In a candid conversation on set, Hwang Dong-hyuk, the visionary mind behind Netflix's Squid Game, reveals the unexpected toll that shooting the series has taken on him. Having been the centerpiece of global attention since its release in 2021, the show skyrocketed to fame, and with it, immense expectations for the follow-up season. Hwang, who humorously corrects earlier reports of losing six teeth to a staggering eight or nine, underscores the challenges of returning to the intense world he created.
The second season, which promises more high-stakes scenarios where debt-ridden contestants battle for a substantial cash reward through deadly children’s games, was initially not guaranteed. “I swore I wouldn’t do it,” he admits, describing the overwhelming stress that came with the first season. A significant motivator for revisiting the series was financial stability; despite the series’ enormous success, Hwang revealed he saw little from the profits. “Money,” he states plainly when asked what prompted his change of heart, indicating that the second season would provide much-needed financial compensation.
The show transitioned South Korean dramas into the international spotlight, tackling pressing themes of social disparity and the human condition. However, with nearly every character eliminated in the first season, Hwang faces the daunting task of building a new premise amid soaring audience expectations. “The stress I feel now is much greater,” he confesses.
Hwang's increasing pessimism about the global landscape, citing ongoing wars, climate crises, and systemic inequalities, has inspired darker themes in the follow-up series. He elaborates, “New lines are being drawn. We’re in an era of us vs them,” capturing the essence of the contemporary conflicts that he hopes to portray. In the new season, the previous winner, Gi-hun, returns with a new mission: to dismantle the game and protect contestants.
The set, characterized by vibrant visuals juxtaposed with sinister undertones, features a divided dormitory floor representing stark choices for contestants—a reflection of the growing factionalism in the world today. This narrative twist illustrates Hwang’s intent to comment on the dangers of divisive politics and societal fragmentation.
Fans can expect deeper explorations into the motivation of the enigmatic Front Man, unveiling facets of his backstory. While the violence in the show has sparked varying reactions, Hwang emphasizes that each act of brutality reflects thoughtful considerations regarding humanity's capability to navigate its challenges.
As Squid Game continues to resonate with audiences, industry conversations about creator compensation intensify. Hwang notes the struggles faced by filmmakers, particularly in South Korea, where outdated copyright laws impact earnings. Creators like Park Hae-young express apprehension towards investing creatively without fair recognition. The collective voice of industry professionals is pushing for change to rectify compensation injustices.
As production wraps, Hwang openly acknowledges his continued dental woes but maintains hope. With the second season set to premiere on December 26, 2024, he remains focused on sparking meaningful discussions through his art, hoping that his experiences pave the way for necessary shifts in the industry.
