The upcoming JTBC drama We Are All Trying Here has unveiled a compelling new teaser that centers on the struggles of an aspiring filmmaker and the unexpected encounter that could change his path. Led by acclaimed actors Koo Kyo-hwan and Go Youn-jung, the series explores themes of persistence, self-doubt, and the search for meaning in a world filled with pressure and comparison.
Koo Kyo-hwan takes on the role of Hwang Dong-man, a man who has dedicated two decades to his dream of debuting as a film director. Surrounded by highly successful peers in the industry, he grapples with feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Go Youn-jung portrays Byun Eun-ah, a producer whose fresh perspective and recognition of Hwang Dong-man’s talent introduce a glimmer of hope into his otherwise solitary journey. The teaser promises an intimate look at how these two characters, each carrying their own burdens, might find solace and inspiration in one another.
The newly released video opens by emphasizing Hwang Dong-man’s isolated persistence as he continues striving toward his filmmaking ambitions after twenty years of effort. Those around him offer only cynical remarks such as, “Do you really think Hwang Dong Man can debut?” and “Shouldn’t someone tell him to just quit already?” Even his older brother Hwang Jin-man (Park Hae-joon) scolds him, saying that having a proper job means “waking up in the morning, washing up, going out, and clenching your teeth as you give it your all like your life depends on it.”
In the teaser, Hwang Dong-man finds himself at a gathering with a group of eight accomplished professionals from the film world, including directors, planning producers, and producers. A heavy silence descends upon his arrival, amplifying his inner anxiety and deep sense of loneliness amid their evident achievements. Despite the discouraging atmosphere, he resolves to prove his capabilities through any means possible, highlighting the quiet desperation that drives his continued efforts.
In a subsequent scene, Hwang Dong-man crosses paths with Byun Eun-ah (Go Youn-jung), who immediately sees value in him that others have overlooked. She views him as someone brimming with endless possibilities and shows genuine interest in the script he has written, a project that the rest of the group had quickly rejected.
Watch the new teaser below:
The production shared a statement: “The preview for episode 1 captures Hwang Dong Man’s lonely reality and the shining variable named Byun Eun Ah who appears before him. The two, who lived lonely lives, are expected to meet and begin to brighten each other’s worlds. Please tune in to the premiere of ‘We Are All Trying Here.’”
Beyond the central duo, We Are All Trying Here features a strong ensemble cast, including Oh Jung-se and Kang Mal-geum in key supporting roles. The narrative delves into the psychological toll of chasing ambitions while confronting envy, jealousy, and societal expectations. Viewers can anticipate layered performances that portray the internal battles faced by individuals striving to find worth in their personal and professional lives. The drama’s realistic depiction of these struggles, combined with moments of quiet connection, sets it apart as a thoughtful exploration of human resilience.
The series is scheduled to premiere on April 18 at 10:40 p.m. KST on JTBC and will be available to stream on Netflix for international audiences.
Sources: JTBC Drama - YouTube and Naver
