Best Chinese Drama Adaptations of Popular K-Dramas

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As a seasoned gamer and avid drama enthusiast with over two decades of immersion in both digital and cinematic worlds, I must say that the recent influx of Chinese adaptations of Korean dramas has been nothing short of exhilarating!

Over the past years, K-dramas have become increasingly popular worldwide, leading to their adaptation into Chinese dramas. These top-rated series, known for their intricate plotlines, span various genres such as romance, everyday life, and thriller. Here’s a compilation of Chinese dramas that originated from Korean shows: Meteor Garden, Pretty Li Hui Zhen, among others.

Meteor Garden (2018)

In simple terms, this Chinese romantic comedy drama for young audiences is a modern adaptation of the widely acclaimed South Korean series titled “Boys over Flowers,” which first aired in 2009. The storyline originates from a Japanese manga with the same name, and has been remade into various languages, including an animated version and a Taiwanese interpretation.

In Meteor Garden, we follow the journey of Shan Cai (played by Shen Yue), a girl from a modest background who manages to gain entry into an exclusive school filled with elite students. These affluent classmates often butt heads with her, as they’re not exactly welcoming of her presence. The quartet known as the F4 cause her nothing but trouble initially. However, Shan Cai stays strong and refuses to back down. As time goes by, her tenacity and hard work begin to touch their hearts, and they eventually develop a connection with her. You can watch Meteor Garden on Netflix.

Pretty Li Hui Zhen (2017)

As a longtime fan of Asian dramas, I find myself captivated by the remake of the beloved K-drama “She Was Pretty.” Having watched numerous adaptations over the years, I can confidently say that this one stands out for its unique take on the original story. The characters, Li Hui Zhen and Bai Hao Yu, are beautifully portrayed by Dilraba Dilmurat and Peter Sheng respectively, adding depth to their respective journeys.

Having worked in the corporate world for many years, I can empathize with Li Hui Zhen’s predicament. Being in a position where you have to hide your true identity from someone who is developing feelings for you can be quite challenging. In my experience, it often leads to a tangled web of emotions and confusion.

Unknown Number (2019)

A remake of the 2016 K-drama thriller, Signal, titled Unknown Number, introduces us to detective He Jun (Li Xiaoran) and his new partner, a dynamic crime solver named Gu Ming Zhe (Wang Tianchen). In an unexpected turn of events, Gu Ming Zhe finds an old, enigmatic phone that establishes a connection with the past, linking him to detective Cao Zheng (Du Chun).

However, unbeknownst to Gu Ming Zhe, the person he’s recently met has been absent for 20 years. Remarkably, these calls are being made from the year 1998. To clarify this puzzling interaction, He Jun and Gu Ming Zhe decide to join forces with Cao Zhang in their pursuit of understanding, as they delve into the intricate unsolved cases of the past.

So It’s You (2022)

As a dedicated fan of Korean dramas, I have seen my fair share of captivating stories and memorable characters, but “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo” stands out as one of my all-time favorites. This remake brings me back to my college days, when I too was part of a vibrant athletic community striving for our dreams. The protagonist, Yuan Lai (played by Luo Yutong), mirrors my own experiences as a Judo player, navigating the fine line between kindness and intimidation on the mat. Her journey is one that resonates with me deeply, making this remake a must-watch for anyone who appreciates well-crafted storytelling and relatable characters.

In the heartwarming drama, Yuan Lai befriends swimming sensation Derek Chang (Jiang Gu Nan), who initially comes across as reserved. Beneath his guarded exterior lies a wealth of unspoken hurt. As their bond deepens into love, Yuan Lai plays a pivotal role in soothing Derek’s emotional wounds and rekindling his connection with his parents. You can stream this touching tale on platforms like Viki and MGTV.

Love the Way You Are (2022)

Having spent over three decades as a hardworking woman, I can deeply relate to Yin Yi Ke’s character in the remake of “Something in the Rain.” Just like her, I too have lived my life diligently, striving for success and fulfillment. However, it wasn’t until I met Xu Guang Xi during our youth that I realized there was more to life than just work.

Following his studies overseas, Xu Guang Xi develops feelings for Yi Ke. However, capturing her heart appears challenging. As a result, he grows wiser and more responsible, all in an effort to win her affection. Love gradually blossoms between them as they transform into their best selves. You can watch this heartwarming drama on iQIYI and Viki.

The Ordinary Glory (2020)

As a gamer diving into this office-themed narrative, I find myself immersed in a reimagined world of “Misaeng: Incomplete Life” (2014). The story unfolds around two characters – Wu Ke Zhi, portrayed by Mark Chao, and the fresh intern, Sun Li Qiu, played by Bai Jingting. I, Wu Ke Zhi, find myself trapped in a web of office politics, struggling to climb the corporate ladder. Meanwhile, Sun Li Qiu, my apprentice, idolizes me and sees me as his mentor, trying to learn from my experiences.

Happy streaming!

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2024-08-02 16:11