Context:

The Netflix series 'Squid Game' concluded its third and final season, sparking mixed reactions among South Korean viewers who were disappointed by the lack of justice for beloved characters. The show's creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, intended to mirror contemporary societal issues like capitalism and inequality, reflecting a darker side of South Korean society beyond the polished image of K-pop. This portrayal resonated with audiences as it highlighted the realities of financial risks and societal competition. The global success of the series has significantly contributed to the international interest in Korean cultural exports, leading to a substantial investment by Netflix in Korean content. Despite the show's closure, its impact on global media consumption and the perception of South Korean culture is profound and lasting.

Dive Deeper:

• The final season of 'Squid Game' left many South Korean viewers dissatisfied as the narrative failed to deliver justice for favorite characters, with the protagonists meeting grim fates while the antagonists thrived.

• Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk crafted the series to reflect harsh realities of modern society, such as extreme capitalism and inequality, offering a stark contrast to the glitzy image of South Korea often portrayed through K-pop.

• Characters in the series were designed to mirror real societal issues, featuring individuals like a cryptocurrency scammer and a struggling pregnant woman, thus resonating with viewers who see these struggles in their own lives.

• The finale was marked by a fan event in Seoul, showcasing a parade and activities themed around the series, indicating the cultural imprint 'Squid Game' has made on South Korean society.

• Globally, 'Squid Game' has expanded the appetite for non-English series, prompting Netflix to invest $2.5 billion in Korean content, underscoring the show's role in elevating K-content on the world stage.

• Minyoung Kim of Netflix noted that the series opened doors for international audiences to embrace diverse content, enhancing the global reach of Korean media.

• Professor Gyu Tag Lee highlighted how the series taps into the competitive nature of South Korean society, where achieving success often involves outmaneuvering others, a theme that 'Squid Game' vividly portrays.