Must-Watch Dramas to Kickstart Your 2025: K-Dramas, C-Dramas, and Thai BL Dramas

As we approach the end of January 2025, there’s no better time to dive into some binge-worthy dramas. While the year is just beginning and the drama scene is still heating up, we’ve already got some exciting shows that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a fan of K-dramas, C-dramas, Thai BLs, there’s something for everyone. From intense thrillers to heartwarming romances and action-packed comedies, here are the dramas to kickstart your 2025.

1. Flourished Peony (Cdrama)

Cast: Yang Zi, Li Xian, Wei Zhe Ming, Zhang Ya Qin
Genre: Historical, Drama, Romance, Politics
Number of Episodes: 32
Where to Watch: Hunan TV, Mango TV
MyDramaList Page: Flourished Peony

Flourished Peony (国色芳华) is a captivating 2025 Chinese drama starring Yang Zi and Li Xian, reuniting for their second collaboration after the hit series Go Go Squid. Set in the Tang Dynasty, the story follows He Wei Fang, a merchant’s daughter with a remarkable talent for cultivating rare and exquisite peonies. Initially trapped in a marriage of convenience, He Wei Fang escapes this limiting arrangement with the help of Jiang Chang Yang, an official in Chang’an. Together, they embark on a journey both personal and professional, forming a partnership that blooms with potential. If you enjoy a slow-burn romance filled with sweet chemistry, this is the drama for you.

The exceptional writing tackles the struggles of women in historical times, highlighting themes of female solidarity, empowerment, and resilience. The show’s stunning costumes and period styling, complemented by beautiful cinematography, create a vivid world that enhances the characters’ emotional and transformative journeys. Flourished Peony strikes the perfect balance between friendship, romance, social commentary, and visually immersive storytelling.

A fair warning: the drama is split into two seasons, with the second season set to air next year due to China’s new policy for dramas released in multiple parts. However, there’s no need to worry about a cliffhanger ending—this season concludes with enough resolution while laying the groundwork for what’s to come.

2. ThamePo: Heart That Skips a Beat (Thai)

Cast: “William” Jakrapatr Kaewpanpong, “Est” Supha Sangaworawong
Genre: BL, Romance, Drama, Entertainment Industry
Number of Episodes: 13
Where to Watch: GMMTV Youtube
MyDramaList Page: ThamePo: Heart That Skips a Beat

“ThamePo: Heart That Skips a Beat” (เธมโป้ Heart That Skips a Beat) takes viewers into the captivating world of the Thai idol industry, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of a popular boyband, MARS, as they prepare for their final concert before disbanding. The series follows Po, a young documentary filmmaker tasked with capturing their journey.

As Po immerses himself in the band’s world, he forms a deep connection with Thame, the charismatic lead singer who is being pushed to pursue a solo career in South Korea. Their relationship blossoms amidst the whirlwind of emotions surrounding the band’s farewell.

The drama explores the complexities of the idol industry, showcasing the camaraderie and brotherhood shared by the band members, and, most importantly, the developing romance between Po and Thame. . However, the heart of the series lies in “ThamePo,” the captivating romance between Thame and Po.

Expect heartwarming moments like long phone calls, shared glances, and casual walks that gradually build their undeniable chemistry. Prepare to be thoroughly charmed and swooned by their endearing interactions.

3. Love Scout (Kdrama)

Cast: Han Ji Min, Lee Joon Hyuk, Kim Do Hoon, Kim Yoon Hye
Genre: Romance, Drama, Life
Number of Episodes: 12
Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki
MyDramaList Page: Love Scout

“Love Scout” (나의 완벽한 비서) is a refreshing and heartwarming drama that offers a nuanced portrayal of love and relationships. It’s a must-watch for those seeking a mature and engaging romantic story with strong characters and a touch of heartwarming humor.

The story centers around Kang Ji-yoon, the ambitious and driven CEO of a prominent headhunting company. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Yoo Eun-ho, a highly competent and considerate single father who becomes her new secretary. Their initial interactions are marked by a professional tension, but as they work closely together, a genuine connection begins to form.

Ji-yoon, accustomed to prioritizing her career, finds herself drawn to Eun-ho’s warmth and dedication, while Eun-ho admires Ji-yoon’s strength and determination. As their professional relationship evolves, so does their personal connection, leading to a slow-burn romance that is both heartwarming and relatable.

The chemistry between the leads is a key highlight. Their interactions are filled with both humor and heartfelt moments, creating a captivating and engaging viewing experience. “Love Scout” explores relatable themes such as work-life balance, finding love later in life, and the challenges of navigating complex relationships.

4. Unmasked (Kdrama)

Cast: Kim Hye Soo, Jung Sung Il, Joo Jong Hyuk
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Drama, Comedy
Number of Episodes: 12
Where to Watch: Disney+
MyDramaList Page: Unmasked

“Unmasked” (트리거) is a recently aired South Korean thriller series that follows a team of investigative journalists known for exposing some of the country’s most heated stories.

The team, renowned for their fearless pursuit of truth, faces the threat of losing their jobs after airing a controversial report that infuriates their sponsors. To salvage the situation, they are plunged into a dangerous investigation surrounding the mysterious disappearance of a famous actor 20 years ago.

As they delve deeper into the investigation, the team uncovers a web of secrets and conspiracies. Their pursuit of truth leads them down a dangerous path, forcing them to confront the moral dilemmas of their profession and the potential consequences of their actions.

“Unmasked” promises to be a captivating and suspenseful thriller with a talented cast led by acclaimed actress Kim Hye-soo. The series delves into complex themes, including the power of media, corruption, and the pursuit of truth in a world where appearances can be deceiving. The drama overall has a poignant, tense and heavy tone, but there are also some lighthearted, comedic touches to keep the tone balanced.

5. I Am Nobody: The Showdown Between Yin & Yang (Cdrama)

Cast: Peng Yu Chang, Wang Ying Lu, Hou Minghao, Wen Qi
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Wuxia
Number of Episodes: 13
Where to Watch: Youku
MyDramaList Page: I Am Nobody 2

In I Am Nobody: The Showdown Between Yin & Yang (异人之下之决战! 碧游村), the highly anticipated second season of hit 2023 modern wuxia Chinese drama I Am Nobody. Picking up where the first season left off, Zhang Chu Lan continues his quest to uncover the secrets surrounding his grandfather’s past and the legendary “Eight Supremes.” As new challenges and adversaries emerge, the boundary between good and evil becomes increasingly blurred.

Zhang Chu Lan finds himself thrust into the limelight within the Outsiders’ world, alongside Feng Bao Bao, as they face an array of new characters and threats. When special operative Chen Duo murders her superior and goes on the run, six other elite operatives become suspects and are tasked with tracking her down. Feng Bao Bao joins the investigation, and Zhang Chu Lan follows, leading them on a trail of discoveries that uncover even more mysteries, with clues linking back to the long-sought truths they’ve been chasing.

This season promises to deliver even more thrilling action, strong characters and a dose of comedy that made the first season a hit. Although the episode count is shorter, The Showdown Between Yin & Yang is sure to be a satisfying treat for fans who’ve eagerly awaited its return.

While The Showdown Between Yin & Yang can be enjoyed as a standalone season, it is highly recommended to watch the first season of I Am Nobody to fully appreciate the story’s depth.

6. Drifting Away (Cdrama)

Cast: Guo Jing Fei, Wang Qian Yuan, Zhao Jin Mai
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Crime
Number of Episodes: 14
Where to Watch: iQIYI
MyDramaList Page: Drifting Away

Part of iQIYI’s “Light On” series, Drifting Away (漂白) is a gripping Chinese crime thriller that follows Detective Captain Peng Zhaolin on a pursuit of an obsessive and ruthless murderer. The story begins with a horrifying crime scene in an ordinary residential building—one so brutal that even the experienced law enforcement officers are shaken. What haunts Peng Zhaolin the most is that, just before the murder, he had passed the suspect, Deng Li Gang, in the building’s corridor.

Deng Li Gang and his criminal gang had traversed the country, kidnapping and murdering young women. Despite the task force’s relentless efforts, they were unable to apprehend the gang. In the meantime, the criminals erase their identities through illegal means and continue to live seemingly peaceful lives. When an inconspicuous lead uncovers a long-standing unsolved case, Peng embarks on a dangerous journey to finally bring the murderer to justice.

Drifting Away delves into the psychological complexities of both the detective and the criminal, exploring themes of obsession, justice, and the deep scars left by trauma. With a stellar cast, including Guo Jingfei, Wang Qianyuan, and Zhao Jinmai, the series captivates viewers with its suspenseful narrative and intense emotional depth. Drifting Away is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas who enjoy suspenseful and high-stakes stories.—a taut and thrilling experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat long after the credits roll.

Whether you’re in the mood for light-hearted romance or intense thrillers, this list has something for everyone. Which one will you watch first? Or have you seen any of these dramas? Which other drama do you think should be on the list? Let me know in the comments below!

The Drama Dojo