The highly anticipated ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 is gearing up for its 2024 release, raising questions about its potential to achieve worldwide acclaim once again despite various controversies. The Netflix original series, which debuted in 2021, revolves around participants who risk their lives in extreme games for a chance to win ₩45.6 billion. The first season garnered international fame, with Lee Jung-jae winning Best Actor and director Hwang Dong-hyuk taking home the Best Director award at the 74th Emmy Awards.
Recently, teaser videos and still cuts for Season 2 have been released, preparing to meet audiences soon. The cast includes notable actors such as Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Im Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, and many others. In the released teaser, Lee Jung-jae, with his hair dyed red, receives a call warning, “You’ll regret the choice you made,” to which he responds, “I’ll find you, no matter what it takes,” hinting at a revenge plot and heightening anticipation.
Cast includes Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, and TOP (Choi Seung-hyun).
However, ‘Squid Game 2’ has been mired in controversies even before its details were officially released. The participation of TOP (Choi Seung-hyun), who was previously convicted of marijuana use, has sparked debate. TOP, who received a suspended prison sentence in 2017 for marijuana use and hinted at retirement from the entertainment industry, has raised eyebrows with his return in ‘Squid Game’ as a leading role in K-content. Speculations about casting influences due to his connection with Lee Jung-jae have also surfaced.
Addressing these concerns, Lee Jung-jae’s side stated, “The casting of the work is the authority of the director and the production company. Actor Lee Jung-jae knows better than anyone that many actors are auditioning and working hard to appear in ‘Squid Game 2’.” Netflix also emphasized, “Casting decisions for Netflix productions are made by creators like the director, writer, and production company based on creative intent. Netflix respects these decisions.”
‘Squid Game’ Season 2 is set to premiere in 2024 amid controversies.
Adding to the controversy, allegations of mistreatment by the filming staff have emerged. A post on an online community last July expressed discomfort with a staff member’s rude behavior at Incheon Airport. The ‘Squid Game 2’ team responded by apologizing for any inconvenience caused and promising to be more cautious in the future.
As ‘Squid Game 2’ locks in its 2024 release amidst high expectations and ongoing issues, it remains to be seen whether it can replicate its global success. The production team faces the challenge of addressing these controversies while delivering a season that lives up to the legacy of the original.
