“The Trunk” is a mystery drama centered around a suspicious trunk found floating on a lake, which reveals the secrets and emotional waves that surround it. A key element of the plot is NM, a company that offers temporary marital services, which include optional sexual intercourse as part of the contract. This has led many viewers to respond with harsh criticism, asking, “If this isn’t prostitution, what is?”
Although contractual marriage has been a recurring theme in many dramas, “The Trunk” stands out for including explicit references to sexual relationships and direct dialogue such as “I want to sleep with you.”
This sparked widespread reaction from viewers. Additionally, characters other than protagonists Han Jeong-won (played by Gong Yoo) and No In-ji (played by Seo Hyun-jin) also engage in similar contractual arrangements, along with explicit scenes. Some have even expressed concern about discriminatory depictions of nudity.
Despite the controversy, “Il Tronco” is based on a well-known novel with the same themes. The actors had access to the script before deciding to join the production. Instead of acknowledging potential problems, they defended the situation, claiming that it did not arouse discomfort.
In a previous interview, Gong Yoo expressed his surprise at the criticism, saying: “Personally I don’t like formalities, but seeing the term related to prostitution in the headlines shocked me. It was disturbing that things had reached this point. While I expected polarized opinions, I see it as one perspective among many. With the simultaneous release in 190 countries, different opinions were expected. Only in Korea are opinions divided. While negative perspectives are valid, they don’t represent everyone. If everyone perceived it negatively, it would really be a problem. But many see it differently and I interpret this as a variety of perspectives.”
Furthermore, Seo Hyun-jin shared a similar sentiment. Rather than focus on the controversial aspects of his character’s job, he emphasized his connection to the character’s personality.
“I chose this script because I was attracted to In-ji’s character. His profession did not cause me much discomfort because his situation is anything but ordinary. To maintain his home while waiting five years, his profession seemed necessary in this parallel reality. It wasn’t about romanticizing his work but about portraying his unique circumstances,” he said.
The actress also further explained her interpretation of her character’s duality, stating, “We all have a social face and a private self. In-ji’s work represents her public identity, while closing her front door symbolizes her private world. These contrasts helped shape my approach to the role. Preparing for this interview also clarified my thoughts. The drama sparked ongoing reflection, making it an engaging and rewarding project.”
Despite the discomfort the series has caused in some viewers, the lead actors appear unperturbed, interpreting the work through a lens detached from the controversy. This disconnect may shed light on the lukewarm reception and polarizing views surrounding “The Trunk,” which appears to be quietly losing momentum amid the turmoil.
Source: Nate
