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Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind the global phenomenon Squid Game, has opened up about the challenges and personal costs of creating the show, revealing that the production took a significant physical toll on him. During an interview with BBC, he shared that he lost “eight or nine” teeth while working on the first season of the series. Despite the immense success and popularity of the show, Hwang admitted that he did not financially benefit as much as one might expect. “Even though the first series was such a huge global success, honestly I didn’t make much,” he said. His return for the second season was largely motivated by the need for financial compensation, as well as his desire to complete the story he started. Hwang explained that the first season only scratched the surface of the narrative, and he felt compelled to continue telling the story he had envisioned.
The central theme of Squid Game revolves around the exploitation of individuals facing extreme financial hardship who are lured into participating in deadly games for the promise of a life-changing cash prize. The show, which has resonated with audiences worldwide, reflects the harsh realities of modern society, including issues of economic inequality, class struggles, and the widening divides between different groups. Hwang described the current global climate as one where “new lines are being drawn” in terms of divisions within society, whether that be based on class, gender, age, or political affiliation. The show’s exploration of these societal tensions has sparked conversations on the increasing polarization seen in many parts of the world today. Hwang noted that Squid Game gives a dark but necessary reflection of how these issues play out in both fictional and real-world contexts.
With the second season of Squid Game set to premiere on December 26, 2024, fans can expect to see Seong Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, return to the game to try and save others from the deadly competition. Despite the overwhelming success of the first season, the pressure on Hwang to outdo himself with the next chapter remains intense, and it’s clear that the stress of creating the series has not subsided. Hwang, who humorously mentioned the possibility of needing more dental work, acknowledged the ongoing personal sacrifices that come with bringing Squid Game back to the screen. While the first season explored the individual struggles of its characters, the second season is expected to dive deeper into the emotional and physical toll the games have on the players and those involved in orchestrating them. As Hwang continues to navigate the pressure of creating the next season, it remains clear that his commitment to telling the story and completing the narrative arc is a driving force behind his return.
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