Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Author: Kim Ryeo‑ryeong (trans. by The KoLab)
Genre: Feminist Satire / Contemporary Korean Fiction / Light Thriller
Ideal For: Readers intrigued by social commentary, unusual premises, and Netflix-ready twists
Imagine a world where marriage can be rented like a designer handbag—no strings attached, just a contract, a ceremony, and a tidy reset button. The Trunk, Kim Ryeo‑ryeong’s English debut (and Netflix series), pivots on this edgy concept. The premise is punchy, the satire sharp—but the execution leaves a bit to be desired.
Why I Picked It Up
I was drawn by the premise: a matchmaking agency renting ‘field spouses’ to Korea’s elite. The combination of feminist critique and societal satire sounded fresh—promising an ironic, biting exploration of modern relationships. And the buzz? Impressive: the Times praised its punchy tone, while the Financial Times cited its feminist satire.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
Noh Inji, in her 30s and with multiple contract marriages behind her, takes a job at NM (New Marriage), a secret branch that rents spouses for a year. On paper, it’s perfect: no emotional mess, no paperwork, just brief companionship. But life isn’t that tidy.
When one former “husband”—a high-profile music producer—asks Inji back, past and present collide. A persistent ex (Om Tae‑seong) reappears with problematic intentions. As the company’s darker side emerges, Inji is forced to confront her own motives and a chilling underbelly within the business.
Why It Works (Mostly)
1. A Concept That Keeps You Watching
The “field spouse” arrangement is a clever twist on familiar dystopian themes. It’s smart, satirical, and refreshingly brave. And yes—watching how a masterfully constructed façade slowly unravels is undeniably compelling.
2. Cultural Insight with Feminist Punch
The novel shines when critiquing marriage norms and gender expectations in modern Korea. Inji’s reflections on her stalker ex and her neighbour’s romantic escapades shine a light on deep-rooted societal pressures.
3. Engaging Characters with Layers
From Granny’s vivacious wisdom to the ex-husband’s ominous mystique, The Trunk builds a memorable cast. Their interactions add depth to Inji’s internal crossroads. And let’s be honest, parts of this cast would make prime K-drama material.
Where It Stumbles
1. Pacing That Slows to a Crawl
Despite a thrilling premise, the narrative often feels like it’s stuck in neutral. Aside from the stalking subplot, much of Inji’s year-long contract plays out in routine domesticity. If you’re looking for high-stakes action, this may feel anticlimactic.
2. Plot Threads That Fade Away
Some storylines—like the evolving sexuality subplot and Inji’s family history—introduce intrigue, but aren’t fully explored. A tighter focus could have elevated the emotional stakes.
3. Satire That Doesn’t Always Land
While the concept is bold, the critique can feel surface-level. How deep should the satire go? The Trunk hints at darker themes—corporate conspiracy, commodification of intimacy—but doesn’t fully descend into thriller territory .
You’ll Appreciate This Book If You’re Drawn To…
- Kim Ji‑young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam‑joo – for sharp social critique
- Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata – for societal observation through a restraint-filled lens
Final Thoughts: Smart, but a Line Behind Its Potential
I thought that The Trunk was a stylish, thought-provoking read with genuine moments of insight into modern relationships and gender dynamics. Its premise and social commentary are the book’s strongest cards—but read too slowly, and read too superficially executed, it doesn’t quite reach its dramatic ambitions.
That doesn’t mean it’s not worth your time. The concept alone is a conversation starter. And for anyone curious about feminist satire, Netflix-ready storytelling, or the emotional complexity behind contractual intimacy—that trunk contains something intriguing.
