Family by Choice (2024):

IMDB Rating: 8.5/10

Episodes: 16

Aired: Oct 9, 2024 – Nov 27, 2024

Aired On: Wednesday

Original Network: jTBC

Status: Completed

Watch it on : Viki

Family by Choice (Korean: 조립식 가족) is a heartwarming South Korean television series that explores the bonds of found family, love, and personal growth. Based on the Chinese drama Go Ahead by Shui Qianmo and Wang Xiongcheng, this adaptation is written by Hong Si-young and directed by Kim Seung-ho. Starring Hwang In-youp, Jung Chae-yeon, Bae Hyun-sung, Choi Won-young, and Choi Moo-sung, the drama aired on JTBC from October 9 to November 27, 2024, every Wednesday at 20:50 (KST). Streaming options include TVING and Netflix in South Korea, U-Next in Japan, and Viu and Viki in selected regions. Family by Choice tells an emotional tale of reunions, forgiveness, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics.

Cast:

Hwang In-youp as Kim San Ha

A reserved yet warm-hearted individual who seeks reconciliation after reconnecting with his found family.

Jung Chae-yeon as Yun Ju Won

The strong-willed and emotional heart of the family, grappling with feelings of abandonment and newfound romantic challenges.

Bae Hyun-sung as Kang Hae Jun

A bright and optimistic figure who hides deep struggles with his biological family and romantic feelings for Ju Won.

Choi Won-young as Jeong Jae

Ju Won’s caring father, a pillar of strength who raised the three children with love and dedication.

Choi Moo-sung as Kim Dae Uk

San Ha’s father, who co-parented the trio, providing them a safe haven in their childhood.

Story Line:

Family by Choice tells the heartfelt story of three childhood friends—Kim San Ha, Yun Ju Won, and Kang Hae Jun—who grew up together in a nurturing environment created by their fathers, Jeong Jae and Kim Dae Uk. Although they are not biologically related, the trio formed an inseparable bond, finding solace and healing from their past traumas. Their unconventional family dynamic provided love and support, giving each of them a safe space during their formative years.

However, as they reached adulthood, life led San Ha and Hae Jun to seek out their biological families, leaving Ju Won behind. Feeling abandoned, Ju Won stayed with her father, Jeong Jae, who continued to offer her unwavering support. Over the next ten years, the distance between them grew, leaving unresolved feelings and emotional scars.

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A decade later, the five members of this chosen family reunite, but the warmth they once shared is now overshadowed by tension. Ju Won struggles with feelings of resentment, unable to fully forgive San Ha and Hae Jun for leaving. Meanwhile, San Ha faces the weight of his biological family’s expectations, and Hae Jun wrestles with his unresolved issues. Adding to the complexity, Hae Jun begins to see Ju Won in a new light, grappling with budding romantic feelings for her.

The series delves deeply into themes of love, forgiveness, and the resilience of chosen families. As the trio navigates their emotional turmoil, they are faced with tough questions: Can they mend their broken bonds? Will Ju Won open her heart to forgiveness? And how will the possibility of romance affect their dynamic?

Through its tender exploration of relationships, Family by Choice celebrates the idea that family is defined not by blood, but by love and commitment. 

Personal Review:

Family by Choice is a poignant drama that beautifully captures the intricacies of human relationships and the concept of found families. Through heartfelt storytelling and stellar performances, the series explores the emotional challenges of reunions, forgiveness, and moving forward. As viewers watch the characters navigate their struggles and embrace their chosen bond, Family by Choice leaves a lasting impression as a standout drama in 2024, celebrating the idea that family is not just defined by blood but by love and commitment.