Netflix has officially released the much-anticipated second season of "Squid Game" on December 26, 2023. Following the monumental success of its first season, which captivated audiences worldwide, expectations were at an all-time high.
The original season made history with its staggering viewership of 142 million people within just the first month of airing, leading to intense anticipation for the second installment. It’s easy to see why Netflix decided to invest heavily—this season was reportedly produced with a budget of $100 million, compared to the first season’s $20 million.
Upon its release, the market reacted differently than expected. Stocks related to South Korean entertainment companies linked to the series reported substantial declines. For example, shares of Artist United Inc., led by "Squid Game" star Lee Jung-jae, dropped nearly 30%. Similarly, Wysiwyg Studios and Dexter Studios saw declines of 25% and 24%, respectively. Such reactions starkly contrasted with the initial stock boosts following the first season’s launch.
The new season received mixed reviews, earning 85% approval from critics and just 65% from audience members on Rotten Tomatoes. With critiques praising the array of surprises, Lee Jung-jae's return as Seong Gi-hun marked the continuation of this gripping narrative. Fans such as Florian expressed their excitement, stating, "We were excited for the second season, and it did not disappoint. It critiques the flaws of society." Nevertheless, the series was also critiqued for its narrative pacing and thematic depth.
Returning to the arena, Seong Gi-hun dives back to assassinate the organization behind the deadly games, now with more formidable challenges. New characters spice up the plot, including Choi Su-bong, portrayed by T.O.P, notorious due to his past scandals. His character is described as vibrant and dangerously psychopathic, determined to seize the prize at any cost.
While familiar elements from the first season remain, the narrative smartly introduces unexpected twists, ensuring audiences don’t feel repetitive. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk stresses the importance of keeping viewers engaged: “The second season holds plenty of surprises and twists to keep viewers engaged.”
Looking forward, the third season, expected to finalize Seong Gi-hun's arc, has already been filmed, with Lee Jung-jae expressing eagerness to see the post-production results: "I finished shooting season 3, but it’s still in post-production, and I’m eager to see it." Hwang added dimensions to the story's progression, stating, “I initially planned for just the second season, but as I wrote, I discovered so much more to tell.”
Social dynamics also play heavily in the series, particularly surrounding LGBTQ+ representation, with Hwang addressing the casting of Park Sung-hoon as Cho Hyun-ju. Discussing the casting choices, he noted, "There are very few openly LGBTQ+ actors in Korea, making it difficult to find authentic casting.” This reflection highlights societal issues and the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Overall, the narrative intricacies and character development maintain the gripping tension and thematic depth viewers have come to expect. Fans have already begun wondering about future installments, as the series has not only captured imaginations but also challenged social norms.
With the ambitious plans Netflix holds for the "Squid Game" franchise, including potential spin-offs—one being helmed by David Fincher—the stakes are higher than ever. Hwang Dong-hyuk has teased audience engagement with this latest season and the excitement for what’s to come. All eyes will be on Netflix as it prepares to launch the next chapter of this harrowing saga.
