Season two of the global hit Squid Game premieres this December, following contestants caught in a high-stakes game for survival and a massive cash prize.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, creator of Netflix’s record-breaking series, revealed that he lost nine teeth during the filming due to the immense stress. Returning to the screen is fan-favorite character Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, alongside an entirely new group of contestants.
The Financial Strain Behind Squid Game
Hwang spent nearly a decade seeking support for Squid Game, taking on substantial loans to support his family before Netflix stepped in. Despite the show’s success, Netflix initially provided only modest funding for the project.
Netflix has invested billions into the South Korean entertainment industry in recent years, bringing unprecedented global recognition. However, local creators have expressed frustration, claiming that they’re pressured to sign contracts forfeiting their rights to royalties and future profits.
“In Korea, being a film director is just a job title, not a viable career,” said Oh Ki-hwan, Vice President of the Korean Film Directors’ Association, noting that some directors must work part-time jobs in warehouses or as taxi drivers to make ends meet.
