7 K-Dramas That Celebrate The Power Of Found Family & Make You Cherish Friends

We all long for love and support. That's why the concept of found family is a beloved theme in movies and shows everywhere. The idea of a group formed by affection and respect, rather than obligation or upbringing, resonates deeply with us and offers a sense of belonging and acceptance. Even if it is only a fictional group.

If you crave stories that celebrate the found family trope, here are seven of the best K-dramas that lean heavily on the theme, handpicked by seasoned fans and rated by IMDb scores.

The Uncanny Counter (2020-2023)

IMDb rating: 8.0/10

Where to stream: Netflix

The show is horror and suspense, with demon hunters disguised as employees of a noodle restaurant fighting the forces of evil and monsters that prey on humanity. But the second main theme is exactly what we came here for - the group is tight-knit and shares some exciting dynamics.

Itaewon Class (2020)

IMDb rating: 8.2/10

Where to stream: Netflix

Again, the story is primarily about revenge (a wronged man wants to take down a powerful family that killed his father and put him in prison), but the underlying plot is the heartwarming relationship between the lead and his employees-turned-friends, all united by a common enemy.

Dear My Friends (2016)

IMDb rating: 8.2/10

Where to stream: Disney+, Prime Video, Netflix, Tubi

Easily one of the best slice-of-life dramas about friendship, Dear My Friends is about a writer looking for a plot for her next book. However, the focus is not on her, but on her mother and a group of her friends, all in their 60s and 70s. These lovable characters prove that memories are not all that people their age have to share.

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Where to stream: Netflix

A city professional decides to turn her life upside down and moves to an idyllic seaside village, where she meets new friends who slowly become family. Though it is a laid-back story with a somewhat slow development, fans guarantee you will find it hard to press pause.

Prison Playbook (2017)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, iQIYI

After defending his sister from an assault, a popular baseball player finds himself in prison for a year. Surprisingly, he meets all kinds of people (both guards and inmates), each with their own story that can be hysterically funny or deeply moving.

Our Blues (2022)

IMDb rating: 8.6/10

Where to stream: Netflix

The inhabitants of the isolated island of Jeju are a tight-knit community. Not just because they are forced together by geography, but because beyond blood ties, they find true connection, support, and sometimes love in each other.

Hospital Playlist (2020-2021)

IMDb rating: 8.8/10

Where to stream: Netflix

Looking at the title, you might have thought this was a medical drama, but it's actually the story of five doctors who have been friends since medical school, and whose professional lives (they all work in the same hospital, of course) go hand in hand with their personal relationships and shared hobbies: a love of food and a hilariously bad cover band.