I'll be honest, in the beginning I wasn't reallly into it. The trailer did not impress me and I didn't start it until more than half the drama was aired. However, as I kept on watching it, it just became better. Sure, there were moments where I thought they were dragging it. But overall, it is definitely an interesting drama.

Hi Bye, Mama! is in no way a light watch. This drama, although a heartwarming story about the warmth of family/close ones, is also about the loss of somebody precious. And they go hard with that plot. It's one of those dramas that make you reflect upon your own life. (Side note: I ended up writing a note to my mom because of it. Just in case...) Every episode reminds you to treasure the everyday moments.

There isn't much fantasy to it except Cha Yuri coming back to life. It's mostly about the relationship between the characters, which by the way is admirable. The way Cho Ganghwa grieves is heart-rendering and pretty much realistic. However, if there's anything this drama taught me is that life goes on. It doesn't stop for anybody and as sad as it is, the remaining need to move on with it.

They do a good job at blending the past and present. This way we can understand what losing Cha Yuri meant to others. We can slightly realize their pain.

Acting wise, the entire cast did a superb job. The chemistry between characters is one of the best I've seen. You won't be able to hate any character. Everybody's amazing! However, I would like to point out that Lee Kyu Hyung and Kim Mi Kyung were exceptionally applaudable. They made us feel each emotion. Apart from these two, Go Bo Gyeol's Oh Min Jung is probably my most favourite character. I have so much respect for her. She not only loves Seo Woo like her own daughter but she also fights with Ganghwa for not treating her like a real mother.

Overall, I'd recommend it. It might seem like a sob story but trust me it's one of those with an important message in each episode. The writer doesn't try to be too creative with it. They don't take any risks so it's pretty smooth and consistent. The ending was bittersweet but it remained true to the plot. As for the music, there's one song that stands out: In The Night - Parc Jae Jung

P.S. Seo Woo Jin (playing Seo Woo). This kid is adorable! I loved him! Also, Lee Kyu Hyung really showed versatility as an actor with this one. I saw him in Prison Playbook and fell in love. His character is VERY VERY different in it.