The smash-hit Netflix series Squid Game catapulted South Korean drama into the global spotlight, but for its creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, the journey was far from glamorous.
In a candid interview with the BBC, Hwang revealed just how grueling the process of creating the first season was—so much so that he lost “eight or nine” teeth during production due to stress.
Despite the physical and emotional toll, Hwang is returning for the highly anticipated second season. His reason? “Money,” he admitted frankly.
“Even though the first series was such a huge global success, honestly, I didn’t make much,” Hwang explained. “Doing the second series will help compensate me for the success of the first one too. And I didn’t fully finish the story.”
Squid Game captivated audiences with its harrowing portrayal of contestants in dire financial straits, competing in deadly children’s games for a life-changing cash prize. Beyond the blood and spectacle, the series is a sharp critique of economic inequality and societal divides.
Hwang shared his perspective on why the show resonates globally: “We’re in an era of us vs. them. Who’s right and who’s wrong? New lines are being drawn.” He views the series as an exploration of not only class struggles but also gender, generational, and political conflicts.
The sophomore season picks up with Seong Gi-hun, also known as Player 456 (played by Lee Jung-jae), returning to the deadly games, this time with a mission to save other contestants. Fans can expect the same intense drama and moral dilemmas that made the first season unforgettable.
Hwang hasn’t yet addressed the dental damage caused by the stress of creating the show but joked about the likelihood of further dental work. “I haven’t seen my dentist yet, but I’ll probably have to pull out a few more very soon,” he quipped.
The highly anticipated second season of Squid Game premieres on December 26 on Netflix. Fans can prepare for more thrills, deeper social commentary, and a story that promises to keep pushing boundaries—just as its creator has, both creatively and physically.
Let’s hope Hwang’s dentist is ready!