A new Korean drama is set to offer comfort to modern viewers looking to prove their worth in an increasingly competitive world. JTBC’s final weekend series on April 18 We’re all trying herewritten by Park Hae Young, has finally premiered.
We’re all trying here follows the journey of a man consumed by jealousy and inferiority as he struggles among more successful colleagues, 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 uncommon. The drama begins at this point, delving deeply into the inner psychology of modern individuals who appear ordinary on the outside but constantly doubt and belittle themselves.
In the press conference held on April 17, director Cha Young Hoon clearly explained the central message of the drama. He underlined, “This isn’t a ‘cathartic success story’ about a director who makes his debut after 20 years and becomes a successful filmmaker. Instead, it’s about telling viewers that today’s frustration, failure, embarrassment and self-loathing don’t just belong to them – we all live with them.”
The drama stands out by giving meaning to simplicity “lasting life”. Rather than relying on dramatic plot twists or sensational events, it focuses on the characters’ emotions and relationships, promising a quiet but profound resonance with viewers.
The production team is equally impressive. Writer Park Hae Young, known for acclaimed works such as My lord AND My liberation notesis celebrated for its profound exploration of human emotion and realistic dialogue. Its storytelling has long been praised for moving audiences without relying on over-the-top 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 expected to create a powerful synergy.
The cast is equally strong, with 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 make his directorial debut while battling jealousy and insecurity. Although outwardly lively, he harbors a deep desire for recognition and constant anxiety.
Go Youn Jung plays Byeon Eun Ah, a schedule producer at a film company who suffers from abandonment anxiety. Whenever he feels fear or unsteadiness, he experiences nosebleeds, a physical manifestation of his trauma. Through Dong Man, he begins to deal with new emotions.
Meanwhile, Oh Jung Se and Kang Mal Geum play a married couple: director Park Kyung Se and company CEO Go Hye Jin. Park Hae Joon plays the role of Dong Man’s older brother, a man whose life takes an unexpected turn after winning a literary competition.
Despite its strong premise, We’re all trying here faces stiff competition. It airs alongside MBC Perfect crown with IU and Byeon Woo Seok, as well as those from SBS Ghost lawyer with Yoo Yeon Seok and Esom.
While not airing at exactly the same time, We’re all trying here overlaps these Saturday dramas, creating a competitive lineup on the weekend. It airs on Saturdays at 10.40pm and on Sundays at 10.30pm, while its rivals occupy the 9.50pm time slot.
For viewers, this means a wider range of choices, with each drama offering a distinct tone and narrative style. Competition is expected to intensify, drawing more attention to the evolving landscape of Korean television.
Planned as a 12-episode series, We’re all trying here aims to provide a dense narrative focused on emotional depth and relationships between characters. 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 can bring empathy; for others, healing or even the possibility of looking inside.
Anticipation is already high, with viewers expressing excitement online: “It’s finally here,” “It looks like another masterpiece” “I’ve waited so long,” “I will definitely watch live,” AND “I’m sure it will be great.”
True to its title, We’re all trying here could ultimately become a story not just about its characters, but about all of us navigating the uncertainties of modern life.
Sources: Wikitree
