A new Korean drama is set to offer comfort to modern viewers striving to prove their worth in an increasingly competitive world. On April 18, JTBC’s latest weekend series We Are All Trying Here, written by Park Hae Young, finally premiered.
We Are All Trying Here follows the journey of a man consumed by jealousy and inferiority as he struggles among more successful peers, ultimately seeking peace in his chaotic life.
In a reality where some succeed while others fall behind, feelings of relative deprivation and inferiority are no longer unfamiliar. The drama begins precisely at this point, delving deeply into the inner psychology of modern individuals who appear ordinary on the outside but constantly doubt and belittle themselves within.
At the press conference held on April 17, director Cha Young Hoon clearly explained the drama’s core message. He emphasized, “This is not a ‘cathartic success story’ about a director who debuts after 20 years and becomes a blockbuster filmmaker. Instead, it’s about telling viewers that today’s frustration, failure, embarrassment, and self-loathing are not theirs alone—we all live with them.”
The drama distinguishes itself by giving meaning to simply “enduring life.” Rather than relying on dramatic twists or sensational events, it focuses on characters’ emotions and relationships, promising a quiet yet profound resonance with viewers.
The production team is equally impressive. Writer Park Hae Young, known for acclaimed works like My Mister and My Liberation Notes, is celebrated for her deep exploration of human emotions and realistic dialogue. Her storytelling has long been praised for moving audiences without relying on exaggerated drama.
Joining her is director Cha Young Hoon, known for When the Camellia Blooms and Welcome to Samdal-ri. His warm humanistic approach and delicate direction are expected to elevate the emotional depth of the series. Together, the duo is anticipated to create powerful synergy.
The cast lineup is equally strong, featuring Koo Kyo Hwan, Go Youn Jung, Oh Jung Se, Kang Mal Geum, Park Hae Joon, Bae Jong Ok, Han Sun Hwa, Choi Won Young, Jeon Bae Soo, and Shim Hee Seop. Each portrays characters with different wounds and emotional voids, weaving a complex web of human relationships.
At the center is Hwang Dong Man, played by Koo Kyo Hwan, a man who has spent 20 years trying to debut as a film director while battling jealousy and insecurity. Though outwardly lively, he harbors a deep desire for recognition and constant anxiety.
Go Youn Jung plays Byeon Eun Ah, a planning producer at a film company who suffers from abandonment anxiety. Whenever she feels fear or instability, she experiences nosebleeds—a physical manifestation of her trauma. Through Dong Man, she begins to confront new emotions.
Meanwhile, Oh Jung Se and Kang Mal Geum portray a married couple—film director Park Kyung Se and company CEO Go Hye Jin. Park Hae Joon takes on the role of Dong Man’s older brother, a man whose life takes an unexpected turn after winning a literary contest.
Despite its strong premise, We Are All Trying Here faces tough competition. It airs alongside MBC’s Perfect Crown starring IU and Byeon Woo Seok, as well as SBS’s Phantom Lawyer featuring Yoo Yeon Seok and Esom.
While not airing at the exact same time, We Are All Trying Here overlaps with these dramas on Saturdays, creating a competitive weekend lineup. It airs Saturdays at 10:40 PM and Sundays at 10:30 PM, while its rivals occupy the 9:50 PM slot.
For viewers, this means a wider range of choices, with each drama offering a distinct tone and storytelling style. The competition is expected to intensify, drawing greater attention to the evolving landscape of Korean television.
Planned as a 12-episode series, We Are All Trying Here aims to deliver a tightly woven narrative focused on emotional depth and character relationships. Its premiere aired on April 18, marking the beginning of what could be one of the most talked-about dramas of the season.
Rather than glorifying success, the series tells the story of imperfect individuals, offering comfort and reflection. For some, it may bring empathy; for others, healing—or even a chance to look inward.
Anticipation is already high, with viewers expressing excitement online: “Finally it’s here,” “This feels like another masterpiece,” “I’ve been waiting so long,” “Definitely watching live,” and “I’m sure this will be amazing.”
True to its title, We Are All Trying Here may ultimately become a story not just about its characters, but about all of us navigating the uncertainties of modern life.
Sources: Wikitree
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