we are all trying here drama review

JTBC’s new weekend drama “We Are All Trying Here” is already generating strong word-of-mouth buzz, even with a modest ratings debut.

Starring Go Youn Jung and Koo Kyo Hwan, the series premiered on April 18 and quickly stood out for its quiet, emotionally resonant storytelling.

The drama recorded 2.2% viewership for its premiere episode. Meanwhile, competing series Perfect Crown achieved 11.1%, airing roughly 30 minutes earlier and overlapping in audience.

Despite the gap, industry insiders stress that early ratings may not reflect the drama’s long-term potential.

The series reunites writer Park Hae Young — known for My Mister and My Liberation Notes — with director Cha Young Hoon.

Rather than relying on fast-paced plot twists, the drama focuses on:

  • Emotional wounds and insecurities
  • Loneliness and quiet despair
  • Gradual character growth

This slow-burn narrative style is a defining hallmark of Park Hae Young’s writing.

Viewers have already pointed out similarities to My Mister and My Liberation Notes. Like these works, “We Are All Trying Here” builds a mutual healing narrative, where emotionally scarred characters gradually become each other’s support system.

The drama’s emotional core lies in the relationship between Hwang Dong Man (Koo Kyo Hwan) and Byun Eun Ah (Go Youn Jung). As Dong Man is overlooked by society and Eun Ah struggles with emotional overload, they begin to recognize each other’s pain — forming a quiet yet powerful connection.

Their evolving bond is widely seen as the drama’s strongest element.

Audience reactions have been notably positive:

  • I’m already hooked after 2 episodes.
  • This feels like classic Park Hae Young.
  • I want to binge it all at once.
  • Calm but deeply immersive.

The drama’s subtle emotional pull is resonating strongly with viewers.

Previous works by Park Hae Young show a similar pattern:

  • My Liberation Notes peaked at 6.7%
  • My Mister reached 7.4%
  • Another Miss Oh hit 10%

These dramas gained traction through word-of-mouth after episode 4, suggesting “We Are All Trying Here” could follow a similar trajectory.

While its ratings start may seem underwhelming, “We Are All Trying Here” is already proving its strength through storytelling, performances, and emotional depth.

Sources: 모바일 네이트 뉴스