Netflix’s hit Korean drama series Squid Game has captured the attention of audiences worldwide.
The creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, is currently filming the second season of the dystopian thriller, which follows a group of contestants competing in deadly children’s games for a huge cash prize.
Despite the success of the first season, Hwang admits that the production was incredibly stressful and even resulted in him losing eight or nine teeth. When asked why he decided to move forward with a second season despite the challenges, he simply replied, “Money.”
The first season of Squid Game became Netflix’s most successful show to date, shining a spotlight on South Korea’s television industry and sparking conversations about wealth inequality.
However, with most characters meeting their demise in the first season, Hwang had to start fresh with a new cast and set of games for the second season.
As Hwang delves deeper into the story of Squid Game, he explores themes of tribalism and conflict in an ever-changing world. The upcoming season will see more factionalism and fights among the contestants, reflecting the director’s view on the dangers of forcing people to pick sides.
The show’s lead actor, Lee Jung-jae, reveals that his character, Gi-hun, will return to the game with a new mission to save the contestants. The dynamics of the game have also shifted, with players now forced to choose between ending the contest early or risking their lives by continuing to play.
Despite the violent and shocking nature of Squid Game, Hwang’s storytelling is deliberate and thought-provoking. He uses the platform to highlight pressing issues in society and provoke viewers to think about the world around them.
The success of Squid Game has also brought attention to the challenges faced by creators in the film and television industry, especially when working with streaming platforms like Netflix.
Hwang’s struggle to receive fair compensation for his work has sparked a larger conversation about creators’ rights and the need for a more equitable system.
