Koo Kyo Hwan Reflects on New Drama “We Are All Trying Here”

Koo Kyo Hwan has discussed his role in the upcoming JTBC drama We Are All Trying Here, offering insights into his character and the series’ themes. The drama centers around Hwang Dong Man, a man who feels left behind as his friends achieve success in their careers.

The Story of Hwang Dong Man

We Are All Trying Here follows Hwang Dong Man, portrayed by Koo Kyo Hwan, as he navigates feelings of inadequacy and envy. Surrounded by friends who have become successful producers, directors, and PDs, Hwang Dong Man feels stuck after 20 years. He attempts to cope with his insecurities through lengthy monologues.

“It Felt Like My Diary Had Been Leaked”

Upon first reading the script, Koo Kyo Hwan described the experience as if his personal diary had been exposed. He also expressed admiration for writer Park Hae Young’s ability to portray hidden truths with honesty. He noted, “By the time I finished reading, it felt like I had secretly peeked into everyone’s diary.”

A Character’s Raw Honesty

Koo Kyo Hwan shared a line from his character, Hwang Dong Man: “That’s the kind of guy I am. If someone shows me even a small kindness, I’d give them everything. But why should I be nice to people who don’t like me? I’m like litmus paper—if they’re acidic, I’m acidic; if they’re alkaline, I’m alkaline.” He was struck by how accurately the dialogue reflected his own unconscious patterns of speech.

Go Youn Jung’s Impactful Performance

The actor highlighted the dynamic between his character and Byun Eun Ah, played by Go Youn Jung. He explained that Byun Eun Ah encourages Hwang Dong Man to confront his emotions and provides him with a sense of solace. He noted that meeting her allows Dong Man to quiet his constant chatter and face his inner struggles.

Praise for Go Youn Jung

Koo Kyo Hwan offered high praise for Go Youn Jung’s acting abilities. He described her as possessing both a bright innocence and a mature capacity for empathy. He stated, “She has a bright, easygoing innocence while also possessing the maturity to embrace others. The more I see her, the more fascinating and admirable she is.”

He further commented on her subtle yet powerful performance style, saying, “She’s an actress who can speak through her eyes without even opening her mouth. There were many scenes where Dong Man talks nonstop while Eun Ah simply listens, but by the end of the scene, it felt like I had heard her voice all along.”