How 'We Are All Trying Here' comforts exhausted Koreans

Hwang Dong-man, played by actor Koo Kyo-hwan in a scene from the JTBC drama series "We Are All Trying Here" / Captured from JTBC

“We Are All Trying Here” explores emotional vulnerability. While many contemporary series mask trauma behind metaphors, the JTBC drama openly exposes the deepest insecurities of its characters.

Instead of relying on idealized figures to offer comfort, the series centers on clumsy, self-doubting social misfits. This focus provides viewers with an unexpected sense of relief through the characters' imperfections.

Hwang Dong-man exemplifies this departure from the norms. Portrayed by actor Koo Kyo-hwan, Dong-man completely lacks the unwavering confidence and charisma typical of male leads.

He constantly anticipates failure and is easily shaken by minor anxieties. Even when achieving success, he focuses on the potential for disaster rather than celebrating the milestone. Yet, audiences find his profound self-doubt highly realistic rather than frustrating.

Byeon Eun-a, played by actor Go Youn-jung, in a scene from the JTBC drama series "We Are All Trying Here" / Captured from JTBC

The show also subverts contemporary romantic tropes, which often prioritize fast-paced, intense emotional arcs. The relationship between Dong-man and Eun-a, played by actor Go Youn-jung, unfolds slowly and quietly. They do not attempt to rescue each other. Instead, they try to understand one another.

In a defining scene, Dong-man tells Eun-a, “I hope the world gets to see what kind of writer you are, Eun-a.” This line signals a deep mutual recognition of her talent and potential rather than serving as empty platitudes.

The series establishes that true comfort stems from understanding rather than simple kindness. It replaces empty reassurances like “It is all right” with the far more grounding “I know why you are like that.”

The narrative calmly acknowledges that people do not change easily, anxiety lingers and self-loathing rarely disappears completely. However, it suggests that one person’s belief can help another move slightly forward.

The show avoids forcing isolated characters into tearful camaraderie. Instead, it portrays flawed characters slowly building human connections, demonstrating how standing beside someone can prevent them from collapsing even if it cannot completely save them.

In an era that constantly demands proof of a perfect life, the JTBC drama embraces those who fall short. By acknowledging everyone's internal battles with their own sense of worthlessness, the series offers quiet courage to its viewers.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.