Squid Game: A Netflix Phenomenon Squid Game, a South Korean dystopian thriller, captivated global audiences upon its release in September 2021. Created, written, and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, the series depicts a brutal competition where 456 financially desperate individuals risk their lives in deadly children's games for a ₩45.6 billion prize. The title references the Korean children's game "ojingeo" (squid). The series, spearheaded by Lee Jung-jae as protagonist Seong Gi-hun, gained international acclaim and became Netflix's most-watched series. Hwang's inspiration stemmed from personal economic struggles and observations of South Korea's class disparity and capitalist system. Despite writing the script in 2009, securing funding proved challenging until Netflix's interest in expanding foreign programming. The show's success garnered numerous awards, including six Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Production for the second season commenced in July 2023 and concluded its run on December 26, 2024. Simultaneous filming of the third and final season is scheduled for release on June 27, 2025. Squid Game's impact extends beyond entertainment, prompting discussions on social inequality and the dark side of capitalism.