Director: Kim Seung-Ho
Writer: Hong Shi-Young
Network: JTBC
Episodes: 16
Release Date: October 9 – November 27, 2024
Cast: Hwang In-Yeop, Jung Chae-Yeon, Bae Hyun-Sung
Hi K-drama Fans, 2024 has brought some fantastic new shows to binge, and one that stands out is Family by Choice. This heartwarming drama explores the concept of chosen families, diving deep into themes like abandonment, forgiveness, and unconditional love. It’s a series that will have you laughing, crying, and reflecting on what it truly means to be family. So, let’s take a closer look at why Family by Choice is a must-watch for anyone who loves emotional, character-driven K-dramas.
A Quick Overview of the Drama
Family by Choice (조립식 가족) centers on three main characters: Kim San-ha (played by Hwang In-youp), Kang Hae-joon (Bae Hyun-Sung), and Yoon Ju-won (jung chae yeon). The series follows their journeys as they navigate complex relationships, both within their biological families and the “found family” they’ve built together. The trio spent their adolescence raised together, forging deep bonds that transcend blood ties. Yet, upon reaching adulthood, each of them is faced with the challenge of reconnecting with their biological families, which brings both emotional growth and complicated feelings of resentment.
The show’s premise is built on the notion of a family by choice, a theme that resonates with so many people, especially in the context of modern life where biological family ties aren’t always the strongest. This chosen family of San-ha, Hae-joon, and Ju-won highlights the emotional richness and depth that come with finding people who genuinely care for you, even if they’re not blood-related.
The Strength of the Storytelling
What truly sets Family by Choice apart is its storytelling. This K-drama doesn’t shy away from tough issues like trauma, mental health struggles, and the impact of abandonment. Instead, it handles these topics with grace, never feeling forced or over-the-top. Each character’s backstory is fleshed out beautifully, allowing us to understand why they are the way they are. The writing is heartfelt and raw, and the dialogue captures the unspoken nuances of relationships, something that makes this drama feel incredibly real.
The drama explores the complexity of emotions that come with forming bonds outside of blood relations. It shows that love and support don’t have to come from biological family members but can be found in those we choose to keep close. The series doesn’t just focus on the positives of being part of a chosen family, though, it also digs into the painful moments when those bonds are tested by past hurts or misunderstandings.
Standout Performances by the Family by choice Kdrama cast
One of the major highlights of Family by Choice is the stellar performances from the lead actors, especially Hwang In-youp, who plays Kim San-ha. Known for his role in True Beauty, Hwang In-youp brings a quiet strength and vulnerability to San-ha that perfectly captures the complexity of the character. His portrayal of a man who’s both deeply affected by his past and trying to navigate new romantic feelings for Ju-won’s character is spot-on. Hwang In-youp’s ability to convey such raw emotion with just a look or a subtle gesture is truly a testament to his acting skills.
The chemistry between Hwang In-youp and the other leads, including Kang Hae-joon and Yoon Ju-won, is undeniable. There’s an authenticity in their interactions that makes you believe in the depth of their relationships. Whether it’s moments of conflict or laughter, their bond feels real, and you can see how each of them has shaped the others’ lives in significant ways.
Emotional Visuals That Enhance the Story
In addition to strong performances, the show also excels visually. The cinematography is warm and inviting, with soft lighting and intimate framing that emphasizes the emotional journeys of the characters. The color palette, often made up of soft pastels and earth tones, adds a layer of depth to the series, making each scene feel cozy and reflective. Whether it’s a heartwarming scene between the main trio or a more intense moment of personal growth, the visuals complement the tone of the drama perfectly.
If you’re a fan of visually stunning K-dramas that make you feel like you’re a part of the characters’ world, Family by Choice is sure to captivate you. The visuals are subtle yet effective in portraying the emotional depth of the story, allowing viewers to truly immerse themselves in the characters’ struggles and triumphs.
The Drama’s Notable Weaknesses
While Family by Choice is an emotionally rich K-drama, but it has its share of flaws. Some fans of the original version of the story (which was adapted from a Chinese drama) feel disappointed with certain changes made to the characters and plot. For example, in the adaptation, San-ha’s character takes on a more romantic role from the start, which I feel diminishes the complexity of his relationship with Ju-won. This shift has left me wishing the sibling-like connection between the two characters, which was present in the original, had been kept intact.
Another point of critique lies in the changes made to the characters’ career paths. In the original story, their careers played a significant role in shaping the narrative, but in this version, those elements are somewhat altered. This has led to some mixed reactions, as fans feel that these changes may have impacted the overall direction of the story. However, it’s okay because these tweaks are typical when adapting a series for a new cultural context, and the changes didn’t necessarily deviate from the emotional core of the story.
Why You Should Watch Family by Choice Korean Drama
Despite some minor flaws, Family by Choice is a beautiful, emotional, and thought-provoking K-drama. It’s a series that will have you reflecting on the people who truly matter in your life and the importance of love and forgiveness. As the characters navigate their relationships with their biological families, the drama also explores the idea of found family, a theme that has always resonated with fans of K-dramas.
The drama’s blend of humor, emotion, and romance makes it a perfect watch for fans of youth romance and romantic comedy genres. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the emotional depth of the story will keep you hooked from the first episode all the way through to the 16 episodes that make up this series. You’ll find yourself rooting for the characters as they grow and learn to reconcile their pasts while forging new, meaningful connections in their lives.
For anyone who enjoys K-dramas that focus on character development and emotional growth, Family by Choice is a must-watch in 2024. It’s a perfect example of a drama that offers more than just romance; it provides a rich, heartfelt exploration of what it means to find your true family, whether through blood or through choice.
Where to Watch Family by Choice K-Drama
If you’re ready to dive into the emotional world of Family by Choice, you can catch it on platforms like Viki. Be sure to check MyDramaList for updates, reviews, and ratings from other K-drama fans! And if you’re in the mood to explore the original Chinese drama, you can always watch the cdrama version as well.
Whether you’re a long-time K-drama fan or just getting into the genre, Family by Choice offers something for everyone. It’s a beautifully crafted show that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on the power of love, family, and the connections we build with others. Don’t miss it guys!