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Initially, it appeared that the creator of the most significant television phenomenon of all time would hesitate to continue exploiting his creation. However, it didn’t take long for the second season of The Squid Game to become a reality on Netflix. The streaming platform greenlit the production of a new installment of the unforgettable series with a short teaser showcasing the piercing eyes of the doll Young-hee from the Red Light/Green Light game. This was accompanied by a heartfelt message from the show’s creator, Hwang Dong-Hyuk.
“Although it took us 12 years to premiere ‘The Squid Game’, it only took 12 days to become the most popular series in Netflix history.”
This was how Hwang Dong-Hyuk’s message began, shared by Netflix on Twitter. He took this opportunity to thank fans for their unwavering support and offer intriguing details about the upcoming season. While we already knew about the return of Gi-hun and The Leader, new characters like Young-hee’s boyfriend, Cheol-su, and the possible return of the suited man with ddakji were rather surprising for fans.
Furthermore, let’s gather below everything we know thus far about Season 2 of The Squid Game.
Release Date for Season 2 of ‘The Squid Game’
Netflix
Netflix has finally disclosed that the highly anticipated Season 2 is set to debut on December 26, 2024. Additionally, it has also been revealed that Season 3 will be the final season, scheduled for release sometime in 2025.
Who’s Back for Season 2 of ‘The Squid Game’?
Several returning cast members have been confirmed for the new season. Lee Jung-jae will reprise his role as Gi-hun, while Lee Byung-hun will return as The Leader. Additionally, Wi Ha-jun will be back as the detective Jun-ho, and Gong Yoo will play the recruiter once again.
Netflix
Moreover, there are several new additions to the cast, including Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.
Given that Gi-hun was the sole survivor, the chances of other cast members returning are slim. However, flashbacks or other narrative techniques could provide some unexpected surprises for viewers.
In fact, several actors have expressed interest in returning to Season 2 of The Squid Game if the opportunity arises.
Anticipations for Season 2 of ‘The Squid Game’
Hwang revealed to Vanity Fair back in May that “humanity will be tested once again” in the upcoming season. His objective is to tackle the question: “Is true solidarity among humans possible?“
Currently, details about the storyline remain scarce. However, with Gi-hun making a return in this new season, it’s reasonable to assume that the narrative will continue to explore the aftermath of the first season. Gi-hun, the winner and only survivor of the games, was about to board a flight to see his daughter when he received a call inviting him to join the organization; enraged, he stormed out of the airport, seemingly determined to end the games.
Yet, Hwang has assured fans that there will be more deadly games in Season 2, which indicates a continuation of the intense and high-stakes atmosphere the series is known for.
The overarching plot has been brewing in the mind of the South Korean filmmaker for quite some time. “I have the basic storyline mapped out in my mind,” he stated previously to Entertainment Weekly. “In the first season, Gi-hun’s humanity is revealed in various situations. Essentially, his humanity is shown passively. But I believe that in the second season, everything he has learned from the games and his experiences in the first season will be actively utilized.
Netflix
“Regarding The Leader, who was also a former winner, he is somewhat like Darth Vader,” Hwang explained about this pivotal character. “Some end up as Jedi, while others become Darth Vader, don’t they? I believe that Gi-hun may encounter a critical point where his character will also be examined.
Actor Lee Jung-jae mentioned to People that the director confirmed that Gi-hun “will return to the arena once more”. He also discussed themes of revenge, suggesting that it’s safe to assume, based on the finale of the first season, that the main plotline of the second season will revolve around revenge.
More Deadly Challenges on the Horizon
In March 2023, Hwang assured Deadline that the new season will feature various survival games that are deadly, impossible, and significantly different from the children’s games that serve as their inspiration.
“There will be more fantastic games; that’s all I can reveal,” he stated. While he prefers not to spoil the surprises for viewers, one thing is certain: one of the new games will include another giant doll, Cheol-su.
The Trailer for ‘The Squid Game’ Season 2
While an official trailer has yet to be released, Netflix has already shared several sneak peeks of the second season. The longest and most recent of these previews showcases the infamous recruiter as he searches for new players to partake in the deadly competition.
