chaebol, appears to have everything one could desire—looks, wealth, and status. However, beneath this facade lies a troubled upbringing marked by family strife and the heartache of losing his former love, Han Yoo Rim. On the other hand, Han Yoo Jung is a hardworking, intelligent, and fiercely independent woman with a rebellious spirit that has helped her cope with the sudden death of her family. As the younger sister of Han Yoo Rim, she becomes entwined with Kang Moo Yeol a decade later. Both Kang Moo Yeol and his half-brother, Hong Soo Hyuk, find themselves captivated by Han Yoo Jung. Yet, Moo Yeol and Yoo Jung's relationship is doomed from the start, as their tragic romance is rooted in a calamity involving their parents. Will they be able to break free from their grim circumstances and find happiness together?

A theatrical piece centered around a woman who, through re-adoption, finally finds her place within a family, alongside a man who opts for love rather than familial ties.

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.

A key distinction that sets humans apart from animals is the capacity for emotions. Therefore, articulating the feelings of various characters in a television drama plays a crucial role in the narrative. What does it feel like for someone to love another? How does it feel to forgive? This television drama is designed with the intention of inspiring individuals to become kinder and more resilient. (MBC)

Housewife Sasamoto Sawa works part-time as a cashier at a supermarket. One day, she unknowingly takes a lipstick from the store. Takigawa Rikako witnesses part of this incident and offers Sawa help in creating an alibi for her affair in return for keeping quiet about the theft. Sawa agrees to Rikako's request in order to preserve her own happiness, despite feeling emotionally strained. As she follows Rikako's instructions, she meets high school teacher Kitano Yuichiro and finds herself unable to stop thinking about him. Eventually, Sawa crosses a boundary she never intended to.

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.

Lin Xiao Jie works as a junior staff member in the sales division of the shopping center. Despite facing challenges, she has been striving to pursue her goals. Through online interactions, she connected with Tom, who resides in London. Despite the distance between them, they developed a strong friendship, offering each other unwavering support and encouragement. Tom stood by Lin Xiao Jie during her professional and personal struggles, silently providing his assistance as a true gentleman. Unbeknownst to her, Tom was actually Tang Jun, a member of the influential Tang Enterprise. It was only when the Tang family encountered a crisis that Xiao Jie realized her deep feelings for Tang Jun. Determined to help him regain his business and honor, she resolved to do everything in her power to support him.

The story takes place in Yokohama, where Hiroto Kanzaki dedicates himself to running a small ship repair business left to him by his father. He also supports his ailing mother and younger brother. Despite facing hardship, Hiroto has lost his ability to smile. On the other hand, Nao is the daughter of a successful jewelry store owner and enjoys a privileged upbringing. She is a student at an elite women's college and has always been surrounded by love and happiness. When Hiroto crosses paths with Nao, he begins to open up to her innocence and straightforward nature.

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.

Suh Jin Young works as an aviation maintenance technician. Tragically, her fiancé, Jae Hoon, lost his life in a devastating car accident. Kim Chae Joon aspires to be an aviation maintenance technician, yet he faces bias due to his past as an ex-convict; he was responsible for someone’s death in a vehicular incident. Suh Jin Young offers him an opportunity to work alongside her, and they develop a romantic relationship. However, their love faces a significant challenge when they both realize that Chae Joon's victim was Suh Jin Young's fiancé, Jae Hoon.

Eun Ha Won, a high school senior aspiring to become a teacher, faces abuse from her father, stepmother, and stepsister while juggling part-time jobs to cover her university expenses. In the meantime, her three spoiled cousins—Ji Un, a rough-and-tumble type, Hyeon Min, a womanizer, and Seo U, a musician—live together in the luxurious Sky House, where they frequently squabble. When their grandfather demands they attend his fifth wedding, Hyeon Min decides to hire Ha Won as his date to annoy him. However, Ha Won’s fearless demeanor captivates the grandfather, leading him to employ her as a live-in butler at Sky House. This sets off a chain of humorous incidents, romantic entanglements, and dramatic moments.

At the center of Chinatown, a new complex rises, featuring Bong Sam Bong's renowned Chinese eatery, "Gahwamansasung." Unfortunately, the grand opening signifies the start of his troubles. Despite his tireless ascent from humble beginnings to becoming a restaurant owner, his life takes a challenging turn. All of his previously married children end up divorced, and now his wife is pursuing the same fate. Amid this chaos, the series explores the captivating lives of the Bong family, who run the largest Chinese restaurant in Chinatown. As they face a series of challenges, they work through misunderstandings and ongoing family disagreements. Yet, despite their disputes, their connection remains strong, as they gather around the dinner table for cherished family meals filled with warmth and joy.

Lee Soo Jung, a travel agent, is in pursuit of fortune in Bali following a difficult and challenging upbringing. In Bali, she encounters Jae Min, Kang In Wook, and Young Joo, three individuals who appear to be ideal yet are caught in a romantic entanglement. Upon returning to Seoul, Lee Soo Jung’s ambition drives her to approach Jae Min for employment, inadvertently triggering a series of events that intensify the love triangle.

A regular high school senior named Mika encounters Hiro, a flamboyant boy with colored hair and earrings. Their romance unfolds amidst various heartbreaking events, showcasing their unwavering love. The story delves into the couple's first love in high school, intertwined with relatable experiences like family support, the value of life, friendships, and more.

Following a diagnosis of a potentially fatal brain tumor, Kang Hye Soo, a desperate single mother, consents to donate a portion of her liver to her boss's mother. In return, she expects to receive a substantial amount of money, which she hopes to leave for her daughter’s future. To successfully navigate the screening process, they must marry legally and persuade the hospital that they are in a long-term relationship. What they naively believed would be a simple transaction between just the two of them quickly escalates in complexity as others become involved, including her 7-year-old daughter. It becomes evident that wealth alone does not guarantee happiness, and that love is what truly enriches life.

Lee Jae In was raised in a wealthy household and enjoyed the finest luxuries life had to offer. As an adult, he was intelligent, attractive, and held a lucrative job—essentially, he appeared to have everything figured out. However, there was one significant flaw: he was insufferably arrogant. Frustrated by his grandson’s arrogance, Jae In’s grandfather devised a plan to instill humility in his prideful heir and perhaps impart a valuable lesson. To inherit his grandfather's fortune, Jae In would need to enter into an engagement contract with Kim Da Hyun, a charming schoolteacher known for her sweet disposition. With no choice but to comply with his grandfather's demands, Jae In and Da Hyun were left to navigate the upcoming months together as best as they could. As complete strangers with little in common and only a contract binding them, their initial interactions were challenging. However, as time passed, transformations occurred, and even the most hardened hearts can learn to soften when given the opportunity.

Ye Chun Meng, a dedicated medical intern, has earned the respect of her tough mentor, Zhou Ming, through her hard work and determination. Despite feeling inadequate due to her humble origins, she perseveres in her goal of succeeding in the hospital environment. Throughout her internship, she faces challenges such as comparing herself to colleagues with more privileged backgrounds, contemplating shortcuts that could compromise her integrity, and navigating a complicated relationship with Zhou Ming. However, with Zhou Ming's guidance and through the process of healing her patients, Ye Chun Meng ultimately discovers her true calling and the fulfillment that comes with being a doctor. This journey leads her to a profound understanding of happiness.

Qi Ming and Yi Yao are neighbors residing in the same lane. Qi Ming, being the older brother, always looks out for and supports Yi Yao. He plants a tree for Yi Yao in the rear of the lane, hoping to provide her with the family of her dreams and the warmth she desires. Over time, Qi Ming assists Yi Yao through a misdiagnosed illness, an emergency surgery, and various challenges, including love troubles and career transitions. Despite facing obstacles, Qi Ming and Yi Yao eventually overcome them after graduating from college and leaving the alley. However, they are forced to part ways again due to their professional pursuits. The story reflects the beauty and regrets of youth as each character strives to achieve their dreams and improve their lives.

After returning from Paris, a young woman starts a small bakery without a name in a secluded alley. She bakes only 3 different desserts each day based on her mood, with no menu available. Despite her mysterious and distant demeanor, a charming young man stumbles upon her shop one day and decides to stay, eventually becoming an employee. As he becomes a part of the bakery, the atmosphere shifts. Will this man be able to help her confront her past and open up her heart?

A narrative about an intelligent young girl who, having lost her family during the Korean War, navigates the swift transformations of Korean society in the 1970s. It is a tale that explores themes of ambition, love, grief, forgiveness, and the reconciling of two generations who endured the chaotic times of the first and second Korean Wars, spanning from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Lan Xiao Yi made the decision to leave her job in Nanjing and move to Shanghai with her boyfriend Tian Fei. Although she faces challenges with her low-paying job in Shanghai, Xiao Yi finds happiness in being with Tian Fei. However, Tian Fei's coworker Xiao Lu, a recent college graduate, develops feelings for him and is determined to win him over. In a complicated turn of events, Xiao Lu pretends to be pregnant in an attempt to pressure Tian Fei into marrying her. Tian Fei promises Xiao Yi that he will resolve the situation and return in 2 years. Despite learning about the pregnancy, Xiao Yi trusts Tian Fei and waits for him. After waiting for six months, Xiao Yi decides to re-enter the workforce as she grows tired of waiting for Tian Fei. Extracted from the novel "Fulfill Your Own Blue Sky."

The plot centers around a group of recent college graduates, portraying a tale of youth, aspirations, and challenges. After finishing their studies, Ling Xiao, Tan Yue, Rao Shi Kai, Ning Xue, Ning Yu, and their peers faced the difficulties of starting their careers. As they met new romantic interests like Wei Wei, Chen Hao, and Ning Yu, they began to see love and work in a new light. Despite his father's objections, Ling Xiao was determined to pursue his dream through hard work. However, his affluent background posed a challenge in his relationship with Wei Wei. Ling Xiao helped Tan Yue secure a job at a 4S shop, where Tan Yue fell for Chen Hao. Chen Hao, in turn, wanted to create an opportunity for Tan Yue and Ling Xiao. When Ling Xiao's cousin Zhao Xiao Nan returned from studying abroad and took over the family business, he started to indulge himself. Despite his wealth and experience, he couldn't win the affections of Wei Wei. Witnessing the simple love between Wei Wei and Ling Xiao gave Zhao Zhen Nan a new perspective on love. Ultimately, these young individuals found success in their careers, love lives, and overall happiness.

Seven siblings, orphaned and bound by a bond stronger than that of biological relatives, are juxtaposed with a family related by blood that is fracturing due to its own avarice, prompting a reflection on the true essence of family and happiness. The narrative primarily follows Jang Ha Bin/Kim Baek Won, a girl who becomes a police officer, and Do Young, a boy who pursues a career as a prosecutor. He finds himself falling in love with her once more after she previously shattered his heart. (MBC, DramaWiki)

Seo Young Ji came from a disadvantaged background and dedicated herself to improving her circumstances. She decided to consult a plastic surgeon, believing that altering her looks could lead to a brighter future. The surgeon, a stunning young woman named Jeong Ah Mi, asked Seo Young Ji for a favor. Jeong Ah Mi was supposed to go on a blind date with Kim Jun Woo, but she had no desire to attend. Therefore, she requested Seo Young Ji to pretend to take her place. Seo Young Ji agreed, intending to dissuade the guy, but to her surprise, the blind date went incredibly well, and the two began a relationship. Complicating matters further was Choi Do Kyeong, a determined social climber from a humble background who was willing to do anything to secure a wealthy marriage. He dismissed Seo Young Ji due to her financial status and focused his efforts on pursuing Jeong Ah Mi.

Ai Ruo Man is a successful and self-sufficient professional with impressive credentials. Despite her qualifications, she has not been lucky in romantic relationships. Her former partner once mentioned that her demanding nature made it challenging for anyone to love her. On the other hand, Lu Fei, her close friend of 15 years, is a caring and laid-back individual who enjoys cooking and tending to his home and garden. While he is admired by many women, he has not been in many relationships and is not considering marriage at the moment. As they both enter their thirties, Ruo Man and Lu Fei are focused on personal growth and leading fulfilling lives in the bustling city. Will they discover love along the way? (CdramaBase)

The protagonist of this tale is Qiao An, although the narrative is shared from the perspective of her companion, Ni Hao. Qiao An hails from a privileged background, however, her circumstances changed when her father disappeared, leading her to start from scratch. Despite her tough exterior, she is a determined and ambitious individual. When she attempts to secure a job at Lu Yuan Yang's firm, he rejects her due to his past association with her father and awareness of her current situation.

During a period of change in the 1980s, six households residing on Mayang Street in Guangzhou witness the joys of youth and romance

Sawada Takuto, a typical college student, discovers he has been diagnosed with A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's disease) and has limited time left. Rather than succumbing to sadness, Takuto chooses to embrace life to the fullest.

After Maki's mother commits assault, Maki is placed temporarily in the children's orphanage, Kogamo no Ie. Post, a young girl who has lost her parents, is a strong and positive leader at the orphanage. Piami and Bonbi also look up to Post. Despite their different backgrounds, these girls appear indifferent and not sad. Post explains that they have abandoned everything from their past, including their names, to find happiness. She advises Maki to let go of the past and embrace bravery as their only protection in the harsh world. However, Maki remains hopeful that her mother will come back for her.

This television series centers on a Yoo Jina look-alike who refers to herself as “Yoo Gina.” The original Yoo Jina was a vibrant pop star who embraced life to the fullest. One day, she crosses paths with her impersonator, “Yoo Gina,” leading to a complex intertwining of their lives. While Yoo Jina enjoys a life filled with glamour, she also carries a deep personal sorrow that weighs heavily on her. On the other hand, “Yoo Gina” makes a living as an impersonator but dreams of becoming a genuine singer. As their paths converge, will their connection prove to be a positive karmic bond or a toxic one? Will “Yoo Gina” achieve the career she aspires to? (MBC America)

Wealthy and entitled individuals in their twenties reveal their true intentions and expose their moral decay while engaging in a perilous game. Driven by a desire for vengeance, the popular player Kwon Shi Hyun wagers with his friends that he can charm Eun Tae Hee, an innocent young woman who sees those who fall for love as naive. As they spend time together, Tae Hee begins to reconsider her beliefs about love. Meanwhile, Shi Hyun's hidden agenda becomes more complex, and his emotions for his target intensify. Will scandal and heartbreak soon follow? (Wikipedia) Loosely inspired by the novel "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" by Pierre Choderlos-de-Laclos. Available in two formats: 32 episodes (TV) || 16 episodes (online).

During the period of Japanese rule in Korea, Kim Woo Jin works as a playwright for stage dramas. He is in a marriage, yet he finds himself captivated by Yun Shim Deok. Shim Deok is recognized as the first Korean soprano and in 1926, she records “Praise of Death,” marking it as the first Korean pop song. The story of Woo Jin and Shim Deok ultimately concludes in tragedy. This narrative is inspired by the real-life accounts of Kim Woo Jin and Yun Shim Deok.

In an effort to persuade an old acquaintance to stop bothering her, Kim Yeon Do posts a picture of an unfamiliar guy, asserting that he is her boyfriend. Unbeknownst to her, the image she selected features the rebellious student Ji Hyun Ho. As she spends more time with him to rectify the situation, she discovers that individuals have much deeper layers than she initially perceives.

Ki Sun Gyeom, a former athlete who had to retire due to legal issues, crosses paths with Oh Mi Joo, a movie subtitle translator who feels their meeting is predestined. At the same time, Seo Dan Ah, the CEO of a sports agency and the legitimate heir to Seomyung Group, faces challenges related to gender bias while striving for her ambitions. Lee Young Hwa, an art student passionate about films, comes into her world. Is there a chance for romance to develop between these two couples?

Following a disagreement with her supervisor, dentist Yoon Hye Jin retreats to a coastal village she frequented during her childhood. Upon discovering the village lacks a dentist, she decides to establish her practice there permanently. Yoon's reserved attitude clashes with the locals, but she receives help from the carefree handyman, Hong Do Sik, as she adjusts to village life. Initially, their relationship is rocky.

A sports-themed love story showcasing the love and dedication for badminton of a male and female duo who team up in mixed doubles from the badminton corporate team. Park Tae Joon, drawn into the badminton scene by his parents' business, rediscovers his passion for the sport while trying to win over a woman. Meanwhile, Park Tae Yang, a once-promising Olympic hopeful, steps away from badminton for three years following a scandal involving bribery.

During the political turmoil in South Korea in the 1980s, Lee Du Hak and Choi Cheol Ung, two high school buddies, form a close bond with O Jeong Sin, a new student from Seoul