Just like K-dramas have steadily gained popularity with original shows like Squid Game and remakes such as Boys Over Flowers, C-dramas are also getting more attention and a growing fanbase. Some popular K-dramas are even based on original C-dramas which may not be as popular.
In fact, there are in-depth discussions on Reddit about which of the two is better than the other, especially those comparing original C-dramas that become K-drama remakes. Besides these comparison discussions, there are also many insightful Reddit threads about the best C-dramas that new viewers may not know about.
Scarlet Heart (2011)
Stream On Viki
In Scarlet Heart, a young lady accidentally time-travels and lands right in the middle of a lengthy battle for the throne among brothers. Redditor sonni0409 described it as "such a good drama, the historical aspect of it, the plot/storyline, the characters."
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The drama was originally adapted from a Chinese novel and also inspired the K-drama remake, Moon Lovers. Even though the C-drama focuses on many characters, they each stand out personality-wise with intriguing individual storylines filled with surprising plot twists.
Nirvana In Fire (2015)
Stream On Viki
Nirvana In Fire is a classic, well-liked tale about war, revenge, and a battle for the throne. Many Redditors list the drama as their number one C-drama, including Reddit user 5topdreaming, who commented that they "don't think this can be topped."
The focus on political intrigue throughout the show makes up a huge part of its popularity. In addition, Nirvana In Fire has a sequel with a plot that takes place after the events of the original and is rated by some viewers on Reddit as the best of the two.
Nothing Gold Can Stay (2017)
Stream On iQIYI
After the tragic loss of her husband, one of the few good things in her life, Zhou Ying fights against all odds to make their family business a success again. Her success leads to her attaining status as the richest person in Shanxi — and also the most targeted. Redditor LovE385 listed qualities they loved about the main character as the reason for their recommendation and called her a "great female lead, admirable, resilient."
A common trope leading to unpopular opinions about K-dramas and C-dramas is the female lead being weak and a pushover, with a male lead who pushes her around. While Nothing Gold Can Stay has some elements to the story that may be construed as the female lead being a Mary Sue, there's enough there to highlight her individual strength and resilience in the unique plot.
Ashes Of Love (2018)
Stream On Netflix
Based on the novel Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost by Dian Xian, Ashes of Love is a romantic-comedy drama that explores love, life, and revenge with lots of fantasy elements making up the story. Redditor pikainthemountains recommended it as a C-drama to watch because "the sets & costumes were amazing & actors/actresses carried the story well."
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The drama is also commended for having good CGI and virtual effects, which all contribute to drawing the viewer in and making the story feel more authentic. Unexpected twists in the plot add to the appeal of the show making it a C-drama that keeps the viewer guessing until the end.
The Untamed (2019)
Stream On Amazon Prime
The Untamed is a popular and well-known C-drama, recommended several times over in Reddit threads and comments. The epic fantasy set in China has a love story between two young men with contrasting personalities at its center and an overarching mystery they work together to solve. Reddit user thinandbedridden commented that "the story is unique and the production is good."
While the drama contains fantasy elements combined with many other genres, the story doesn't feel overcrowded or get confusing and remains intriguing throughout. All this and the two male leads, Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo, are a huge part of why The Untamed is a classic that many fans of the genre watch and recommend.
Put Your Head On My Shoulder (2019)
Stream On Netflix
Viewers who love a sweet and comedic rom-com may enjoy Put Your Head On My Shoulder. It's a simple love story with heart-warming moments and a happy ending. Reddit user Chubs30118 listed several points in favor of watching the drama, including the lack of "scheming side characters or disapproving parents."
While for a lot of dramas, conflict usually makes the story more intriguing, it's a plot that tends to be overused. The lighthearted nature of Put Your Head On My Shoulder is a breath of fresh air, making it an enjoyable show for anyone looking for something light, fun, and cute.
Goodbye, My Princess (2019)
Not Currently Available To Stream In The U.S.
A marriage alliance, royal politics, tragedy, and a plot for revenge make up the storyline of the historical drama Goodybe, My Princess. In a post recommending the show, Reddit user 3sixers described it as "a painful watch but I still love it," and commended the performance.
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The drama, an adaptation of a tragic romance novel titled Eastern Place by Fei Wo Si Cun stays true to its origins by focusing on an ill-fated romance and the tear-jerking moments that come with it. As a result, it's one of those dramas that the audience keeps thinking about, long after the credits on the final episode have rolled.
The Romance Of Tiger And Rose (2020)
Stream On Amazon Prime
The Romance Of Tiger And Rose is a historical drama about a young screenwriter who gets trapped in her screenplay where her character is meant to die after a few episodes. One Reddit user commended the show for having "good actors, good plot, a likable ML and FL."
While the premise of the show is hardly anything new, it's executed in an intriguing way that makes the drama an all-time favorite for several fans on Reddit.
Go Ahead (2020)
Stream On Viki
Go Ahead explores the dynamic of three individuals who start out as friends but become as close as family from childhood to adulthood. That aspect of the show is one thing many viewers on Reddit were drawn to and commented on, like Reddittor RosieSandman, who said there are "beautiful relationships in this one."
Unlike many steamy dramas, romance is not the focus of Go Ahead, but rather the nuances of family dynamics. It's a good option for viewers looking for a light, feel-good story about friendship.
Nothing But Thirty (2020)
Stream On Viki
Nothing But Thirty follows three women as they navigate the ups and downs of love, work, and life as 30-year olds. Reddit user 30flirty_thriving commented about the show being relatable and its "strong female characters who don't treat getting married as their life goal."
The show's subject ignites social commentary on common issues like marriage and adult life, but it also offers great insight into life by creating characters that the audience can relate to and learn from.
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