TO THE MOON is centered around three young women in their thirties working mundane jobs at a snack manufacturer. Despite coming from different departments, they bond over their similar backgrounds of humble origins, being considered average performers, and lacking prestigious positions.The story follows Eun-sang, the eldest of the group, who constantly seeks ways to earn extra money but faces trouble for her office mini mart. Jisong, the youngest, dreams of a perfect romance with her Taiwanese boyfriend and spends her low salary on trips to Taipei. The narrator, Dahae, works in the Snacks department and endures an incompetent team leader while struggling to support her injured mother and find a better apartment.During a lunch gathering, Eun-sang excitedly reveals her discovery of Ethereum, a cryptocurrency rivaling Bitcoin. She invests her savings, hoping to make enough money to quit her job. Intrigued, Dahae opens an account, while Jisong remains skeptical. As the Ethereum price fluctuates, Dahae and Eun-sang’s friendship evolves, causing tension with Jisong. Despite threats of breaking up, Dahae and Eun-sang desperately want to share their newfound wealth with Jisong.And then, China outlaws crypto ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings), and the market crashes......The title, TO THE MOON, symbolizes Eun-sang’s belief that they should hold on until Ethereum’s price skyrockets. Set in modern Seoul, the novel explores class divisions, gender inequality, and unattainable wealth. It unfolds with a thrilling pace akin to a heist movie, delving into the complexities of female friendship and materialistic desires. Jang aims to create a bittersweet experience, akin to consuming excessive sugar—initially sweet, but with an aftertaste that lacks pleasantness.
