JTBC’s drama “We Are All Trying Here” is drawing mixed reactions after its so called “cardigan hug” scene became a hot topic online.
In the episode that aired on May 16, Hwang Dong Man, played by Koo Kyo Hwan, became extremely anxious ahead of his long awaited debut as a director.
Byun Eun Ah, played by Go Youn Jung, comforted him by pulling him into the cardigan she was wearing.
She told him, “If you ask me to run away together, I will run away with you. If you ask me to hide for the rest of our lives, I will hide with you.” Hwang Dong Man then said, “I like it,” as he found comfort in her arms.
After the episode aired, some viewers said the scene felt uncomfortable and outdated. They felt that the scene showed a young female character accepting an older male character’s fear and weakness in a way that looked too much like a mother figure.
Some reacted strongly, saying, “It is bizarre”, “It is disgusting”, and “I feel insulted as a woman”.
However, others defended the scene and said it was meant to show emotional comfort and salvation.
They said Byun Eun Ah’s words about running away together, followed by the cardigan hug, showed her willingness to accept Hwang Dong Man even in his weakest moment.
Supporters of the scene commented, “It was a deeply moving comfort,” and “I understand Byun Eun Ah’s feeling of wanting to become a strong mother.”
The debate has drawn more attention to writer Park Hae Young, who is known for emotional dramas such as “My Mister” and “My Liberation Notes”.
Viewers are now watching to see how “We Are All Trying Here” will handle its emotional story after the controversy.
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