: International success, such as the 1980s hit Oshin , was often driven by themes of individual struggle in modern urban settings that resonated across different Asian cultures. Popular Series and Critical Acclaim
: Unlike long-running Western series, most Japanese dramas are "one-and-done" mini-series of 9 to 10 episodes that conclude their story in a single season. : International success, such as the 1980s hit
Early Japanese television relied on public "open-air theaters" (Gaitou Terebi) in the 1950s before sets became household staples. By the 1990s, "trendy dramas" featuring popular "idols" became a cultural phenomenon, particularly among young female audiences. : International success