The Squid Game sensation
The long-awaited Squid Game Season 3 was released on June 27, 2025. When Squid Game first premiered on Netflix in 2021, no one in Korea could have imagined it would become such a massive global hit. The show quickly gained international attention, but Korean reactions have changed noticeably over the course of its three seasons.
Interestingly, the director of Squid Game, Hwang Dong-hyuk, was already well-known in Korea for his hit film “Miss Granny”. However, when I first watched Squid Game, I had no idea it was directed by him. The tone, style, and concept were so different from his previous works. Once I realized it was his project, though, I thought, “Of course, it’s Hwang Dong-hyuk.” That twist in genre only made me appreciate his versatility even more.
As someone who grew up playing some of the traditional games featured in the series, I felt a strong connection to the show. In this post, I’ll share how Korean viewers have responded to Squid Game from Season 1 to Season 3. You might find the local perspective quite different from the global one.
Squid Game Season 1 – Unexpected Global Success
For most Koreans, Squid Game Season 1 came out of nowhere. Nobody predicted the massive global reaction, especially from Western audiences. The series’ use of traditional Korean children’s games like “Mugunghwa Flower Has Bloomed” (Red Light, Green Light) felt both nostalgic and original. It was fresh, thrilling, and culturally unique.
In Korea, people appreciated how the show blended social commentary with familiar visuals. Many praised the director for turning something so ordinary into a deadly and symbolic experience. Overall, Squid Game Season 1 received very positive reviews in Korea, with viewers proud to see Korean content going viral around the world.
Squid Game Season 2 – High Expectations, Mixed Feelings
The success of the first season naturally raised expectations for the second. When Squid Game Season 2 was announced, Korean audiences were excited but also cautious. Unfortunately, many felt that Season 2 didn’t quite meet the high standards set by Season 1.
One common criticism was the lack of a strong, independent storyline. It felt like Season 2 existed only to set up Season 3, rather than to tell a compelling story on its own. Some characters were underdeveloped, and the tension that made Season 1 so addictive was missing. While a few viewers found it interesting, the majority seemed disappointed.
Squid Game Season 3 – Hopes vs. Disappointments
By the time Squid Game Season 3 was released, many Koreans already had low expectations. Still, some hoped it would redeem the missteps of Season 2. The trailers were dramatic, the cast was strong, and the early buzz was hopeful. But once again, disappointment followed.
People felt that the story was too focused on explaining the world of Squid Game, rather than showing exciting game sequences or emotional moments. Some said it tried too hard to be “deep” and forgot to entertain. After finishing Season 3, many Koreans said they felt like they were watching a long teaser rather than a full story.
What’s Next?
Until I watched Squid Game, the only Korean film that truly felt like a global masterpiece to me was Oldboy by director Park Chan-wook. Of course, many Korean dramas and films have gained international popularity over the years, but Oldboy was the only one that left a deep personal impact on me.
However, Squid Game created a global phenomenon that arguably surpassed even Oldboy in terms of cultural reach. Although I felt the storytelling became weaker with each new season, there’s still a loyal fan base, and many viewers continue to support the direction the story is taking.
After watching Season 3, though, it feels like the Squid Game journey has come to an end. Still, I believe this isn’t the end for Korean content. I’m confident that we’ll see another series, perhaps something even more powerful, that will go beyond Squid Game and take the world by storm once again.
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