Asian dramas like
My Unfamiliar Family

The lives of mothers and their connections with their children have been a focal point. The four families have faced significant obstacles in their relationships between spouses, parents and children, and across generations. Enrolling their young children in just one year of preschool education has provided young parents with valuable growth opportunities. They have learned to prioritize supporting their children's development over engaging in competition, guiding them to establish a solid foundation for their future.

Tsukioka Natsu, aged 28, is employed at a printing company based in Tokyo. Upon learning of the passing of Nagumo Mizuki, Tsukioka Natsu reflects on their past romantic involvement during their time at university. Following Mizuki's sudden decision to end their relationship and subsequent disappearance, Tsukioka Natsu lost contact with her for a period of 7 years. Attending Mizuki's funeral, Tsukioka Natsu encounters a young girl named Umi, who is revealed to be Mizuki's daughter. It is then disclosed by Mizuki's mother that Umi is also Tsukioka Natsu's daughter.

The story revolves around five elderly women residing on the same street who are brought together by a scam. Through shared experiences of joy and sorrow, they form a deep bond while seeking new purpose in their lives. Each woman, with her own unique background and personality, navigates the challenges of aging. Mei Yi, who runs a cafe, grapples with the loss of her son. The arrival of a new waitress, Xiao Xue, brings unexpected changes to her life. Teacher Song maintains a busy schedule, occasionally causing trouble for her daughter. Liu Da Fu's efforts to improve her son's life backfire, leading to his unhappiness. Hong Jie, a local resident, worries most about her children despite having everything she needs. Ai Lin, admired for her beauty, experiences profound loneliness. Their paths cross at a 'health lecture,' and as they unite to outsmart scammers, they form lasting friendships.

Season 3 revolves around the theme of autumn, bringing changes to the peaceful lives of Shiro, Yoshi, and Haru. Haru connects with a mysterious man named Keita online, who later becomes a guest at their pension. Keita, a handsome man who works at a record label in Tokyo, keeps his age a secret, captivating Haru with his kind nature while Yoshi remains wary. Meanwhile, Shiro finds himself drawn to Akane, an alluring woman he meets at a local sweet potato shop. As his birthday approaches, Shiro, a middle-aged man, discovers the possibility of a new romance stirring within him.

A heartfelt drama that offers a hopeful perspective on bitterness, suffering, and healing within a family set against the stunning yet remote backdrop of Kangwon Province. After her husband's business fails, Jung Jae In finds herself with no choice but to return to her rural hometown with her two daughters, moving in with her father. [KoreanDramaOrg]

Park Wan is a translator who is frequently encouraged by her mother, Jang Nan Hee, to spend time with her older friends: Jo Hee Ja, Moon Jung Ah, Oh Choong Nam, and Lee Yeong Won

Geum Hee has spent a decade married to Joon Ho, standing by him as he pursued his goal of becoming a successful plastic surgeon

Romantic feelings and intentions often start off innocently among young people, but eventually, they must progress in their relationship, which involves a commitment and greater responsibilities. This narrative follows a young man who recovers from an unforeseen setback. Throughout his journey, he discovers solutions to his challenges and seeks out happiness. A young father still attending college must mature quickly to support his family, yet he inspires others by triumphing over the numerous hurdles he faces. (MBC)

Iijima Yu, a working woman, shares a home with her mother, Iijima Mitsuko. Despite being surrounded by love, Yu has not yet found romance. Meanwhile, her mother finds herself falling for Honnodera Toshihiko. Yu's path crosses with Tanaka Yohei, a new colleague at her workplace, hinting at a promising future for both of them. (DramaWiki)

With your support, I find the strength to persevere... I vow to never release this intertwined hand! This heartfelt tale showcases the bonds between parents and children, men and women, and all humanity. Against all odds, a woman who has been through three divorces raises three children from different fathers as a single mother. She navigates life's challenges without losing herself, facing obstacles daily in the enduring love shared between mother and child. (tvdrama-db.com)

This drama showcases a father's affection for his family and the bond among siblings in a heartfelt and humorous manner.

The tale follows a family of five as they come to understand the true essence of family amidst a string of disputes. When Father Zheng unexpectedly falls ill and later wakes from a coma, he takes the opportunity to reflect on his actions and mend old wounds. In doing so, he aids his four children - a dedicated surgeon, a manager of a housekeeping company, an owner of an auto repair shop, and a spoiled youngest daughter - in discovering themselves, appreciating life, and embracing their true selves.

The drama portrays the journey of entrepreneurs Xiang Cheng Hui, Lin Yi Shan, Yang Bu Zhen, and their successors as they navigate the challenges of reform and opening up in the era of the "new normal." They engage in a conflict over the location of a new base but eventually reach a peaceful resolution. Zhang Lu, a Tsinghua University student, visits Wenzhou and learns about Xiang Cheng Hui and Lin Yi Shan's advancements in the new energy industry. She ends up marrying Lin Yi Shan. Yang Bu Zhen's fashion city project garners attention online, despite facing a cold war with his celebrity wife. Xiang Cheng Hui's son, along with Pan Xiao Yong and Ireland, establish the e-commerce platform "Pin Shanggu." Meanwhile, Yang Tian Zhen and Lin Dan Feng found the "Red Wine Castle" and encounter numerous challenges. Their internet philanthropy initiatives attract a wide audience, while their personal lives are filled with drama. The three entrepreneurs venture into private banking, creating ripples in the industry. Their descendants, including Xiang Xiang, benefit from the government's strong backing of the internet sector, propelling the new generation of Wenzhou residents to the forefront of the modern era.

During the late 1970s, the Zhuang and Lin families resided in a small alley within the residential area of a cotton spinning factory in Suzhou. Zhuang Chao Ying, a teacher, and his wife, Huang Ling, made their children's exams a top priority as the college entrance examination resumed. Their neighbors, Lin Wu Feng and Song Ying, also began focusing on their son's studies under their influence. The Zhuang family appeared harmonious and respectable, with their son Zhuang Tu Nan being diligent and studious, and their daughter Zhuang Xiao Ting being well-behaved and sensible. However, Zhuang Chao Ying's cowardice and excessive filial piety led to problems within the family. On the other hand, the Lin family lived by their own rules, with their mischievous son, Lin Dong Zhe. Despite this, the couple supported each other, fostering mutual respect between parents and children, creating a lively and fulfilling family dynamic. Adapting to changing times, Lin Wu Feng and Song Ying relocated their family to Guangzhou in search of new opportunities. Separated from childhood friends Zhuang Xiao Ting and Lin Dong Zhe, they eventually realized their feelings for each other and decided to attend the same university. Despite facing obstacles from family and reality after graduation, they remained committed to each other. After overcoming various challenges, Zhuang Tu Nan and Li Jia also became a couple.

Kamikawa Ryohei, a 35-year-old man employed by a multinational corporation, enjoys a content family life with his wife and son. However, when he decides to make a career change and resign from his job, his wife unexpectedly disappears, leaving him to manage the household and raise their son on his own. On the other hand, Saeki Shinichiro, aged 61, chooses to live independently after losing his wife to an illness shortly after retiring from his long-time job.

Shiro and his daughter Haru manage the guesthouse "Love Is Pink"

Eun Chae Ryung is a pampered daughter who has always depended entirely on her father. However, when he gets into an accident one day, she is abruptly jolted out of her protected existence and compelled to grow up, facing a series of challenges that ultimately lead her to become self-sufficient.

Chi Hwan values wealth and power over following the law and aspires to be at the top of society. He faced tragedy at a young age when his mother died under suspicious circumstances, leading him to endure poverty and war on his own. Determined to escape his hardships, he climbed out of poverty to achieve great success as the chairman of Shine Cosmetics. Se Na, who is actually Yi Chang's biological daughter, grows up believing she is Chi Hwan's daughter and dreams of inheriting his fortune. She longs to be with Jin Woo, but soon realizes he is in love with Hae In, Chi Hwan's biological daughter. In a twist of fate, Hae In lost her mother as a child and was adopted by Yi Chang. How will the destinies of these fathers and daughters unfold?

The narrative unfolds as men and women in their 40s reunite after three decades, thanks to an event organized by a former classmate. While they keep their current lives concealed, they relish the gathering and subsequently return to their daily routines. However, two of the attendees start meeting regularly, reigniting past passions and leading to a perilous romantic entanglement. The story intricately explores the tensions within families and the weight of everyday life, yet as they unravel the enigma, the bonds of friendship and affection among them withstand numerous challenges and reconciliations. This tale captures the loneliness and struggles of middle age in contemporary existence, which imposes the obligations of parenthood and partnership upon them, offering a chance to reflect on the lives they inadvertently left behind long ago.

When Yoon Jung Won faces betrayal from those she held dear, including family and friends she fully relied on, she becomes aware of the harshness of human nature. This series centers on an insurance planner wrongfully accused of a crime she did not commit, as she seeks justice following her time in prison. The narrative carries a message of hope, highlighting that despite the suffering caused by those around her, she ultimately discovers solace and support from new individuals she meets along her journey. (MBC)

The narrative revolves around the Na family, illustrating the various challenges and scenarios encountered by contemporary families, which evoke both laughter and tears from audiences. The plot focuses on the four daughters of Na Yangal, a retired military officer turned apartment complex security guard, and his wife, Myung Ja. The eldest daughter, Deok Chil, experiences a tumultuous journey following her divorce from her unfaithful husband, Soo Han, who is discovered having an affair with her best friend. She subsequently marries her business partner, Wang Seon Taek, but encounters typical issues faced by remarried couples, particularly with Seon Taek's eldest daughter, Sora, who is hostile towards Deok Chil. The spirited and self-assured second daughter, Seol Chil, regarded as the family's pride and the son her father wished for, serves as a captain in the Korean army. She harbors feelings for her friend Il Han, while another soldier, Ha Nam, is infatuated with her. Seol Chil’s fraternal twin, Mi Chil, is not only attractive but also the family's troublemaker, harboring jealousy and resentment towards Seol Chil for being Mr. Na's favorite. In a bid for revenge, Mi Chil pursues Il Han, but soon encounters challenges in her own relationship with him. Lastly, the youngest daughter, Teng Chil, finds herself pregnant and marries her boyfriend, Tae Ja, at a young age. However, she soon struggles with numerous conflicts, as Tae Ja has difficulty being faithful to her, compounded by the challenges posed by her strict and demanding mother-in-law.

Kuranaga Haruyuki is employed at the community assistance center in the city hall of Wani no Kuni. Over the past three years, he has been under significant stress and dealing with daily stomach pains. His hardworking, respectful, organized, cautious, and reserved nature often puts him in difficult situations with his colleagues, his boss who is both arrogant and timid, and the demanding citizens he serves. Kuranaga finds solace in venting to his tropical fish companions while enjoying a glass of low-alcohol beer. However, a sudden emergency causes him to finally snap. This triggers his inner sense of justice, prompting him to confront and resolve issues both at work and within his family, leading to a heartwarming resolution.

A story revolves around a grandfather and his granddaughter, whose contrasting personalities come together over a weekend, allowing them to develop a friendship and strengthen their connection.

Qiu Dong Na has faced challenges in her post-graduation life. She has struggled in her career, dealing with mistreatment from colleagues and manipulation from her boss. After losing her job, she reluctantly joins an accounting firm co-owned by an old acquaintance, Gu Fei, and her former crush's stepmother, ChengFan Yang. Fei praises Dong Na's skills as a 'useful tool', noting her ability to tackle difficult tasks without hesitation. However, she finds working under Fei's unconventional leadership style to be challenging. Despite facing doubts and inequality due to her background, Dong Na finds support from her mother, Qiu Xiao Xia, as she navigates through work and personal issues.

During the late 1950s, the Republic of China, which had endured over fifty years of war, celebrated its tenth anniversary. Yang Xiao Yi, Liu Shi Jun, and their peers are young individuals of this new era embarking on a path to leave their mark on the world. Raised in a single-parent household, Yang Xiao Yi is resolute in uncovering the true identity of her biological father. As she navigates through challenges with her family, friends, and loved ones, she learns valuable lessons and remains resilient in the face of adversity.

The narrative centers around Lu Xiao Nan (played by Tina Tang), an independent woman who harbors a fear of marriage due to the complexities involved in merging two lives and families. However, she meets Kevin (portrayed by William Chan), a university professor who is unfettered by familial ties and possesses a warm and adaptable nature. Despite her initial reservations, Xiao Nan marries Kevin and supports him in his quest to reconnect with his estranged family. As they navigate the challenges of blending into his family, Xiao Nan finds solace and purpose with the help of her supportive husband. Meanwhile, Kevin unravels the mysteries surrounding his childhood amnesia. The series is available in two versions: 66 episodes lasting 35-55 minutes each for TV viewing, or 70 episodes of 45 minutes each for DVD watching.

The narrative follows the journey of two elderly friends who find solace in each other as they navigate the challenges of letting go of earthly concerns. Through the eyes of Gu Jia Yi, we gain insight into the lives and hardships faced by her mother and her mother's companions.

A tale about a businessman who transitions into a stay-at-home dad and the ensuing comedy between father and son. Xiong Xiong, a 35-year-old man, holds the position of general manager at an investment firm. Just as he was on the verge of career success, his assistant Li You Wei betrays him, resulting in his termination. Following a falling out with his wife Jin Zi, Xiong Xiong is left to care for their rebellious son Wei Ni and young daughter on his own.

A daughter discovers she has two fathers when she unexpectedly meets her biological father, realizing that the man she has always known as her father is actually her stepfather. Wang Xiao Mi, after graduating from university, becomes enamored with the talk show industry in China. She impresses investor Ke Lei during an open mic session and secures a job. Wang Xiao Mi then invites her parents to watch her performance, leading her mother Luo Qing to recognize Ke Lei as her ex-husband whom she has not seen in two decades.

In the upcoming series, "Love" will be a central theme that deeply impacts the emotions of the Imai family and their close companions

In Pak Siu Yau's perspective, her three daughters are as precious as jewels. She strongly believes that a woman's ultimate fortune lies in marrying a man of wealth. To secure a prosperous future for her daughters, she has been grooming them from a young age, hoping they will wed into affluent families as they grow older. Yau's eldest daughter, Hong Nga Yin, initially disagrees with her mother's values. However, upon seeing that Yin's suitor is Ko Cheung Sing, a wealthy man, she allows Yin to pursue her choice. Yau's second daughter, Hong Nga Tung, is a hopeless romantic but struggles in her love life. To make amends, Yau aims to pair her with Ho Chit Nam, the son of Hong Kong's renowned business magnate, Ho Fung. The youngest sister, Hong Nga Sz, understands Yau's worries. Having overcome a divorce, Sz now sets her sights on Fung. Yau's persistence pays off, as her daughters all marry affluent men. Despite this, money fails to bring them joy, and the sisters slowly succumb to vanity.

The 62nd NHK Asadora Drama titled Watashi no Aozora is set in Oma-cho, Aomori and Chuo-ku, Tokyo. The series follows the journey of Kitayama Nazuna, a young mother, and her son Taiyo from Ohma, a small town in Aomori. Taiyo's father, Murai Kento, had dreams of becoming a professional boxer but had to give up due to a detached retina. Unaware of Nazuna's pregnancy, Kento left for America with another woman for eye treatment. After a successful operation, he returned to boxing but faced challenges in achieving success. Meanwhile, Nazuna gave birth to Taiyo and moved to Tokyo in search of Kento. Their paths cross by chance, leading Kento to try to reconnect with his newfound family. The series delves into their journey as they navigate the complexities of forming a family together.

A tale about a mother who becomes separated from her child and dedicates her life to reuniting with her son, despite the challenges posed by the feudal society.

Hey, stay away from him... well, he may not be my husband, but he belongs to me! Due to popular demand, the My Blue Sky story continues! What happened to Nazuna, her lively son Taiyo, and Kento, the man who left them to pursue a career in boxing? The last time we saw Nazuna two years ago, she had chosen to keep her child and remain in Tokyo after being abandoned at the wedding altar. Being a single mother was challenging, but she and her son were able to create a comfortable life for themselves. Now, Kento and Nazuna have reunited, and although they are not married, they live in separate apartments nearby, each following their own aspirations. Taiyo, getting ready for fourth grade, receives support from both his parents, and their unconventional family dynamic surprisingly works well. Things take a twist when Kento falls in love with another woman. Koyuki, reserved and timid, is the complete opposite of the outgoing and direct Nazuna. Nazuna and Taiyo are forced to reconsider their unique family setup as a result. Nazuna decides to confront the situation head-on and fight for the family she has built. Get ready, anything can happen!

During her childhood, Hiromi endured mistreatment from her mother. As she matures, she is unable to be with the man she loves and is deceived by her close friend, Chikako. Hiromi chooses to raise a girl as her own child after Chikako abandons her, but the peace is disrupted when the daughter discovers Hiromi is not her biological mother.

A series of 10 episodes featuring an omnibus drama created by 10 distinct scriptwriters exploring the relationships between fathers and their children.

Ayaka Miyata is employed at a company that produces stationery and is set to marry her coworker, Yuichi Hiyama. Despite this, she is hesitant to share the news with her mother, Harumi. Ayaka and Harumi have been estranged since a major disagreement they had when Ayaka was 20 years old. Harumi has always kept the identity of Ayaka's father a secret since she was a child. One day, Yuichi urges Ayaka to inform her mother, which leads to Harumi visiting the company the following day to evaluate whether Yuichi is a suitable partner. During the meeting, Yuichi and Harumi hit it off and she agrees to attend the wedding dress fitting. Unfortunately, on the day of the fitting, Harumi is rushed to the hospital after suffering from a sudden brain hemorrhage. Despite three months passing, she remains unconscious. Meanwhile, Ayaka discovers her mother's living will from a nurse, revealing that she had been exchanging diaries with her high school classmates. Using the diary as a guide, Ayaka travels to Kaga City in Ishikawa Prefecture, her mother's hometown. The revelations in the diary, filled with both lies and harsh truths, ultimately lead Ayaka to find true happiness.

Ten years ago, after Go Ya's father had an affair, she had to pause her college education and start working to help support her mother and siblings. While her circumstances were bleak, she met Min Ji Seok, who made her feel cherished for the first time, igniting a deep love between them. However, it turns out that Ji Seok's aunt is the same woman involved in the affair with Go Ya's father. This forces Go Ya to choose between her relationship with Ji Seok and her loyalty to her mother. Ultimately, they decide to deceive those around them in order to maintain both connections. "Enemies from the Past" tells the tale of two families caught in a web of secrets and negative karma, who eventually achieve reconciliation through the strength of forgiveness. (MBC)

Eun Sol is the sole daughter of the CEO of a footwear manufacturing firm. She enjoys a joyful existence, but an unforeseen event leads to her amnesia, prompting her to adopt the name Dal Soon. With her cheerful demeanor and passion for shoes, Dal Soon uncovers her history and achieves success as a master shoemaker.

The narrative revolves around two married couples facing potential collapse as both the husbands and wives develop feelings for others. Na Eun Jin is a diligent, optimistic, and cheerful individual who experiences disappointment due to her unfaithful husband, prompting her to discover a new facet of herself. On the other hand, Yoo Jae Hak is a prosperous CEO, a respected father of two sons, and a husband to his loyal wife. He believed he was content in his life until he finds himself drawn to Eun Jin, leading him to introspect about his existence and the struggle between his family obligations and his emotions for Eun Jin.

Harada Kazumi has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and has been informed that she has a year left to live. In the time remaining, she and her husband Kensuke decide to revisit the neighborhood where they started their life together, unaware of the concept of mortality. During their visit, they not only reminisce about their past but also contemplate their future together. As the inevitable day draws near, they must find a way to cope with loss and move forward with a positive outlook on life.

At 25 years old, Kishibe Midori is employed in the editorial division of a fashion magazine under a large publishing corporation. However, due to the cancellation of the fashion magazine, Kishibe Midori is reassigned to the editorial team for a dictionary. In her new workplace, she encounters individuals with unique personalities, including the head of the department, Majime Mitsuya. Initially facing challenges, Kishibe Midori gradually finds motivation in the dedication and passion of her colleagues who have been working on the dictionary for more than ten years. She discovers the beauty in the words she handles and begins to take pride in her work, experiencing a sense of accomplishment.

The film narrates the tale of a family of four, with a central focus on the strained relationship between a father and his son. Chang Bao Tong, a strict middle school teacher, places high expectations on his children, Tian Zi and Jia Hui. In contrast, his wife Xiao Tao is a nurturing homemaker and mother. Tian Zi, the troublemaker, experiences failure in the university entrance exam for the second time, whereas Jia Hui successfully secures admission into the university of her father's choice. As Bao Tong urges his son to retake preparatory classes, he comes to terms with the realization that he cannot exert the same level of control over his daughter's life now that she has entered university.

The story takes place in Tenma, Osaka, where Matsukichi, the son of a samurai, faces danger after his father is killed due to a grudge. Luckily, Wasuke, the owner of Ikawa store, comes to his rescue and saves his life. Matsukichi decides to work at the store instead of pursuing his dream of becoming a samurai like his father. While working at Ikawa, Matsukichi successfully handles various issues related to store credit. This narrative is inspired by Takada Kaoru's novel "Gin Nikan."

Ji-Young possesses a cheerful disposition. In light of challenging circumstances, she decides to become a surrogate mother. Her optimistic nature helps her navigate through difficulties as she strives to find joy.

Every family faces its own challenges, but what occurs when the head of the family becomes dissatisfied with the conduct of his offspring? Cha Bong Soon is not willing to passively endure poor treatment from his three grown children – Cha Kang Shim, Cha Gang Jae, and Cha Dal Bong – and opts to pursue legal measures against them. Amid this turmoil, Kang Shim struggles to concentrate on her role as the secretary to the president of Daeoh Company, frequently clashing with the president's son, Moon Tae Joo, who serves as the company director.

Park Yoo Ha, a committed healthcare worker, is inspired by her father's sacrifices to pursue a career in medicine. Her father, who single-handedly raised four children, witnessed his eldest daughter marry into a wealthy family. Unexpectedly, his first love, now a prosperous businesswoman, reenters his life. At the same time, Jung Eun Tae, a physician who has volunteered overseas, comes back to Korea feeling disillusioned by his father's emphasis on career over family, which has caused him to shy away from marriage.

Feeling confined in a stagnant four-year relationship and hesitant to move towards marriage, Lee Jeong In stumbles into Yoo Ji Ho's pharmacy one morning, nursing a hangover from a night out with her friend. As she attempts to pull herself together before heading to work, Jeong In realizes she has left her wallet behind and is unable to pay. Despite her abrasive demeanor, Ji Ho graciously assists Jeong In. What starts as an ordinary daily encounter gradually evolves into a stronger bond as the two become increasingly attracted to each other. They embark on a clandestine friendship while navigating the complexities of family and societal expectations.