If you are looking for a heart-warming drama that is refreshing, Family by Choice is your choice. The show reimagines the meaning of family that often goes beyond blood ties.

Based on the popular Chinese series, Go Ahead, the show is written by Hong Si-young and directed by Kim Seung-ho, who crafts a heart-warming story that feels both fresh and universally relevant.

Along with the main cast of Hwang In-yup, Bae Hyeon-seong, and Jang Chae-yeon, the series also features powerful performances from Choi Won-young and Choi Moo-sung.

Family by Choice focuses on three individuals – Kim San-ha (Hwang In-yup), Kang Hae-joon (Bae Hyeon-seong), and Yoon Ju-won (Jang Chae-yeon) – who, despite being unrelated by blood, Find deeper bonds in each other’s company while enduring personal hardships.

Each of them comes from a fractured past: San-ha struggles with abandonment, Hae-joon bears the scars of neglect, and Joo-won faces the loneliness of losing her mother. Together, they form an unconventional family, dealing with the complexities of life, love, and healing with unwavering support for each other.

The greatest strength of Family by Choice is that despite being a remake, the Korean version retains the emotional depth of the original while adapting the story to its cultural context.

The writing of Family by Choice is also worth discussing. The narrative is subtle, never overly dramatic, yet full of emotional depth.

The show handles sensitive topics like trauma, mental health and forgiveness gracefully. The dialogue is raw and heartfelt, capturing the untold nuances of human relationships, while the pacing makes the characters’ development feel organic and believable.

However, it is the performances that are the soul of the series. Hwang In-yup delivers an exceptional portrayal as San-ha, bringing vulnerability and quiet strength to the character. Bae Hyeon-seong shines as the sweet and optimistic Hae-joon, while Jang Chae-yeon’s layered performance as the resilient Ju-won adds depth to the trio. Their chemistry is palpable, making their shared journey authentic.

The warm cinematography and use of soft lighting and intimate framing further heighten the characters’ emotional journey.

Family by Choice is not just a drama; It is a celebration of chosen families, resilience and unconditional love. With its layered storytelling, great performances and heartfelt message, this series is a must-watch.

It can be streamed on Viki.