2025 marked a historic turning point for Chinese television. Once overshadowed by the Korean wave, Chinese dramas have now emerged as global powerhouses, taking top spots in Netflix ratings in Asia, Europe and even North America.
With high production values, exciting storytelling and world-class performances, these series are redefining global streaming trends. Here are the top 5 Chinese dramas that dominated Netflix in 2025, from great historical novels to modern love stories and fantasy epics.
1. The first frost
The undisputed No. 1 Chinese drama. 1 on Netflix in 2025,”The first frost” has become a cultural phenomenon. Adapted from Zhu Di’s best-selling novel, the series follows the emotional journey of Tang Dian (Bai Jingting), a cold but tender man, and Wen Yifan (Zhang Ruonan), a fragile but resilient woman who heals from heartbreak.
The drama has captivated viewers around the world with its cinematic imagery, mature writing and irresistible chemistry between the leads. His universal message of love, patience and emotional healing has resonated across cultures.
2. Flowering peony
In one of the most anticipated reunions in the history of C-drama, Yang Zi and Li Xian reunited for the first time since their mega-hit Go Go Calamari! (2019).
Set in ancient China, Flowering peony tells the inspiring story of a brilliant young woman who masters traditional dyeing crafts and breaks social barriers in a patriarchal world. The drama combines romance, resilience and cultural heritage, encapsulated in stunning visuals and intricate costumes.
Critics praised its rich storytelling and Yang Zi’s portrayal of a strong, independent woman ahead of her time.
3. The prisoner of beauty
Moving away from traditional palace dramas, The prisoner of beauty delves into the high-stakes world of power, loyalty and war during the Han Dynasty.
Song Zuer’s commanding performance as a cunning female strategist and Liu Yuning’s portrayal of a stoic general brought emotional intensity and sophistication to the series.
Each episode is filled with gripping political intrigue and emotional depth, earning comparisons to Western masterpieces such as game of Thrones.
4. Love game in oriental fantasy
Fantasy lovers everywhere can’t get enough of it Love game in oriental fantasya stunning Xianxia drama that blends mythical storytelling with cutting-edge CGI and breathtaking cinematography.
Esther Yu shines as a mischievous fairy caught between duty and love, while Ding Yuxi gives one of her most endearing performances as a stoic immortal with a tragic past.
The result? A fascinating fantasy world, as exciting as it is visually spectacular.
5. Our generation
To complete the list there is Our generationa modern, refreshing and heartfelt love story that has resonated with younger audiences around the world.
The drama tells the story of two young professionals balancing love, ambition and healing past wounds in the fast-paced modern world.
Zhang Linghe and Zhao Jinmai’s natural chemistry, vibrant cinematography, and emotional sincerity have made this drama a Netflix favorite among Gen Z and millennial viewers.
2025 marks a new era for Chinese entertainment, an era where C-drama stand side by side with K-drama on the global stage.
Sources: Netflix
