Actor Oh Jung-se returns to the small screen with a psychologically layered role. He stars in JTBC's weekend drama My Own Worthlessness Battle (working title: Everyone Is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness), written by Park Hae-young and directed by Cha Young-hoon.
"Even after just two episodes, you'll find yourself recommending it to others," Oh said, signaling strong confidence in the project.
A Story About Envy, Growth, and Inner Conflict
The series follows a man struggling with feelings of inferiority among more successful peers, tracing his journey toward emotional peace. It marks the latest work from Park Hae-young, known for My Liberation Notes, and continues her signature exploration of human psychology.
Oh Jung-se plays Park Kyung-se, a film director affiliated with Gobak Film and a member of an elite industry circle known as the "Group of Eight." Unlike the protagonist Hwang Dong-man (played by Koo Kyo-hwan), Kyung-se has already released five films, positioning him outwardly as a successful figure.
"An Adult Still Growing"
Despite his achievements, Oh defines his character as "an adult who hasn't fully grown yet." Kyung-se is someone who has spent his life trying to prove his worth—an internal struggle that resonates throughout the narrative.
"The script gently touched on the immature parts within us," he explained. "It helped organize complicated emotions into something simple and clear."
He added that he was deeply attached to the dialogue. "Every line felt precious. I wanted to deliver it 100%, but I adjusted to about 98% to avoid pushing myself too far."
Reunion with Director Cha Young-hoon
This project reunites Oh with director Cha Young-hoon, known for When the Camellia Blooms. Reflecting on their collaboration, Oh said he felt both grateful and comfortable.
"He created a stable center on set, allowing actors the freedom to explore their performances," Oh noted.
A Relationship Built on Rivalry and Reflection
A key highlight is the complex relationship between Kyung-se and Dong-man. Oh interprets the dynamic as deeply intertwined.
"People may see Dong-man as insecure, but Kyung-se is another version of him," he said. "They support each other while also envying one another."
Their connection becomes a mirror—each representing what the other could have been.
Realistic Chemistry and Emotional Depth
Oh also emphasized the realism of the "Group of Eight," describing them as if they were real-life film directors brought onto the screen. He praised the natural chemistry on set, noting that filming felt comfortable and immersive.
Regarding Kyung-se's wife, Go Hye-jin (played by Kang Mal-geum), he described the experience as "unexpected and deeply meaningful," offering emotional nuances beyond what he initially imagined.
"You'll Want the Next Episode Immediately"
Closing with high anticipation, Oh said, "You'll find yourself thinking, 'Why is each episode so short? I want the next one already.'"
My Own Worthlessness Battle premieres on April 18 at 10:40 PM (KST) on JTBC.
