Tag: Squid Game

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Squid Game Season 2 Premier Date Announced

On August 1, Director, Writer, and Executive Producer Hwang Dong Hyuk announced the release of Squid Game Season 2. The highly-anticipated Netflix hit series will premiere on December 26 of this year. This announcement came via a letter and included exciting news about a third season set to arrive in 2025.

The highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2 is set to return on December 26, with exciting new developments

“Squid Game” follows the gripping story of a mysterious survival game with a grand prize of 45.6 billion won (approximately $33 million). Season 2 will continue the journey of Seong Gi Hun, played by Lee Jung Jae. The last frame of the previous season’s finale shows him deciding whether to pursue the deadly game or not.

The new teaser released by Netflix features Seong Gi Hun, the sole surviving contestant from Season 1, donning the iconic green tracksuit once more. Fans are eager to discover why he has re-entered the game and what new challenges await him.

The teaser also introduces the return of key characters and some intriguing new faces. Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and Wi Ha Joon, will reprise their roles. The second season shows newcomers such as Im Siwan, Kang Ha Neul, Park Gyu Young, Jo Yu Ri, Won Ji An, Park Sung Hoon, Yang Dong Geun, T.O.P, Lee Jin Wook, David Lee, Noh Jae Won, Kang Ae Sim, and Oh Dal Soo.

In the teaser, the frontman poses a chilling question, “It’s been three years. Do you want to play again?” This line, coupled with the ominous statement, “The real game begins,” has fans buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming season.

As “Squid Game” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the return of this thrilling series promises more intense drama. Season 2 is set to deepen the mystery and challenge the characters in new and unforeseen ways.

Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches, and prepare for another heart-pounding adventure in the world of “Squid Game.”

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Netflix CEO Teases ‘Mindblowing’ Second Season of ‘Squid Game’

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently made waves with his pronouncement about Squid Game season two. He stated it will “blow your mind.” This came after Sarandos’ visit to the show’s set in South Korea.

In a column on Netflix’s website, he wrote, “I couldn’t visit Korea without experiencing the production of one of our most anticipated shows of 2024—the second season of Squid Game. While I can’t share any spoilers, I can say the new games will blow your mind, and I was thrilled by the scale of the sets. Director Hwang’s vision is such a powerful example of how Korean—and non-English titles—can be locally authentic while finding new international audiences on Netflix.”

He praised the show’s director again at a press conference in Seoul. “We’re really excited about Mr. Hwang’s ability to push storytelling to new limits, more dynamic sets and more mind-blowing storylines that are going to thrill the entire world,” Sarandos said.

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Significant meetings

Sarandos’s trip was packed with significant meetings, including visits to the Seoul offices of Eyeline Studios and Scanline VFX. He also had productive discussions with Squid Game director Hwang Dong-hyuk, lead actor Lee Jung-jae, and President Yoon Suk Yeol.

“It was my honor to meet President Yoon, together with Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae, to reaffirm our commitment to the industry and to the next generation of Korean creatives,” Sarandos remarked. “We are investing significantly in Korea, and believe that working with best-in-class local industry partners is only the beginning.”

The commitment to nurturing new talent is evident in Netflix’s initiatives, such as the Netflix VFX Academy internship program in South Korea. This program funds VFX artists and points them to work opportunities with Netflix’s partner companies. Sarandos proudly noted, “Seventy percent of the graduates from the program’s first session have since been hired by Netflix partners.”

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Korean content on Netflix

Looking forward, Sarandos shared ambitious plans for Korean content on Netflix. “One in five Netflix titles in Korea will come from a first-time writer or director,” he wrote in his column. “Last year, that included the creators behind Black Knight, Doona!, Siren: Survive the Island, and Unlocked. This year, we’re providing a global stage for the first-time filmmakers behind Bandland Hunters, My Name is Loh Kiwan, The Bequeathed, and The Frog. 

He also took time to address speculation regarding an American remake of Squid Game, clarifying that no such remake is in the works.

As Netflix prepares to unveil season two of Squid Game, fans worldwide are eager to see if Sarandos is right. Because he called the storyline “mindblowing,” anticipation for the show’s return is higher than ever. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sarandos had fun interacting with young VFX artists at the new Eyeline Studios VFX Korea office. Source: Netflix.

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‘Squid Game’ Star Admits Loving BTS Jungkook Latest Single

There is little doubt that everybody loves BTS. As it turns out, even “Squid Game” star Lee Jung Jae loves the boy group as he admits to having Jungkook latest single on repeat!

Lee Jung Jae Loves Listening to Jungkook Latest Single

The revelation that Lee Jung Jae, star of the hit series “Squid Game,” is a fan of BTS’s Jungkook’s latest single “Standing Next to You” has sparked excitement among both K-pop and K-drama enthusiasts. Lee Jung Jae’s admission adds another layer to the multifaceted relationship between the worlds of K-pop and K-dramas, showcasing the mutual admiration and support between industry legends.

In the greetings video released by Artist Company, Lee Jung Jae shared that Jungkook’s song is the one that gives him strength, emphasizing the emotional resonance and impact of the track. This endorsement not only highlights Jungkook’s musical prowess but also underscores the universality of BTS’s music, transcending genres and demographics to touch the hearts of diverse audiences.

Interestingly, despite his admiration for Jungkook’s music, Lee Jung Jae shares a personal connection with another BTS member, V. This revelation adds a personal touch to Lee Jung Jae’s appreciation for BTS, showcasing the interconnectedness of the entertainment industry and the genuine friendships that can form between artists.

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Shares First Teaser

Meanwhile, as “Squid Game 2” gears up for its highly anticipated release, the first stills offer tantalizing glimpses into the continuation of the gripping storyline. Protagonist Sung Ki Hoon’s decision to remain in Korea sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character and motivations, hinting at new challenges and revelations to come.

The unveiling of the enigmatic Front Man without his mask promises to peel back the layers of mystery surrounding the character, providing insight into his role in the deadly games. Additionally, the return of the Salesman, portrayed by Gong Yoo, adds intrigue and complexity to the narrative, signaling the continuation of the high-stakes drama that captivated audiences worldwide.

Overall, Lee Jung Jae’s endorsement of Jungkook’s music and the anticipation surrounding “Squid Game 2” serve as testaments to the enduring popularity and impact of both BTS and the groundbreaking Netflix series. As fans eagerly await the next chapters in these respective stories, the convergence of music and drama continues to captivate audiences and cement the legacy of these cultural phenomena.

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‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Drops First Look at Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, Gong Yoo, And More

Netflix’s mega-hit series “Squid Game” has given fans an exciting sneak peek into its highly-anticipated second season with the release of a set of intriguing stills featuring Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and more. The reveal has sparked a wave of anticipation as viewers eagerly await the continuation of the suspenseful and deadly games that captivated audiences worldwide.

“Squid Game” Season 2 Offers First Glimpse at Lee Jung Jae, Gong Yoo, and More

The first stills from “Squid Game 2” offer glimpses into the evolving storyline and the fate of familiar characters. Protagonist Sung Ki Hoon, portrayed by Lee Jung Jae, takes center stage as he opts not to join his daughter in the United States. Instead, he embarks on a new journey, entwined with the deadly games that defined the first season. The decision also sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Ki Hoon’s character and his motivations.

One of the striking images reveals the enigmatic Front Man, portrayed by Lee Byung Hun, with his mask off. The enigma surrounding the character is also set to unravel, providing fans with a closer look at the person behind the orchestrator of the brutal games. Additionally, the mysterious Salesman, played by Gong Yoo, who played a pivotal role in recruiting Ki Hoon in Season 1, adds another layer of intrigue.

The first look into Season 2 also introduces a new character, portrayed by Park Gyu Young. This fresh addition to the cast is seen as a new Squid Game contestant, raising questions about her role and the challenges that lie ahead for the characters.

Who is in “Squid Game 2”?

The upcoming season promises to continue the intense and suspenseful narrative that made “Squid Game” a global phenomenon. The addition of new cast members, including T.O.P (Cho Seung-hyun) from BIGBANG and Jo Yuri from IZ*ONE, also adds further excitement to the mix.

With the revelation of these captivating stills, the anticipation for “Squid Game 2” has reached new heights. As fans eagerly await the release, the first glimpses hint at a continuation of the intricate storyline, character developments, and the high-stakes games that have become synonymous with the series. “Squid Game” Season 2 is also poised to captivate audiences once again with its unique blend of suspense, drama, and social commentary.

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Watch: ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ Releases Teaser

Netflix releases the poster for 'Squid Game: The Challenge.' Credit: Twitter/Netflix

Attention players, the competition is about to begin! Netflix has released the teaser for the reality competition series Squid Game: The Challenge. 

In the one-minute teaser, fans are given a sneak peak on the challenges featured in the show. Interestingly, it appeared to be similar to the record-breaking South Korean series — from the sets, games, and outfits. In fact, there were snippets of the legendary game of Red Light, Green Light, as well as the famous doll Young-hee. 

“The biggest Netflix show ever becomes the biggest competition series,” the trailer said. 

To note, the Squid Game: The Challenge series isn’t a matter of life-and-death as the games won’t be fatal. Instead of survival, the 456 players are competing for a cash prize of $4.56 million. According to Netflix, it’s the largest cash prize in the history of reality television. 

Moreover, the streaming platform teased that each player in Squid Game: The Challenge will be “pushed to their limits.” “[The players will be] forced to ask themselves just how far they’ll go to win, with opportunistic alliances, cutthroat strategies and timely betrayals to follow,” Netflix added. 

It was in July 2022 when Netflix first confirmed that they’re creating a reality show based off the hit series Squid Game. Any individual around the world who can speak English was welcomed to apply to the competition. 

The 10-episode series will premiere on Netflix on November 22. 

More ‘Squid Game’ shows 

For those unfamiliar, Squid Game follows struggling contestants play childhood games with deadly consequences for a chance to win a hefty cash prize. Its first season, which premiered in September 2021, became Netflix’s biggest original series launch. 

In January 2022, Netflix confirmed that the hit series is returning for a second season. In June, they announced the cast members for season two.

 Only Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo are confirmed to reprise their roles for the second installment.

As for the new characters, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-guen were introduced as the new players. 

Meanwhile, Cho Seung-hyun, also known as T.O.P, and Jo Yuri are among the confirmed cast members. Additionally, the new additions include Park Gyu-young and Lee Jin-uk, Won Ji-an, Roh Jae-won, Lee David, and Kang Ae-shim. 

As for the second season of Squid Game, it is expected to premiere in 2024. But a final release date has yet to be announced.

Featured image: Netflix releases the poster for ‘Squid Game: The Challenge.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix

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Jo Yuri Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

The former IZ*ONE member admitted that she is grateful and fortunate to be a part of the successful Netflix series

Jo Yuri is truly happy about her latest project. The former IZ*ONE member was recently cast as one of the new actors joining “Squid Game” Season 2. Not surprisingly, the idol spoke about the casting process and admitted she was grateful for the project.

Jo Yuri Admits Being Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

Back in June, it was confirmed that Jo Yuri is one of the new cast members joining “Squid Game” Season 2. She will be joined by former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who will be returning to acting after a six-year hiatus. The rest of the new cast includes Park Gyu-young, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although their roles have not been announced, Jo Yuri has opened up about the casting in the Netflix series. In a new interview with Allkpop, the “Glassy” singer admitted she was thrilled to be chosen for the show.

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to audition for this role, and being able to participate in such an incredible project alongside respected seniors is truly an honor,” Jo said. “I’m fully committed to giving my utmost to deliver my best, so I kindly ask for your ongoing support throughout the journey!”

Jo participated in Mnet’s reality television show “Idol School” where the nine final participants would debut with the newly formed girl group Fromis 9. Unfortunately, she finished in 15th place but Jo didn’t give up hope. She later Mnet’s reality television show “Produce 48” where she finished in 3rd place. As one of twelve successful participants, she went on to be a part of the newly formed girl group IZ*ONE.

Jo Yuri debuted as a solo artist with the single album ‘Glassy’ in October 2021. Since IZ*ONE’s disbandment, she also pursued acting, appearing in the web shows “Mimicus” and “Work Later, Drink Now”. She recently dropped her new album ‘LOVE ALL’ and the title track “TAXI.” The second mini-album was released on August 9, 2023.

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Lee Jung Jae’s Agency Clarifies Squid Game Actor’s Involvement in T.O.P’s Casting in Season 2

Did Lee Jung-jae convince the producers of Squid Game Season 2 to cast a good friend? The Star Wars: Acolyte actor’s agency has addressed rumors that Lee helped former BIGBANG member Choi Seung-hyun aka T.O.P land a role in the Netflix series.

Earlier this week, Netflix announced eight more actors who will be joining Squid Game Season 2. The new cast members included Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although fans were delighted to learn that T.O.P is returning to acting, others thought that the casting was dubious and were convinced that lead star Lee Jung-jae convinced the producers to cast Choi Seung-hyun in Squid Game Season 2.

Since then, Lee Jung-jae’s agency Artist Company released a statement addressing the rumors.

“Some of the reports that claim actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2 are not true,” the statement read. “The casting of a project is the authority of the director and the production company.”

“In particular, actor Lee Jung Jae understands more than anyone that due to the great interest in Squid Game 2, many actors work hard to make an appearance, and [the cast members] are decided through audition,” it continued.

“Accordingly, we would like to reiterate that it is not true that actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2,” the statement concluded.

It was previously confirmed that ZE:A member Yim Siwan, Park Sung-hoon (The Glory), Kang Ha-neul (The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure), and Yang Dong-geun (Connect) will also join Squid Game Season 2. Their roles in the series are still undisclosed.

Squid Game Season 2 will bring back Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-joon, and Gong Yoo. The second season has not yet been given an official release date but is already expected to premiere on Netflix in 2024

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Squid Game Season 2 Adds ZE:A’s Siwan

Squid Game Season 2 has revealed the new cast members who are joining the games. A new teaser for the second season of the Netflix series confirms ZE:A member Im Siwan will join the show.

Squid Game Season 2 Announcement Video Reveals New Cast Members

The official cast announcement video was shared during TUDUM 2023, a global fan event for Netflix’s projects held in Brazil. The video confirms the return of Lee Jung Jae as Seong Gi-hun. Additionally, the second season will give Lee Byung-hun’s The Frontman an even bigger role to play.

There is an interesting surprise in the video as it confirms Wi Ha Joon will reprise his role as Hwang Junho. In the first season, the police officer was killed by his own brother who turned out to be the Frontman. However, it appears he survived and will continue to play a major role in the show.

The video also revealed four new actors who will be joining Squid Game next year. Yim Siwan is the first new cast member confirmed. The ZE:A member had previously appeared in the Netflix film Unlocked.

Park Sung-hoon (The Glory), Kang Ha-neul (The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure), and Yang Dong-geun (Connect) will also join Squid Game Season 2. Their roles in the series are still undisclosed.

The teaser for the second season of Squid Game also confirmed that Gong Yoo will be back. In the first season, the Train to Busan actor played the recruiter who convinces Gi-hun to join the games.

One actor who will not return is Jung Ho-yeon who played Kang Sae-byeok in the first season. Sae-byeok was a fan favorite but was ultimately killed by Cho Sang-woo (Park Hae-soo).

Squid Game Season 2 was not yet given an official release date. However, the second season of the series is already expected to premiere on Netflix in 2024. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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