My 2025 Chinese Dramas in Review
- dramawonderland202
- for 14 timer siden
- 20 min lesing
The year 2025 proved to be another excellent one for C-drama enthusiasts, showcasing some of the finest achievements in acting, scriptwriting, and direction. Among the dramas I watched this year, several are now arguably regarded as classics of Chinese television, ranging from epic romances to intense tales of vengeance. These stories were so compelling that I often wished I had been the creator.
Let me begin by stating that my annual recap does not adhere to any specific rating system; my comments are purely based on the emotional connection and investment I felt with each show. Here is my list, presented in the order I watched them.
The First Frost
How I Remember The Story
Sang Yan and Wen Yifan formed a special bond as high school classmates. However, just before starting university, Yifan chose to part ways with Sang Yan without offering any explanations. Contrary to their original plan, she did not attend the same university as him. This left Sang Yan heartbroken, as he clearly had special feelings for Yifan. Years later, they reunite as young professionals and become housemates. The story unfolds in the present as Sang Yan and Yifan navigate their feelings for each other while also working to heal from past traumas and regrets.
What Kept Me Watching
This is an incredibly moving story of first love that withstood the challenges of distance, time, the harsh realities of daily life, and, most importantly, overcame the dark memories of the past. Here, we have a vulnerable female lead character who is burdened by past traumas from estrangement with her own mother and sexual abuse from a relative. This character background is definitely not something we often see represented in cdrama modern romances. It actually dug deep into Yifan’s internal struggles and took us along on her journey into healing and finding closure to the most painful parts of her life.
Then we are presented with a male lead character who is the prime definition of loyalty, devotion, and steadfastness. Sang Yan was quietly in the background, guarding and supporting Yifan all those years even when she was not aware of it. He gave her the space and time she needed and reappeared when the circumstances were much more better for reconnection.
My very personal (and maybe not too popular) opinion: Sang Yan is a character written for women. He represents an ideal male. From traveling multiple times to another city just to have a glimpse of Yifan to beating someone to a pulp to avenge her, this is a guy who is so head over heels in love with his girl he could do anything and everything for her.
During the time this drama was ongoing, there was a lot of hype around his character as something that sets too high of a standard, suggesting that somebody like him is not possible to exist in real life. However, I feel like this kind of fierce devotion can turn into a real dangerous obsession. Sang Yan is lucky that Yifan shares the same feelings of affection for him; otherwise, she could have easily turned resentful of his unsolicited efforts. And to be honest, I have witnessed relationships (in real life) where the men are Sang Yan-like in their love and devotion to their partners… except that they don’t have the face or the body of the actor Bai Jingting.
On a brighter note, it makes me reflect on how wonderful it would be if, rather than hoping to find a partner like Sang Yan, we all strive to embody his qualities ourselves and provide selfless loyalty and devotion to those we love.
Most Memorable Scene
Opening scene drops the audience right in the middle of what seems like breakup… in the rain. How much dramatic could a drama get!
And while this got me interested to continue watching, what truly hooked me was the New Year’s Eve sequence. This is the part where our main leads, Sang Yan and Wen Yifan, randomly encounters each other multiple times during the new year celebrations. Despite the large crowd and their own attempts at avoiding each other, there just seemed to be an invisible force that inevitably pulls them together. It was the secret gazes and looking away, then hiding away, and then pretending not to notice that makes this entire scene sequence work. It was so flirty, like it’s purpose was to tease the audience with the romatic tension. And then you add the song in the background and we have a bunch of hopeless romantics completely captivated.
The Glory
How I Remember The Story
Zhuang Hanyan was cast away from her family as a baby and sent to a remote village to be raised by foster parents who turned out to be abusive people. One day, she killed her foster parents in an attempt to defend herself from their assault. She covered up her crime and found her way back to her real family in the capital. There she meets a young official, Fu Yunxi, who happens to be investigating the deaths of Hanyan’s foster parents. Although he knows the truth about Hanyan’s crime, he saw in her a woman with whom he can entrust his family with. Living on borrowed time, Fu Yunxi marries Hanyan as they unravel the twisted truth about the Zhuang family.
What Kept Me Watching
I mean, how can I not keep watching when acting performances are top notch. There were so many instances I had to pause and breathe because the acting is just so good and intense. I was seriously scared of Hanyan in the first few scenes where she killed her foster parents. And I cried buckets with those scenes between Hanyan and her mother.
I have to say though that this drama might not be most people’s cup of tea. It is what I would categorize as a melodrama where the drama actually overshadows everything else including the romance. I did not mind that the love story took time to develop because, at the end of the day, I was just relieved that Hanyan finally has a home to shelter her, a family who actually cares about her, and a husband who truly values her. While their marriage was originally for convenience, it was nice that these two troubled souls found comfort in each other.
Most Memorable Moment
The ending sequence of this drama kept me awake that night I saw its final episode. My heart was at peace enjoying what seemed to be a happy ending, but I immediately felt something was wrong as soon as the credits rolled. I had to rewind to a specific part to check if I am seeing things right because as far as I am concerned why is the main couple not standing beside each other? And characters who were supposedly dead were also in the scene?
Yes, see it for yourself if you still haven’t watched this drama. And for those who have seen it, help me process this ending.
I know. Yunxi’s illness is represents an uncertain future but the ending wants us to realize that life does not guarantee us a happily ever after. Nevertheless, it is worth celebrating for the ones who are still present with us and for the memories of loved ones who had already passed on. It is so poignant it still haunts me, this ending.
The Prisoner of Beauty
How I Remember The Story
Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao were forced into an arranged marriage in order to mend the broken alliance between their clans. While the beginnings of their relationship is marred by mistrust and animosity, their shared values and goals eventually paved way to mutual respect and growing fondness for each other. Hand in hand, they conquer together internal strifes and foreign threats, and led their nations to lasting prosperity and peace.
What Kept Me Watching
There is just so many good things that went on in this drama that I had to write a dedicated blog post just for it:
Months before this drama aired, I had been yearning for a historical drama that combined elements of The Story of Minglan and Love Like The Galaxy. I was looking for an epic love story that was both grounded and well-narrated. This drama arrived at the perfect time. It's exactly what I envisioned, as if it brought to life the story I had imagined.
The narrative has integrity, being rooted in the actual historical context of the Warring States era. The political elements didn't weigh down the show; instead, they provided a fantastic backdrop that propelled the story forward. Consequently, the entire plot is coherent. Even the side characters never once bored me in this show. It offered a great mix of romance, history, and unexpected humor.
It probably also helped that it was my first time seeing the two main leads in a drama. This added to the intrigue, as I knew nothing about them. Nonetheless, the acting was excellent, and the production did not disappoint. This is so tastefully done that I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes losing sleep over a TV show.
Most Memorable Moment
The ending scene of the first episode was how this drama truly sealed the deal for me. The actors did such a great job conveying the surprise and shyness in this first meeting moment. Lord Wei was very skeptical about the marriage, but the man could not help but be curious. So he lifted the curtain and saw his bride... And he obviously liked what he saw.
To be fair, that was a very beautiful shot of Qiao Man, and it registered so well in the eyes of Wei Shao. The way his pupils dilated for a fraction of a second, giving way to a softer gaze, is everything in that moment! Qiao Man's reaction is equally good too - gazing back at him and then shyly looking away... I could not ask for a better "love at first sight" scenario.
The Best Thing
How I Remember The Story
Shen Xifan suffers from insomnia as she balances the pressures of her job and heals from a breakup after her boyfriend abruptly ended their relationship through text. When nothing seemed to help her sleep, her parents recommended she try traditional Chinese medicine. There, she met a handsome young doctor, He Suye, who not only cured her insomnia but also motivated her to embrace life anew. As if by fate, they found out they live in the same neighborhood and began seeking opportunities to spend more time together. They ultimately fell in love and began a relationship, even though they had to make challenging decisions to achieve each of their dreams and personal goals.
What Kept Me Watching
If I only had one word to describe this drama, it would be: pretty. I mean this in a way that I think the entire show was made to be visually pleasing more than to be delivering a compelling script. In all honesty, the story is quite simple but I am NOT complaining at all. In fact, I was quite happy to have watched this as a kind of “palate cleanser” from the more plot-heavy dramas showing around the same time.
There was also something in the cinematography that felt like it used a very effective beauty filter because almost every scene was rosy and soft . It is very picture perfect. And dreamlike! I don’t know… Everything was just extra pretty in this drama like I watched it with rose-colored glasses!
Despite mainly sightseeing in this drama, I actually appreciate the straightforward storyline that delivered a very positive message to its audience: that nobody needs to stay in a relationship that makes you feel unworthy or sad.
It was very gratifying to see Shen Xifan finally breaking free from the shadows of a toxic relationship. Perhaps because the character of Dr. He Suye really brought a positive and comforting energy to the her life. He represented love that is gentle, secure, and inspiring. Shen Xifan’s decision to pursue further studies despite having to be far away from He Suye is proof that there is a healthy kind of love that would never make one choose relationship over personal growth.
Most Memorable Moment
Again, there were too many pretty scenes to choose from. Should it be the kissing scene with those pink, blooming trees all around?
Or should it be one the random meet-ups on the street with her holding a bunch flowers?
This is a hard pick but the scene that stood out the most for me is the wedding. Chinese dramas very rarely shows a wedding that looks like a joyous occasion. For once, the wedding in The Best Thing looks like an actual celebration people with people in it - guests who seem genuinely happy for the Xifan and Suye getting married. It included familiar faces, family and friends, who had been in some or most of the episodes and not just random people.
Eat, Run, Love
How I Remember The Story
Ding Zhitong, a girl from a modest background, and Gang Yan, a boy with a more privileged life, fell in love during their college years. Even though their love was true, the obstacles life presented them with also became equally real. Gang Yan suddenly found himself carrying the financial burdens of his family after their business collapsed. Feeling overwhelmed by his situation, he hid his struggles from Ding Zhitong and eventually broke up her without telling her the truth. Believing she was abandoned by her lover, Zhitong focused on her carreer all the while holding resentment for Gang Yan. As years went by after the painful breakup, they meet again as professionals. This time they had to navigate between their resurfacing attraction for each other and learning to trust again.
What Kept Me Watching
I'll be honest and admit that I viewed this drama unfairly because I kept comparing it to The First Frost while watching it. I believe I might have appreciated this drama more if I hadn't watched The First Frost just a few months earlier.
Noticing some parallels with The First Frost, I found certain parts of the story somewhat slow. Ding Zhitong's character also seemed excessively harsh towards Gang Yan, seemingly just to make a point about him having hurt her before. At a certain point, I didn't even want Zhitong and Gang Yan to end up together, as their relationship seemed to verge on toxicity. Even now, I believe Gang Yan deserves someone who would bring positivity and joy into his life.
I understand this may come across as judgmental and biased against Zhitong's character, but anyone who has seen it would understand my perspective. For those who haven't watched it yet, I encourage you to see it for yourself. It's not a bad drama at all. In fact, the acting from both leads is excellent. There are some very moving scenes that were executed well due to their acting skills.
In the end, love prevailed between the characters and my patience endured to see this drama through. Because for every moment I was too annoyed to continue watching, Arthur Chen, the actor playing Gang Yan, appears on screen and all becomes well again.
Most Memorable Moment
One of the many times I wanted to drop this show but this scene comes into the picture: Gang Yan appears in the rain, stands outside the convenience store where Zhitong was working.
I was reminded why I was watched this in the first place. Arthur Chen. He is the memorable piece of this drama.
Oh well.
Youthful Glory
How I Remember The Story
The highly regarded Prince of Dingbei returns to court from his heroic feats in order to investigate corruption in the military funding. During one of his quests, he encounters the daughter of a marquis, Ming Tan, who would eventually become his wife. Although reluctant at first, the Prince of Dingbei and Ming Tan become each other’s most trusted allies as they work together in uncovering deadly court conspiracies that involve their families.
What Kept Me Watching
Song Weilong.
I don’t feel the need to explain further than that.
But in all seriousness, I really could not remember a lot of the story or the details. All I could remember was that Song Weilong, as Prince of Dingbei, was serving all the visuals one needs to be distracted from everything else going on.
Most Memorable Moment
The scene that stuck with me the most was when Ming Tan disguised herself as a maid in order to enter the Prince of Dingbei’s military camp. She, along with two other companions, went there under the pretense that they were delivering soup to one of her cousins who serves as a high-ranking soldier. Their goal was for Ming Tan to be able to see for herself what the prince looked like, not knowing that he was the same guy whom she had already encountered a few times.
As Ming Tan entered the tent and finally found the prince with his back towards her, she admiringly stared at his fine physique and dignified stature. She handed him the bowl of soup and closely examined the features of his face.
Just imagine how beautiful the Prince of Dingbei was! And I mean, just imagine Song Weilong in soft lights, wearing princely, military robes!
The rest of the scene was spent with the Prince of Dingbei teasing Ming Tan about how he was the ideal husband she had hoped for, making it a point to highlight all the good qualities she had described in her prayers to Buddha. And being handsome was, of course, at the top of the list.
Love’s Ambition
How I Remember The Story
A girl from a poor family, Xu Yan made her own way into society by her own means until she became a news broadcaster and meets a wealthy businessman, Shen Haoming. Driven by her ambitions for a better social standing in life, Xu Yan had to fabricate an entirely different family background to match Haoming’s elite social status. Her scheme involved thorough research and detailed planning including hiring paid actors to pose as her parents from a scholarly background. Unbeknownst to her, Haoming was aware of her deception and was only playing along since he had his own selfish motives.
What Kept Me Watching
The first few episodes of this show was so gripping that I watched with bated breath, on the edge of my seat, feeling my heart sink every time she narrowly evades being caught in her lies. It was so stressful to watch - all that lying! I find myself screaming at the tv everytime I just wanted her to come clean. I was mortified by how scheming and deceptive Xu Yan’s character was that it just left a lasting bad, impression on me until the final episode.
Perhaps I am a little too harsh on reviewing Xu Yan’s character. She did, after all, declared that she truly loved Haoming. In fact, loving Haoming was the only sincere thing she can claimed to have done in their relationship. Maybe it is just me, but there is simply no justifying lies and deception in any relationship especially in a marriage.
Nevertheless, the writers tried to redeem her character by making her admit and take responsibility for her mistakes. But this part was where the story began to lose its hold on me. By the last few episodes of the show, it became more about business and the struggles of a start-up company. I just found myself forwarding a lot of those parts and was looking more forward to the substory of the sister who is a refreshing contrast to Xu Yan’s personality.
So while I do not like Xu Yan in the first half of the show, I find that her shady character was actually what made the drama interesting. Otherwise, it would just be another modern cdrama with a poor girl and rich man plot.
Most Memorable Moment
The confrontation scene when Xu Yan realizes that Haoming was just playing along with her lies because he also needed her to achieve his own ambitions. He knew that she would do anything to help his career because she was just as equally ambitious as he was.
The heartbreak could be clearly seen on Xu Yan’s face. Though she was trying hard to not fall apart in front of her husband at that very moment, I could tell how hurt she was.
But was she hurting because she truly loved him or partly because her pride was damaged? Imagine Xu Yan thinking she was controlling the narrative and then realizing that Haoming was just as conniving as she was. How stupid she must have felt! All those careful planning, scheming, and acting were all for nothing. In the end, does she even have the right to feel betrayed?
I felt sorry for her at this moment. But I also felt like it was something she deserved. It was a lesson for her, and a chance to break free from all the weight of her deceptions.
Fated Hearts
How I Remembered The Story
The kingdoms of Jinxiu and Susha were at war. During a crucial battle, Feng Suige, the prince of Susha, was severely wounded by Fu Yixiao, Jinxiu’s renowned female archer. In a surprising twist, Fu Yixiao fell from a cliff, resulting in memory loss. Captured by Feng Suige, he decided to keep her close, believing she held the key to revealing a significant political conspiracy between the two kingdoms.
Fu Yixiao eventually agreed to work together with Feng Suige in her quest to recover her lost memories and find out who pushed her from the cliff. Both smart, cunning, and skilled in the battle field, Feng Suige and Fu Yixiao fought through their battles as new allies and unexpected lovers.
What Kept Me Watching
Where do I even begin with Fated Hearts?
Prince Feng Suige and Fu Yinxiao were really going for each other’s throats on the first few episodes… I mean they were just physically torturing each other. But in between all the whipping, piercing, punching, kicking, and biting was a very obvious attraction.
Some scenes were just brutal, and yet they were also very sensual.
And the show only got better as it progressed. The storytelling through imagery is fantastic in this drama. The director likes to use tight shots to capture micro-expressions from characters. And then, those paused, picture like moments to emphasize a point in the narrative were really effective in creating lingering emotions. It is such a joy to watch.
If one would just read the synopsis for this drama, it would easily be mistaken for just another enemies-to-lovers kind of story with all the usual tropes and clichés. However, I am so glad that I gave it a try since I have seen Chen Zheyuan (Prince Feng Suige) in Hidden Love and Li Qin (Fu Yixiao) in some dramas. I like them individually as actors and I knew that their acting skills are top tier. And, they truly did not disappoint in this drama.
Most Memorable Moment
The fight sequence between Fu Yixiao and Xiao Wei Ran gives me the chills just remembering it.
I felt the pain and the heartbreak as these two tried to finish each other off. They were sobbing and shedding tears so hard while they combat each other with swords.
And for those who did not watch this drama, these two are not lovers, but sworn brother and sister who went through life together from when they were children until they became great warriors. In their own words, “we crawled out together from under the pile… we bled and killed together growing up…” I will always be heartbroken for the 3 Heroes of Jinxiu. Their backstory could be an entire series of its own, and I hope it had a happier ending for all of them.
Just to add: I am very appreciative of well-choreographed fight scenes. This drama really has a lot of those worth mentioning.
But oh my, Prince Feng Suige, throwing away the sword and fighting with his bare hands was satisfyingly amazing. I mean, I don’t often see heroes in these dramas finishing their enemies with a big punch. And the fact that he also broke someone’s neck in one of the earlier episodes was just brutal.
Amazingly. Brutal.
The Vendetta of An
How I Remember The Story
A young boy, Liu Zhi, witnessed the Huben Army massacre his family including his father who was an influential political figure in Chang’an. Having escaped the deadly event, he spent many years wandering and secretly plotting for his revenge against the Huben Army leader, Yan Feng Shan. He also assumed a new identity under the name Xie Huai'an.
In a dramatic turn of events, a new dynasty was established, causing the Huben Army and its leaders to go into hiding. Despite this, the new emperor and his advisor remain cautious of the Huben Army. They called upon Xie Huai'an to serve as the emperor's strategist, exploiting his intense resentment and thirst for revenge, confident that this motivation would ensure he could eliminate the Huben Army and its infamous leader. As expected, Xie Huai'an was unrelenting in exacting his revenge. But it all comes with a price as the livers of friends and allies were also sacrificed for every enemy life that they take.
What Kept Me Watching
A captive emperor who receives a face transplant and a badass, cripple general who skillfully shoots arrows on horseback? Yes, please!
From the very first episodes, I was completely absorbed in the deadly game of revenge. The cleverness of the main character, Xie Huai'an, captivated me, and I was equally fascinated by the supporting characters. This unusual mix of shady characters who often turned out to be good people is the main reason why this drama was so engaging for me. Each time I realized they weren't actually the villains, it was too late because they often ended up being sacrificed.
It affected me quite a bit because I became attached to the characters, rooting and cheering for them, only to see them die! This happened because the script did not care who lives or dies. However, I suppose this is what made the narrative effective.
Also, I was not warned me this was going to be such an emotional watch. (At least I did not see a lot of spoilers or posts in my social feeds about this.)
My heart ached for Xie Huai’an every single episode. In between the action and excitement of all the scheming, I was worrying constantly. I worried he was not eating enough, or that he was not getting enough sleep. I just wanted him to take a nap in that chair by the courtyard. I also worried when he cries alone and wanders aimlessly in sadness or contemplation.
I just wanted somebody to please give him a hug. While the lack of romantic interest for the main character was refreshing to see, a part of me hoped he had someone to give his life a different meaning, something else to live for, or just simply to offer him a hand to hold.
Most Memorable Moment
So many jaw-dropping moments in this show it is so hard to choose just one.
But there one definitive scene I remember the most - something that stirred my heart - and that is when Xie Huai’an finally reappeared in story after being missing in action for a good chunk of a couple of episodes: He found himself in a locked storage after just regaining consciousness. One would think that he was attacked and captured by his enemies. But no! The Huben army found him passed out after burying the body of Gu Yu (the cripple general). They took hin away and had someone check on him because they thought he also died. The doctor said he was just sleeping.
Imagine being so exhausted you just blackout for days that even your enemies worry about you!
Shine On Me
How I Remember The Story
During her university days, Nie Xiguang experienced unrequited love. After graduating and focusing on her career, she encounters Lin Yusen, a business executive who was once a promising neurosurgeon.
Unbeknownst to Nie Xiguang, Lin Yusen had admired her for years after seeing her at a party. When he mistakenly believed that Nie Xiguang was inviting him to a gathering, he left the hospital in a hurry to meet her. Tragically, Lin Yusen was involved in an accident that left his hands unable to perform intricate brain surgeries.
As they work together professionally, Lin Yusen and Nie Xiguang start to develop mutual feelings. Lin eventually realizes that the invitation that led to his accident was not from Nie Xiguang. Meanwhile, she discovers the joy of reciprocated love—one that is open and unafraid, allowing them to freely express and celebrate their emotions.
What Kept Me Watching
Again, Song Weilong.
To be fair, I was so looking forward to it months before it even aired since I am also a huge fan of Zhao Jinmai. I was sure that this drama would be serving great visuals regardless of the script quality.
It was refreshing to see a love story without the socio-economic power imbalance between the main characters, avoiding the typical rich-guy-poor-girl clichés often found in Asian dramas. The portrayal of Nie Xiguang as a down-to-earth rich heiress is amusing, especially when her true snobbish nature surfaces subtly as she showcases her family's influence in uncomfortable situations with unkind individuals. I genuinely appreciate a female lead who is confident, bright, assertive, and unapologetically privileged. This pairs perfectly with Lin Yusen's gentle, attentive, yet highly intelligent character.
I think the writers did a good job of mixing together the concepts of “a rich but kind couple” with the classic cdrama tropes such as backstabbing friends and annoying past loves.
And no, I refuse to thoroughly discuss the character of Zhuang Xu. He was written to annoy the viewers and to elevate Lin Yusen’s already good traits even more. In other words, I don’t like the character, but I don’t hate it either.
Overall, I would classify this as a light and dreamy drama. Similar to The Best Thing, the standout aspect is truly the visuals of the show, including both the actors and the cinematography. Conflicts arise but are quickly resolved, allowing us to concentrate on the romance between the main characters.
Most Memorable Moment
Nie Xiguang was put on the spot by her so-called group of friends when they found her outside the wedding hall. These seemingly friendly faces started pressing her about why she did not keep in touch after graduation making things more awkward between her and Zhuang Xu. She was obviously beginning to feel uncomfortable with these friends unintentionally opening up old wounds, especially when her former rival presses her to accept fake apologies.
Lin Yusen then appears, with bright lights and snow gently falling in the background.
That entrance and those long strides as he comes to get her is a scene out of the pages of a novel, a dream moment for every girl who was ever in a distressing situation.
I can't forget how Li Yusen's smile vanished the moment he noticed her eyes filling with tears. As they stood facing each other, Nie Xiguang didn't need to explain anything to him. He immediately grasped what she was feeling and gently took her hand without uttering a word. This gesture was protective yet not overbearing, and surely a heart fluttering moment to remember.
Final Thoughts
I was completelt swept away by The Prisoner of Beauty that I have knew it was my best drama of 2025. Today it is my favorite asian costume drama of all time, and it might be a little difficult to top it just because it was truly a dream story for me.
That being said, I have to give The Vendetta of An the recognition it deserves. It came a little later in the year and I did not get to start it until new year’s eve, and I am so glad I gave it a chance. It might not be as hyped as other cdramas, but it outshines a lot of other shows despite the lack of romantic plot for the main character. The exciting narrative and the cast’s stellar performances, especially Chen Yi’s gripping representation of his character, makes this the kind of show that leaves a lasting impression.
Kommentarer