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How Squid Game Became Netflix's Biggest Hit Ever



Squid Game: The Ultimate Survival Drama on Netflix




If you are looking for a binge-worthy show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than Squid Game, the latest hit from South Korea that has taken the world by storm. Squid Game is a survival drama that follows a group of cash-strapped individuals who participate in a mysterious competition involving children's games, with a deadly twist. Here is everything you need to know about this addictive series, from its plot and characters to its popularity and future.




squıd game



What is Squid Game?




Squid Game is a South Korean television series created by Hwang Dong-hyuk for Netflix. It premiered on September 17, 2021, and consists of nine episodes. It is one of the most watched shows on Netflix, reaching the number one spot in over 90 countries. It has also received critical acclaim for its story, performances, direction, and production values.


The plot




The story revolves around 456 players who are invited to join a mysterious game that promises a prize of 45.6 billion won (about 38 million US dollars) to the winner. The players are all in deep debt or facing various troubles in their lives, and see the game as a chance to escape their problems. However, they soon discover that the game is not what it seems, as they have to play a series of children's games with deadly consequences for losing. The games are overseen by masked staff and a mysterious front man, who enforce the rules and eliminate the losers. As the players struggle to survive and win the money, they also uncover the secrets behind the game and its purpose.


The characters




The main character of Squid Game is Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae), a divorced and unemployed father who is in debt to loan sharks and estranged from his family. He is a kind-hearted but naive man who decides to join the game after being approached by a well-dressed stranger. He is assigned the number 456, the last player in the game.


Other important characters include:


  • Cho Sang-woo (played by Park Hae-soo), Gi-hun's childhood friend and former classmate who was a successful businessman but became wanted for fraud. He is smart and ambitious, but also selfish and ruthless. He is number 218 in the game.



  • Kang Sae-byeok (played by HoYeon Jung), a North Korean defector who joined the game to find money for her brother's surgery and her mother's escape. She is brave and resourceful, but also aloof and distrustful. She is number 67 in the game.



  • Oh Il-nam (played by O Yeong-su), an elderly man who suffers from a brain tumor and joined the game for fun. He is cheerful and friendly, but also cunning and mysterious. He is number 001 in the game, the first player.



  • Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), a Pakistani immigrant worker who joined the game to pay off his employer's debt and support his family. He is loyal and hardworking, but also naive and gullible. He is number 199 in the game.



  • Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), a violent and aggressive gangster who joined the game to escape from his enemies. He is cruel and greedy, but also cowardly and opportunistic. He is number 101 in the game.



The games




The games that the players have to play are based on popular The games that the players have to play are based on popular children's games in South Korea, some of which have different names and variations in other countries. The games are:


  • Red Light, Green Light: A game where one person (the traffic light) stands with their back to a line of others. When their back is turned, the other players move toward them during the green light and must stop when the traffic light spins around on a red light. In Squid Game, the traffic light is a giant robot doll that sings "Mugunghwa flower has blossomed", referring to Korea's national flower. Anyone who moves during the red light is shot by snipers.



  • Dalgona challenge: A game where the players have to cut out a shape (circle, triangle, star, or umbrella) from a flat candy made of melted sugar and baking soda, without breaking the shape. The candy is called dalgona or ppopgi, and was a popular street snack in Korea in the 1950s and 1960s. The vendors would offer a free bonus if the children could pull out the shape without breaking it.



  • Tug of war: A game where two teams pull on opposite ends of a rope, trying to drag the other team over a line or into a pit. In Squid Game, the teams consist of 10 players each, and the losing team falls from a high platform to their death.



  • Marbles: A game where the players pair up and play various games with marbles, such as guessing the number of marbles in one's hand, throwing marbles into a hole, or flicking marbles at each other. In Squid Game, each player starts with 10 marbles, and the goal is to take all of the opponent's marbles within 10 minutes. The losing player is killed.



  • Glass stepping stones: A game where the players have to cross a bridge made of 18 pairs of glass panels, each pair numbered from 1 to 16. One panel in each pair is tempered glass that can support the weight of two people, while the other is normal glass that will shatter under pressure. The players have to choose which panel to step on based on their assigned number, and avoid falling to their death.



  • Squid game: A game where two teams (offense and defense) play within a squid-shaped board drawn on the ground. The offense team tries to reach the squid's head and tap it with their foot, while the defense team tries to stop them. The offense team can only hop on one foot outside the board, but can use both feet inside. The defense team can use both feet anywhere. In Squid Game, only two players remain for this final game, and they can use any means to eliminate each other.



Why is Squid Game so popular?




Squid Game has become a global phenomenon, breaking records and generating buzz on social media. But what makes it so appealing to audiences around the world? Here are some possible reasons:


The social commentary




Squid Game tackles some of the most pressing issues of our time, such as poverty, inequality, debt, corruption, violence, and exploitation. It shows how people are driven to desperation by an unfair and oppressive system that favors the rich and powerful over the poor and vulnerable. It also exposes how people can lose their humanity and morality when faced with life-or-death situations. Squid Game reflects the harsh realities and frustrations that many people face in their daily lives, especially in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic that has worsened the economic and social conditions for many.


The suspense and thrill




Squid Game keeps viewers hooked with its unpredictable and gripping plot that constantly surprises and shocks them. The show creates a sense of tension and dread as the viewers wonder who will survive and who will die in each game. The show also mixes elements of mystery and horror as it reveals the secrets behind the game and its organizers. Squid Game appeals to viewers who enjoy thrillers and dramas that challenge their emotions and expectations.


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Squid game Kim Joo-ryoung role and character


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Squid game honeycomb candy making tutorial


Squid game tug of war strategy and tips


Squid game marbles rules and variations


Squid game glass bridge physics and mechanics


Squid game squid shape explanation and history


Squid game VIPs identity and purpose


Squid game front man mask design and symbolism


Squid game workers outfit and function


Squid game pink jumpsuits meaning and origin


Squid game numbered tracksuits significance and color code


Squid game invitation card design and message


The cultural appeal




Squid Game showcases various aspects of Korean culture that fascinate and intrigue viewers from different backgrounds. The show features traditional folk games that evoke nostalgia and curiosity among viewers who may have played similar games in their childhood or want to learn more about them. The show also incorporates Korean music, food, language, humor, and values that enrich the story and characters. Squid Game demonstrates how Korean content can transcend borders and connect with global audiences.


How to watch Squid Game?




If you are interested in watching Squid Game, here are some tips on how to access and enjoy it:


Streaming options




Streaming options


Squid Game is available exclusively on Netflix, the world's leading streaming service. You can watch it on any device that supports Netflix, such as smart TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. You can also download the episodes to watch offline on your mobile device. To watch Squid Game, you need a Netflix subscription, which costs between $8.99 and $17.99 per month in the US, depending on the plan you choose. You can also sign up for a free trial if you are a new user.


Language and subtitles




Squid Game is originally in Korean, but you can choose to watch it in different languages depending on your preference and availability. Netflix offers dubbed versions of Squid Game in English, Spanish, French, German, and Hindi, among others. You can also choose to watch it with subtitles in various languages, including English, Spanish, French, Arabic, Chinese, and more. You can change the language and subtitle settings on your Netflix account or on the playback screen.


Ratings and warnings




Squid Game is rated TV-MA in the US, which means it is intended for mature audiences only. It contains graphic violence, gore, profanity, nudity, sexual content, and drug use. It may not be suitable for children or sensitive viewers. Squid Game also has a warning at the beginning of each episode that informs viewers of the potentially disturbing scenes and themes. If you are uncomfortable with any of the content in Squid Game, you may want to skip or avoid watching it.


What to expect from Squid Game season 2?




Squid Game has not been officially renewed for a second season yet, but given its popularity and success, it is very likely that Netflix will greenlight it soon. The creator of Squid Game, Hwang Dong-hyuk, has also expressed his interest and willingness to continue the story. Here are some of the things that fans can expect from Squid Game season 2:


The cliffhanger ending




The first season of Squid Game ended with a major cliffhanger that left viewers wondering what will happen next. The final episode revealed that Oh Il-nam, the elderly man who played as number 001, was actually the mastermind behind the game. He explained that he created the game out of boredom and curiosity, and that he wanted to see if people could still have fun and be honest in a hopeless situation. He also claimed that he was dying of a brain tumor and wanted to play one last game with Gi-hun before he died.


Gi-hun was shocked and disgusted by Il-nam's revelation, and refused to play with him. He left him alone in his hospital bed, and went to claim his prize money from an ATM. However, he discovered that he had no desire to spend the money or enjoy his life after what he had been through. He also learned that Sae-byeok had died in the final game against him, leaving her brother an orphan. He decided to adopt him and take care of him.


A year later, Gi-hun was still depressed and traumatized by his experience in the game. He had not touched his money or contacted his family or friends. He received a card from an unknown sender that invited him to meet at a cafe. He went there and found a phone booth that connected him to the front man of the game. The front man told him that he had won the game fair and square, and that he should enjoy his life and forget about the game. He also warned him not to interfere with their business or try to expose them.


Gi-hun was angry and defiant, and vowed to stop them from harming more people. He noticed a man in a suit who was approaching people with red envelopes similar to the ones he received before joining the game. He followed him to the airport and tried to stop him from recruiting more players. He also received a call from Il-nam's phone number, but did not answer it.


The last scene showed Gi-hun with red hair boarding a plane to Los Angeles, where his daughter lived with her stepfather. However, he changed his mind at the last minute and got off the plane. He decided to stay in Korea and fight against the game organizers.


The fan theories




Squid Game has sparked many fan theories and speculations about its plot and characters. Some of the most popular ones are:


  • Gi-hun's daughter is actually Il-nam's granddaughter: Some fans have noticed that Gi-hun's daughter has a similar birthmark on her face as Il-nam's son did in a photo shown in episode 6. They have suggested that Il Gi-hun's daughter is actually Il-nam's granddaughter: Some fans have noticed that Gi-hun's daughter has a similar birthmark on her face as Il-nam's son did in a photo shown in episode 6. They have suggested that Il-nam's son was Gi-hun's wife's first husband, and that he died in a car accident. They have also speculated that Il-nam knew about Gi-hun and his daughter, and that he orchestrated the game to test him and reunite with his granddaughter.



  • The front man is Gi-hun's brother: Some fans have theorized that the front man, the masked leader of the game staff, is actually Gi-hun's long-lost brother. They have pointed out that Gi-hun mentioned that his brother ran away from home when he was young, and that he never heard from him again. They have also noted that the front man seemed to have a personal interest in Gi-hun, and that he spared his life several times during the game.



  • The game is a simulation or a dream: Some fans have wondered if the game is actually real, or if it is a simulation or a dream. They have argued that some of the scenes and events in the game are too unrealistic or illogical, such as the robot doll, the glass bridge, and the squid game. They have also suggested that some of the characters and symbols in the game are related to Gi-hun's subconscious or memories, such as the red envelope, the horse statue, and the number 456.



The official confirmation




As of now, there is no official confirmation from Netflix or Hwang Dong-hyuk about Squid Game season 2. However, Hwang Dong-hyuk has hinted that he has some ideas for a possible continuation of the story. In an interview with Variety, he said: "Theres been so much pressure, so much demand, and so much love for a second season. So I almost feel like you leave us no choice. But I will say there is nothing set in stone yet."


He also added: "I do have an idea in mind of what to do for season 2. I wanted to focus on some of the supporting characters and their stories. Of course its not something that I can do on my own. It would require conversations with Netflix and collaboration with other writers."


Therefore, fans can hope that Squid Game season 2 will be announced soon, and that it will deliver more twists and turns in the thrilling saga of survival and morality.


Conclusion




Squid Game is a captivating and compelling series that explores the dark side of human nature and society through a deadly game of childhood nostalgia. It has become one of the most popular and acclaimed shows on Netflix, attracting millions of viewers from different countries and cultures. It has also sparked many discussions and debates about its themes, characters, and plot. Whether you are a fan or a newcomer, Squid Game is a show that you should not miss.


FAQs




  • Q: What does Squid Game mean?



  • A: Squid Game is the name of the final game in the series, as well as the title of the show. It is based on a Korean street game called "ojingeo game" or "squid game", where two teams play within a squid-shaped board drawn on the ground. The name comes from the shape of the board, which resembles a squid with its head, body, and tentacles.



  • Q: How many episodes are there in Squid Game?



  • A: There are nine episodes in Squid Game, each ranging from 47 to 63 minutes in length. The titles of the episodes are:



  • Red Light, Green Light



  • Hell



  • The Man with the Umbrella



  • Stick to the Team



  • A Fair World



  • Gganbu



  • VIPs



  • Front Man



  • One Lucky Day



  • Q: Who are the VIPs in Squid Game?



  • A: The VIPs are a group of wealthy and powerful individuals who watch and bet on the games as spectators. They wear animal masks to conceal their identities, and speak English with various accents. They are implied to be from different countries and backgrounds, and to have connections to the game organizers.



  • Q: What is the significance of number 456 in Squid Game?



  • A: Number 456 is Gi-hun's assigned number in the game, as well as his bank account number where he receives his prize money. It is also the A: Number 456 is Gi-hun's assigned number in the game, as well as his bank account number where he receives his prize money. It is also the total number of players who joined the game, and the amount of money (in millions of won) that each player contributed to the prize pool. Number 456 symbolizes Gi-hun's status as the last and least likely player to win the game, as well as his transformation from a loser to a winner.



  • Q: Is Squid Game based on a true story?



  • A: No, Squid Game is not based on a true story. It is a fictional and original story created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, who was inspired by various sources, such as manga, movies, books, and his own experiences. However, Squid Game does reflect some of the real issues and challenges that many people face in modern society, such as debt, inequality, and violence.



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