I can confidently say the golden era of romance dramas peaked around 2017-2019. The absolute standout is 'The Untamed', which aired its first episode on June 27, 2019. This drama took the world by storm with its intricate plot, breathtaking cinematography, and the slow-burn romance between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. It wasn't just a hit in China; it gained a massive international following, especially on platforms like Netflix and Viki.
Another gem is 'Eternal Love', which premiered on January 30, 2017. This drama set the bar high for fantasy romance with its epic love story spanning three lifetimes. The chemistry between Yang Mi and Mark Chao was electrifying, and the production quality was top-notch. These dramas didn't just air; they redefined the genre, blending traditional Chinese culture with modern storytelling techniques.