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Reporter Chae SungOh of DDaily held an interview to commemorate the anticipation as “Squid Game” prepares to return to screens on December 26, with director Hwang DongHyuk who dives into the process of crafting the much-anticipated second season. With Season 1 breaking records and inspiring countless discussions, the stakes are high—but Hwang emphasizes his commitment to creating a sequel that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining with intense competition and new games.
This article has been translated from DDaily for the purpose of sharing with our audience.
Season 1 was a worldwide success. Why do you think it resonated so deeply, and what was your focus for Season 2?
I’ve been asked this a lot, and while I’ve given many reasons, I often ask myself, “Why was it such a hit?” Looking back, I think the simplest reason is that it was fun. The absurd games and the dynamic character-driven story hooked people.
Beyond entertainment, it struck a chord because it mirrored society’s struggles. It wasn’t just a time-filler; it made people think and talk. For Season 2, my primary goal was the same: to make it so entertaining that people would say, “If this isn’t fun, what is?” Once that’s achieved, layers of meaning naturally emerge.
Hwang DongHyuk Director
🎭 This response reveals Hwang’s unique storytelling philosophy: while many directors may seek to embed profound commentary first, Hwang ensures that entertainment leads the way, with deeper messages following naturally. This prioritization of fun—without sacrificing depth—was a key reason “Squid Game” resonated globally. The mix of gripping games and social reflection offers something for everyone, making it universally relatable.
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The secrecy around the script was intense. Lee JungJae and Lee ByungHun, what do you think the global reaction will be?
With sequels, there’s always pressure for more, but what stood out was maintaining the emotional intensity of Season 1. While filming, I focused on enhancing the elements that made Season 1 special—the raw emotions, unique games, and memorable characters. Fans who loved the first season will definitely enjoy revisiting those aspects in Season 2.
Lee JungJae
Squid Game became a global sensation because it captured universal feelings—fear, hope, and survival. While Season 1 shocked audiences with its unpredictability, Season 2 delves deeper into character-driven narratives. I believe this will resonate just as powerfully, even with some familiarity in the setup.
Lee ByungHun
🎞️ Season 1’s unpredictability was a hallmark of its success, but maintaining that edge in Season 2 is a daunting challenge. By doubling down on the emotional core and exploring character backstories, the creators seem to be banking on deeper storytelling rather than merely raising the stakes of the games. This evolution could shift how fans engage with the series, inviting empathy alongside thrill.
Director Hwang, you’ve mentioned Season 1 took a toll on you, even costing you a few teeth from the stress. How was the process for Season 2?
[Laughs] Yes, my teeth took a hit during Season 1! For Season 2, I wanted to create something fresh yet familiar. We’ve modified the games, added twists, and introduced new characters while retaining the core nostalgia.
Expect moments where you think you know what’s coming—and then, bam, something entirely unexpected happens. These twists, I hope, will make fans demand, “When’s Season 3?”
(As for my teeth… let’s just say the dentist is still on speed dial.)
Hwang DongHyuk Director
⚖️ Hwang’s lighthearted take on his health struggles underscores the immense pressure behind the scenes of global phenomena like “Squid Game”. His aim to balance nostalgia with surprise hints at a careful navigation of fan expectations—a delicate act that could determine whether Season 2 matches or even surpasses the cultural impact of its predecessor.
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Kang HaNeul, how did you react to being cast, and how was the chemistry with your co-stars?
At first, I thought, “Why me?” But once I heard the storyline, I was hooked. Working with such a talented cast made the experience even better. It felt like playing games on set—in a good way!
Kang HaNeul
Same here! It was a no-brainer. The script was too good to pass up, and the collaborative energy on set made every moment enjoyable.
Lee JinWook
💥 Adding actors like Kang HaNeul and Lee JinWook brings fresh dynamics to the show, potentially widening its appeal. Their excitement and camaraderie might translate into compelling on-screen chemistry, especially in a series where relationships often define life-or-death outcomes.
Fans are curious about Park SungHoon’s role as HyunJoo, a rare LGBTQ+ character in a survival game setting. What inspired this character?
We’ve always included marginalized characters—like Ali, the migrant worker in Season 1. For Season 2, I thought about addressing LGBTQ+ issues. HyunJoo represents both strength and vulnerability, making them a standout character. I hope audiences connect with and root for them, just as they did with Ali.
Hwang DongHyuk Director
🏳️🌈 Representation in media has come a long way, and “Squid Game 2” seems poised to contribute meaningfully to this progress. By spotlighting an LGBTQ+ character, the show not only reflects contemporary societal dialogues but also expands its inclusivity. This move could open new doors for discussions around identity in high-stakes settings.
As the countdown to December 26 begins, fans are buzzing with speculation about what Season 2 will bring. With promises of unexpected twists, deeper character arcs, and fresh faces, “Squid Game 2” aims to replicate the magic of its predecessor while pushing boundaries further.
What are your theories?
