The Early Spring

About this drama

Fresh graduate Shang Zhitao relocates to Beijing and enters a high-stakes advertising agency, where she immediately clashes with Luan Nian, a cynical yet brilliant creative genius. Their competitive tension shifts into a complex, hidden six-year romance as they struggle with professional pressures and personal vulnerabilities. Following a long separation caused by deep misunderstandings, they eventually cross paths again, having matured into equals ready to confront their unresolved feelings.

Who this is for

Viewers who want an adult workplace romance with real physical chemistry, a heroine whose career growth matters, and a messy, imperfect couple, especially anyone tired of chaste idol dramas. Skip it if a boss-subordinate power imbalance, a cold and sometimes belittling male lead, or a relationship kept secret for years is a dealbreaker.

Our take

One of the highest-ranked Chinese series on Netflix's global non-English chart upon release, the drama draws praise for its lead chemistry, its grounded picture of a newcomer grinding through Beijing office life, and Sun Qian's relatable heroine. Critics noted that it avoids sugary idol tropes and gives her career real weight. The main debate centres on the power dynamic: commentators questioned a boss pursuing his subordinate, his dismissive treatment of her work early on, and a first night that begins while she is intoxicated. Even viewers who rate it highly note that the male lead remains emotionally withholding and the relationship feels lopsided for long stretches.

Pacing & content notes

The leads get together early rather than as a slow burn, and the story then spans roughly a decade, including a separation and time jump.

Where to watch

• Youku · Official title pageAvailability varies by region; check the platform.

Cast

Directed by Jiang Ji Zheng

• Jing Boran as Luan Nian
• Sun Qian as Shang Zhitao

Your Watchlist

Should I watch?

• Assessed as having a strong female lead
• Assessed as having no love triangle
• Romance carries the main plot

• May not suit you if you prefer low angst

Story traits

Romance

9 / 10

Angst

7 / 10

Comedy

2 / 10

Pacing

4 / 10

Traits and editorial notes are researched from published sources with AI assistance and editorially checked (how we review).

Tags

• Drama
• Romance
• Second chance

Ending

The leads end together after a long separation; the finale is warm and closed rather than open.

Frequently compared with

• Love Is Sweet
• The First Frost

C-dramas like The Early Spring

1. The White Olive Tree · 2025 · 38 episodes · Match 98/100

   • Assessed as having no love triangle
   • Assessed as having a strong female lead
   • Modern setting, like The Early Spring

2. Road Home · 2023 · 30 episodes · Match 97/100

   • Assessed as having no love triangle
   • Assessed as having a strong female lead
   • Modern setting, like The Early Spring

3. 明川有知夏 · 2026 · 32 episodes · Match 97/100

   • Assessed as having no love triangle
   • Assessed as having a strong female lead
   • Modern setting, like The Early Spring

4. Love Song in Winter · 2024 · 36 episodes · Match 97/100

   • Assessed as having no love triangle
   • Assessed as having a strong female lead
   • Modern setting, like The Early Spring

5. Genius Girlfriend · 2026 · 28 episodes · Match 97/100

   • Assessed as having no love triangle
   • Assessed as having a strong female lead
   • Modern setting, like The Early Spring

Ranked by traits in common with The Early Spring: setting, genres, tropes and editorial dimensions. A fit index, not a quality score, and the same for everyone.