Asian dramas like
Zebra 2019

Daidoji Tamotsu, aged 51, holds the position of department manager at a medium-sized specialized trading firm. He encounters a woman who is 28 years younger than him and they decide to tie the knot. Meanwhile, Hanazawa Kiichiro is a high-ranking office worker at a leading general trading company. He is taken aback when his daughter introduces a man who is the same age as him as her partner. This leads to a series of challenges in what he had previously thought was the perfect family, prompting him to reevaluate his life choices.

A story unfolds as a man and woman find themselves sharing a living space due to unforeseen events, leading them to discover the true meaning of love. Kataoka Yuji, a compassionate police officer known for helping the vulnerable and promoting peace, is a widower who has been raising three children on his own since his wife passed away four years ago. Matsuda Yoko, initially with a disagreeable demeanor, undergoes personal growth through her interactions with this kind-hearted middle-aged man.

Xia Tian, a young woman who is currently single, discovers that her mother is willing to pay for her sister's wedding if she attends with a boyfriend. Determined to prove her mother wrong and ensure her sister's dream wedding, Xia Tian sets out to find a boyfriend within 258 days. This storyline is a remake of the Argentinian TV series "Blind to Dating" (Ciega a Citas) [2019]. (Viki)

Haruko Takanashi, aged 30, is employed at a radio station. As she advances towards a middle management position, she learns that attractiveness alone is not sufficient. Lacking a romantic inclination, she dedicates herself to work and leisure, ultimately finding herself alone. Just as she gives up on love, she encounters a man at a party she attended with a colleague. The man, named Ichiro Kashiwakura, is 25 years old and unremarkable. They initiate a relationship and, unexpectedly, Ichiro passionately proposes to Haruko. Recognizing his genuine affection, she accepts and they wed. However, she has yet to disclose her true age to him.

A dramatic portrayal that examines the dynamics of age disparities in romantic relationships. Woo Joo Young and Jang Woo Bin navigate the complexities of a relationship involving an older woman and a younger man, while Jang Woo Jin and Joo Young's younger sister, Joo Mi, confront the significant age difference that exists between them.

After the passing of her father, Lee Soon Shin faces numerous challenges. Both she and her mother find it difficult to attain happiness. Amid the highs and lows of her life, her romantic journey unfolds. As the youngest in a prosperous family, Lee Soon Shin appears to lack the talents that her relatives possess, often being viewed as an outsider, even though she is a spirited, vibrant, and brave young woman. Her life takes a transformative turn when she encounters Shin Joon Ho, the head of a talent agency. Initially, Shin Joon Ho is a self-assured, aloof, and competitive individual, but he undergoes a change as he learns the true essence of success through his relationship with Lee Soon Shin.

Kohei Kamishiro, portrayed by Masaharu Fukuyama, was once a musician who had a single successful song before his record deal was terminated. This setback led him to abandon his music career and live a mundane life for the next two decades. Despite distancing himself from music, his love for it remains strong. His past experiences have made it challenging for him to form relationships with women. However, his life takes a turn when he encounters a woman with a troubled past who lives a solitary existence. Despite her complexities, she possesses an extraordinary singing voice. This encounter reignites Kohei's passion for music and inspires him to create music once again.

Nobuko Shimura is working her first shift at Gyoda Hospital, with Yosuke Naoe as the attending physician. Later in the evening, Nobuko's childhood friend Jiro Toda is admitted with a forehead injury sustained in a fight. Unfortunately, Naoe is unavailable as he has stepped out for a drink. Toda and the ambulance crew express frustration and demand to know the doctor's whereabouts. Upon Naoe's return, he handles the situation by instructing for Toda to be secluded in a restroom until he calms down. Nobuko is taken aback by Naoe's behavior initially, but becomes impressed by his surgical skills during the treatment of Toda's wound. This encounter marks the beginning of their significant relationship.

Wang Xiao Feng's tranquil existence was disrupted by a sudden and extraordinary journey. This experience lifted him out of his mundane routine and introduced him to a mysterious power that allowed him to traverse different dimensions. The unconventional and innovative "Lele Primary School" captivated Wang Xiao Feng, sparking a newfound sense of joy and wonder within him. As he encountered the eccentric inventions of Dr. Wu Zhi and the unconventional approach of the school's staff, Wang Xiao Feng felt compelled to bridge the gap between his old life and this new, fantastical world. His father, usually preoccupied with work in the "Kuai Kuai World," transformed into a devoted stay-at-home dad in "La La World." Similarly, seemingly ordinary individuals in "La La World" revealed unexpected talents and quirks, such as Ada, who traded her efficient demeanor for a fascination with ants. The once stern principal emerged as a whimsical and optimistic figure in this alternate reality. Amidst these transformations, Wang Xiao Feng's encounter with the enigmatic Xu Wen Wen in Lele World sparked his curiosity and thirst for adventure. This drastic shift from his previous unremarkable existence propelled Wang Xiao Feng into an extraordinary and enchanting journey.

Yakushimaru Hiroko portrays Nanami, a 35-year-old woman who is navigating her desires and needs, such as finding a job, improving her relationship with her mother-in-law, and securing good schools for her children. She resides in a Tokyo suburb with her husband Wataru and their three young kids. When Wataru's father proposes that they move in with him and his wife to save money, Nanami reluctantly agrees, hoping that her mother-in-law can help care for the children while she seeks employment. Unbeknownst to her, this decision will bring about a host of unexpected challenges.

Miyuki, a 34-year-old Japanese homemaker, lives with her husband who works as a salaryman and their son. Despite feeling like her dream has come true, she secretly grapples with the realization that her life depends entirely on her husband. On the other hand, her childhood friend Sumiko, a single woman who was recently promoted to a managerial position at a large company, enjoys a high salary and independence but struggles with loneliness. Meanwhile, Yu, who is approaching thirty, still lives with her father and relies on him for support. Feeling lost and unsure of her aspirations, Yu is uncertain about her future. When Miyuki encounters an elderly woman she is caring for as part of her part-time job, the woman unexpectedly leaves her a beach house upon her passing. It turns out that the elderly woman was Yu's grandmother. Initially unsure of what to do with the property, Miyuki ultimately decides, with encouragement from Sumiko whom she reconnects with after two decades, to turn it into a business venture. As Sumiko and Yu also become involved as partners, tensions arise as each of them has conflicting ideas for the beach house.

Hikari is responsible for looking after her ailing mother and two younger siblings. They receive the news that their father, who had been missing, has passed away and left them with a significant debt of 10 million yen. The family, already struggling financially, is left with no money or food. In order to repay the debt, Hikari secures a job as a cleaner at UBS TV company. Meanwhile, Masako Nagai, a drama producer at UBS TV, faces challenges at work due to sexist colleagues. After a chance encounter at UBS, Masako recognizes Hikari's creative talents and hires her as an assistant producer, despite facing opposition from her coworkers. Hikari is motivated by the opportunity to provide for her family and pay off her father's debt, while Masako aims to earn respect at UBS by excelling in her role as a drama producer.

The Isawas are a typical Japanese family living in Tokyo. Yasuhiko and Yukari are a married couple who run a restaurant called Isawaya in the historic downtown area. Despite their differences, they are a content pair. However, the arrival of Takagi Rui, the girlfriend of their eldest son Haruhiko, and Yukari's long-lost mother Mimatsu Hanae, who has been estranged since divorcing her husband, bring to light a hidden secret within this multi-generational family, putting their family bonds to the test.

After Nagashima Daigo and Aya's three sons got married and moved out, Aya decided to renovate the kitchen and living room to open up Cafe Restaurant Aya. The restaurant has been successful, with Daigo also pitching in whenever he can. As former employees Uchida Yoko, Otake Noboru, and Nakatsu Eri moved on, Aya welcomed Nakano Kyoko, a unemployed graduate with an attitude, and Togawa Tatsu, a customer in need. Despite their challenges, Tatsu proves to be a skilled cook and great with customers, much to Aya's relief. Things take a turn when Noboru shows up with his dropout junior, Okumura Ryo, who is struggling to find his way. Ryo's unconventional appearance and behavior at the restaurant come as a shock to Aya and the rest of the staff. The Nagashima family is once again facing challenges with their new employees.

Located in Kamakura, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, the story revolves around five siblings, with the eldest being Asa, each dealing with their own challenges. Upon returning to Japan from Italy, their 60-year-old mother Fuko brings her bright and grandiose personality back into their lives. Despite facing disagreements with Fuko, the mother ultimately guides her five children towards a fresh start.

Umeda Mina, a talented pianist, comes from a family with a renowned conductor as her father. Her goal is to win a prestigious international piano competition, despite facing numerous obstacles along the way. At 35 years old, this competition marks her final opportunity to achieve her dream. Mina has been married to her husband, Shinji, for a decade, yet they have been unable to have children. One day, a neglected boy with a stoic demeanor intrudes into their yard. After discovering the boy's abusive past, he is placed in a care facility. However, he reappears in their garden a few days later. Feeling a sense of destiny, Shinji begins researching child adoption in secret, believing the boy's return to be fateful.

This TV series chronicles the journey of two sisters as they navigate through various challenges and obstacles on their path to finding genuine happiness.

The play explores the conflicts and significance within a family as experienced from a child's perspective.

A theatrical piece that delves into the essence of family, examining the unwavering commitment and enduring affection parents hold for their children, who remain perpetually unsatisfied yet continually yearning for additional fulfillment.

The play illustrates the experiences of individuals caring for an abandoned infant collectively in a countryside community located in Paju.

Individuals who have chosen an entirely unique route for forming connections and relationships often develop bonds that can be more profound than those found within family. Two distinct individuals start to share their journeys together as they navigate the final stages of life. (HanCinema)

A three-part drama commemorating the launch of the general service channel, Chosun TV.

This tale revolves around the boundless and forgiving love shared among four brothers who, after years of animosity and conflict, come together to mend their ties and revitalize their father's business. Each brother embodies a different generation, reflecting the lives of ordinary individuals in contemporary society: Han Sung Jae, the eldest in his 50s, is kind-hearted but struggles with the responsibilities of being the family leader; Han Sang Kyu, the second brother in his 40s, is successful yet self-centered, focused solely on escaping his familial obligations; Han Sung Min, the third brother in his 30s, finds himself unemployed after a corporate downsizing; and lastly, Han Jung Woo, the youngest sibling, recently graduated from college and currently seeking work. The experiences of these four brothers illustrate the challenges faced by the jobless across various generations. Additionally, this series explores the true essence of marriage, showcasing how couples of different ages strive to maintain their relationships and prevent divorce.

Kim Kyung Sook, Kyung Ku, and Kyung Min's father, a widowed farmer, wed Keum Shil's mother when Keum Shil was just six years old. The union was far from joyful, as Keum Shil's mother maintained an affair with Park Byung Sam, a wealthy landlord in the village who was campaigning for a parliamentary seat. Following the election, her body was found in the river, and Kyung Sook's father was falsely accused of her murder. The police coerced him into confessing, and he tragically died in custody before facing trial. In reality, Park Byung Sam was Keum Shil's biological father and instructed his brother-in-law to adopt her, securing him a position at the Intelligence Office in Seoul. Meanwhile, Kyung Sook relocated to Seoul, dedicating herself to raising her brothers. She promised to exonerate her father and track down the true murderer. Despite her love for Park Jong Kyu, Park Byung Sam's son, he was not the culprit. Who was responsible, and what were their motives?

Ozu Takaichiro, a 32-year-old man who is single, resides in Tokyo and holds rationalistic and modernistic beliefs. Despite his lethargic approach to daily life, his world is turned upside down when his older sister and her husband tragically pass away in an accident, leaving behind their 12-year-old daughter, Kasukabe Mei. Takaichiro takes on the responsibility of caring for Mei during her summer break, temporarily relocating to Naraha in Fukushima Prefecture while continuing his work remotely. As he bonds with his niece and interacts with the welcoming local community, Takaichiro undergoes a transformation, influenced by the warmth and kindness of those around him.

Tong Xiao Qi and Li Wen Yu surprised their loved ones by tying the knot within a month of dating. Tong's mother was particularly taken aback by the sudden decision. To combat her meddling and maintain their autonomy, the couple turned to strategies inspired by the ancient Chinese text Thirty-Six Stratagems.

Gu Da Hai's youngest daughter, who is in her thirties, develops romantic feelings for her graduate instructor, a man who is around the same age as her father, leading to significant complications

Hashimoto Tomoko, aged 42, leads a mundane life as a typical homemaker. One fateful day, she crosses paths with Sugawara Yuichi, a part-time worker 15 years her junior. Yuichi is in a relationship with Suzuki Satomi, who lives with him, while Tomoko is married to Koji. Despite being fully aware of their respective partners, Tomoko and Yuichi engage in frequent encounters in a narrow street near the Chuo train line without any clear intentions, ultimately leading to a physical relationship. These rendezvous serve as a temporary escape from the relentless monotony of their lives, filling the emotional void within them. However, an unforeseen event begins to shake Tomoko and Yuichi, unraveling an incredibly harsh reality that lies ahead for them.

In order to honor her deceased father's wishes, BIN KWAI WOR established a unique coffee shop where she crossed paths with BAO CHI TAI, known as "Tai Chi Bao" (Raisin Bread). TAI, a single father with an 8-year-old son, dreams of becoming the coffee king of Hong Kong. As TAI learned the art of latte-making from WOR, their feelings for each other blossomed, despite facing numerous obstacles. The biggest challenge they faced was overcoming the disapproval of WOR's two mothers, her biological mother MA SZE NGA and stepmother SO MEI, who were against their relationship. With so many hurdles to overcome, how will TAI and WOR navigate their love story and brew a strong and fragrant cup of coffee together?

This drama revolves around the chaotic lives of three sisters. Jo Yeong Ran finds herself ensnared in a passionless marriage to her distant and indifferent spouse, whom she wed just a week after they started dating. Meanwhile, her elder sister Yeong Shim's financial struggles and aspiration for a luxurious lifestyle lead to constant disputes with her husband. On the other hand, their younger sister Yeong Mi enjoys a successful career but is married to a man who is overly attached to his mother.

A narrative centered on the romantic lives and marriages of six couples, each categorized into one of six distinct types of marital dynamics!

After their father passed away and their company went bankrupt, four brothers who had been living a luxurious life had to quickly adjust to their new circumstances.

Career-driven woman Takanashi Asuka has a traditional aspiration of getting married and being a homemaker. When her longtime boyfriend ends their relationship to focus on his career, she crosses paths with Nanami Ryu, a well-known news anchor at PTV. Asuka and Ryu hit it off, despite his aversion to marriage. Their conflicting desires in life make a romantic relationship seem unlikely, especially since Nanami believes marriage restricts personal freedom and serves as a mere escape for women. "I have no interest in getting married," he declared. Despite their differing views on marriage, Asuka views Nanami as an ideal partner. Thus, the 'Battle of Values' commences.

Ji Soon Young experiences the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Wang Se Joon, due to a tragic accident. Left to care for their adopted daughter on her own, she encounters Han Kyu Jin and falls in love with him. Unbeknownst to her, Kyu Jin is the father-in-law of her former sister-in-law, Wang Se Bin. Their lives take a significant turn when Soon Young weds Kyu Jin, making her Se Bin's mother-in-law. Now, they must navigate their new family dynamics while striving to get along with one another.

Yamaguchi Narumi is flourishing in her life as a single woman—until the unexpected and solitary death of her respected aunt, a successful career woman, profoundly unsettles her. In a state of anxiety, she plunges into matchmaking, but her efforts lead to failure. When her younger coworker Nasuda Yuya candidly remarks, "Believing that marriage offers security? That’s so old-fashioned!" Narumi undergoes a significant transformation—from konkatsu (marriage searching) to shukatsu (preparing for end-of-life). This is the unfiltered, emotional journey of a woman in her late 30s grappling with societal expectations, personal insecurities, and moments of profound appreciation—all aimed at achieving a single, vital objective: to live well in order to die well.

The 19-year-old girl, Si Chun, faced a life of solitude after losing her father. The absence of paternal affection left her yearning for the comfort of an older man. This desire led her to Guo Xiao, a worker who was over a decade her senior. Despite the age gap, Si Chun was captivated by Guo Xiao's maturity and stability. For Guo Xiao, being with Si Chun brought back feelings of youth and vigor. Their love blossomed, but the harsh reality of their significant age difference strained their relationship over time. The couple eventually decided to part ways due to their growing disagreements. However, unbeknownst to Guo Xiao, Si Chun was already pregnant with his child. Determined to raise the baby alone, she chose to keep her pregnancy a secret and raise the child independently.

Yao Lan, a serious and mature woman of 33, falls deeply in love with the lively and romantic Lu Xiao Bei, who is nine years her junior. Can they navigate the obstacles in their path and find happiness together? (Viki)

Initially reluctant, Seo Yun Wook and Han Pil Seung eventually develop a strong bond as sister-in-law and brother-in-law. They rely on each other for support, mischief, and companionship. Seo Yun Jung, Pil Seung's spouse, is pleased with their close relationship, but tensions arise when Wook starts to develop romantic feelings for Seung. After Wook confesses her love, their relationship becomes strained. Despite both ending up in the same police department, they make efforts to avoid each other, leading Jung to uncover the truth. Cha Sung Joon, a wealthy hotel owner's son and Wook's friend, is aware of her feelings for her brother-in-law but refuses to give up on his own affections. Wook eventually starts dating Cha in an attempt to move on from Seung, but tragedy strikes when Jung passes away. Wook's complicated feelings for her brother-in-law put her in a difficult predicament, raising questions about the nature of love within a family.

This touching family story focuses on individuals facing different life decisions, such as reevaluating goals and careers, tying the knot, or embarking on a new professional path

Eri and her family encounter a fresh challenge when they learn that Keibun, the father of the Kohaguras, has used up their entire savings. Keibun, known for his pleasant demeanor but inconsistent behavior, refuses to disclose the details of his spending, causing his wife Katsuko to leave him in exasperation. At the same time, their grandmother, Obaa, unexpectedly becomes ill.

Nozomi, a Taiwanese woman, is married to Shinji, a Japanese businessman living in Taipei. Their relationship takes a turn when Shinji is required to go back to Japan to manage the family estate. This leads to a conflict between Nozomi and her mother-in-law. (groink)

Every parent dreams of their children growing up and becoming independent, no longer relying on them for support. This was also the case for retired professor Tameyama Kazuo, who had five daughters, both married and single, who were all strong-willed and independent. Despite expectations, Kazuo actually wanted to bring his entire family back together under one roof. Despite his daughters' objections, Kazuo used his retirement savings and money from a cancelled insurance policy to search for the perfect home in a prime location in Tokyo, close to a good school for his grandchildren and with easy access to transportation. Against all odds, he found a beautiful home and moved in with all nine family members. However, as they settled in, they discovered that the house had some costly surprises of its own.