7 K-dramas to watch if you liked Family by Choice

Cast of Family by Choice (Image via Instagram/@jtbcdrama)
Cast of Family by Choice (Image via Instagram/@jtbcdrama)

Family By Choice has garnered praise for its heartfelt portrayal of unconventional family dynamics. Based on the Chinese drama Go Ahead, it follows three childhood friends who reunite after being apart for a decade. Even though they're not bound by blood, the trio share their struggles and support while navigating life, love, and friendship.

The K-drama's blend of nostalgia, gentle storytelling, and emotional theme resonates with many. For those who enjoy its relatable characters and the concept of chosen families, several other K-dramas offer the same mix of warmth and connection. While Reply 1988 explores bonds of childhood friendships, Twinkling Watermelon is a fresh take on time-traveling; here are 7 K-dramas interested fans can watch after Family By Choice.

Disclaimer: This list is not ranked and is solely based on the author's opinions.


Racket Boys, Twinkling Watermelon, and 5 other heartwarming K-dramas to watch after Family By Choice

1) Reply 1988

Still from Reply 1988 (Image via Netflix)
Still from Reply 1988 (Image via Netflix)

Set in a quaint Seoul neighborhood in the late 1980s, Reply 1988 offers a heartfelt journey through the lives of five families and their teenage children. Like Family by Choice, the series revolves around the joys and struggles of growing up with friends who feel like family.

The strong emotional connections, realistic characters, and slice-of-life storytelling make this drama a perfect pick for fans who loved watching Family by Choice.

Where to watch: Netflix


2) Twinkling Watermelon

Twinkling Watermelon (Image via Instagram/@tvn.asia)
Twinkling Watermelon (Image via Instagram/@tvn.asia)

Twinkling Watermelon combines time travel and slice-of-life elements to explore themes of love, friendship, and family. It tells the story of a musically gifted teen who time-travels to 1995 and bonds with his teenage father through music.

With its endearing romances and heartfelt moments, the series reminds viewers of the enduring power of friendship. Similar to Family By Choice, it focuses on forming deep bonds, making it perfect for fans of unconventional connections.

Where to watch: Viki


3) Racket Boys

Still from Racket Boys (Image via Netflix)
Still from Racket Boys (Image via Netflix)

It is a coming-of-age sports drama that follows a group of middle school students as they grow together through badminton and life’s challenges. Racket Boys shares themes with Family By Choice in its portrayal of supportive friendships and personal growth. The lighthearted vibe and relatable life lessons make this series a wholesome recommendation for fans of heartfelt dramas.

Where to watch: Netflix


4) Our Blues

Our Blues official poster (Image via Netflix)
Our Blues official poster (Image via Netflix)

Set against the scenic backdrop of Jeju Island, Our Blues tells the stories of interconnected individuals who navigate the ups and downs of life. The series captures a range of human experiences, from friendship to family struggles, resonating with the emotional depth seen in Family By Choice. The show follows a unique omnibus format, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Where to watch: Netflix


5) Dear My Friends

Dear My Friends official poster (Image via TvN)
Dear My Friends official poster (Image via TvN)

Dear My Friends focuses on a group of elderly friends and their families, showcasing the complexities of aging, love, and friendship. This K-drama shares similarities with Family By Choice in exploring familial bonds and the challenges of building meaningful relationships. The series' storytelling and multi-generational perspective add depth to its portrayal of life’s joys and sorrows.

Where to watch: Apple TV


6) My Father Is Strange

Still from My Father is Strange (Image via Prime Video)
Still from My Father is Strange (Image via Prime Video)

My Father Is Strange tells the story of a family shaken by a stranger claiming to be their son. It presents a layered family story as the drama focuses on sibling relationships, personal struggles, and family bonds. It echoes the themes of Family By Choice. Its mix of humor and emotional depth make it a standout pick for fans of intricate family stories.

Where to watch: Prime Video


7) 20th Century Boy and Girl

Still from 20th Century Boy and Girl (Image via Prime Video)
Still from 20th Century Boy and Girl (Image via Prime Video)

This lighthearted series revolves around three friends in their 30s reflecting on their youth while navigating adulthood. Much like Family By Choice, it highlights enduring friendships and comfort in chosen families. With its realistic characters and relatable situations, 20th Century Boy and Girl offers a captivating and comforting viewing experience.

Where to watch: Prime Video


Family By Choice stands out for its heartfelt themes of love, friendship, and chosen family. This list features dramas with similar appeals, whether set in cozy neighborhoods or dramatic life stages; these K-dramas remind viewers of the connections that shape lives. These picks will strike the same chord for fans of emotional, character-driven stories.

Edited by Rachith Rao
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