Koreans React to Global Success of Squid Game | Street Interview

[@OneAndOnlyMe]

"their reality was harsher than those games" - That right there is a perfect summary of Squid Game.

[@marythiel9447]

I think that it was less of their realities being harsher than the games (like very probably going to die vs not dying) and more of the control they felt they had in the situation. In real life they had little to no control to make it better, while in the games at least they where doing _something_ tangible that gave them a sense of control

[@eduardorodriguez8995]

“Red Light, Green light” literally exists in every country, but with a different name

[@johann8128]

In france, its "1..2..3.. soleil" which translates to "1..2..3.. sun/sunshine". Pretty funny how the translations are completely different

[@mann7298]

was also thinking this, we might not have the exact games, but we all have our traditional childrens games so its very relatable

[@tomato_6681]

In Slovakia its vidličky lyžičky nože or cukor káva čaj rum bum (2 variations), which translates to forks spoons knives/sugar coffee tea rum boom.

[@mann7298]

@DRAGISTEEL TV got something more bitter to say? even if you dont have the same game you most likely had some other traditional childrens games, unless your childhood was utterly miserable, that way you should be able to relate to the game and show. otherwise go hmmm somewhere else lol

[@pollisgaming3168]

in mexico is 1,2 3, calabaza which translates to 1,2,3 pumpkin

[@CentralAssassin]

Don't be surprised if a lot of series will show up in the future like this show or with controversial concepts

[@avatar5811]

Omg I burst into tears when Cho-Sang Woo betrayed Ali. Ali should have checked the stones earlier😭😭 Including the scene where Sae-Byok’s partner sacrificed herself. “The saddest thing about betrayal is that it never came from your enemies. It came from Friends”.💔❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹😢😢😢-Quote & Also the dalgona candy hit me. Just like my grandma always told me, “You shouldn’t rush things, because if you do, things will fall apart. Always listen to directions carefully.”👂

[@Der.Geschichtenerzahler]

The platform is very similar to this series

[@chigto]

I hope seeing the success of squid games instead of going with the typical romance k dramas they do more creative work like squid game

[@AR1GAT0]

There are many shows out there like this already, have many fend of their lives in groups for the main prize. This is also because this is what has happened during medieval times for entertainment.

[@cheerio4742]

yeah but the concept is pretty cliche, the show is good but not that deep of a plot (for me).

[@stuartsilvagomez6495]

I believe that other korean films like Parasite and series like Kingdom paved the way for Squid Games to get up to this level of popularity

[@babyyoda4477]

And don't forget train to busan!

[@helloworld2784]

@@babyyoda4477 Train to Busan got the love and hyped it deserved.

[@helloworld2784]

Kingdom.. is an insane series. I'm glad they're having new seasons! ❤

[@georgianash6635]

I agree! We’re becoming more accepting

[@stuartsilvagomez6495]

@@helloworld2784 waaaaaat? Whhhheeeen?

[@sophiaisabelle01]

Also, the show itself catapulted almost several newbie actors to stardom-prime example is Jung Ho-yeon-cause we all know she’s originally a model before she started acting.

[@ok_listen]

No I didn’t know

[@gojosensei6501]

She hardly did any acting, her face was blank all the time

[@snflwrbrain5723]

Her face did all the acing. :)

[@bouncyavi4528]

@@gojosensei6501 that was a part of her character. Like how lan zhan kept a straight face for 90% of the untamed

[@Cho0segoose]

@Guacamole in korea she's known as a model. Obviously not in the US

[@matasuki]

Let's be honest...most of the world relates to Squid Game. Human nature on display at its finest. When push comes to shove most of us would do some messed up stuff and find a way to justify it/rationalize it.

[@daisychong3488]

Yes! Thank you! I was looking for that.

[@sage6861]

This is a very shallow understanding of what the show was about. Blaming "human nature" is precisely what the rich assholes in masks want you to think.

[@matasuki]

@@sage6861 How would you break it down? That's what I took from it (in less than 5 lines). The people at anytime could have chosen to go back and bravely face the adversity they faced but instead decided to volunteer to be part of the madness all for the money. The things people are willing to do to others for their families or themselves, that's what I took away. The VIPs exploited these psychological weakness for fun sure I'll grant that to you.

[@FruityHachi]

no, that's not human nature but golem effect

[@jasonmason6910]

Exactly. We’re all humans

[@mashitta5969]

Glad to see that Korean shows are getting more attention cause they were always amazing. Korean shows are HUGE in Aisa from the beginning and now it's gaining popularity in western markets! Koreans truly deserve it.

[@queso3466]

Yup exactly true:)

[@Kanuk97]

It'll also help with the recognition of their movies especially with Parasite winning Best picture now a TV show trending and number 1

[@CoolNumber1]

Yeah korean work very hard, I think they deserve it. hard working people all the way.

[@shinbi6009]

Korean shows getting more attention? As if they already aren't!

[@sugakookies8063]

I’m not even Korean but I’m loving it. Their films are wayyy too good to be overshadowed by all these other lackluster films

[@sage6861]

It seems one of the main criticisms Koreans have is that it shows a lot of negative sides to Korea and Korean society, but, coming from a non-Korean perspective, that's kinda what I like about it. I think it's willingness to deal with societal issues is precisely what makes it so popular. Much like Parasite, Squid Game has a very anti-capitalist message at its core. Things like income inequality, poverty, and debt are universal issues; odds are you suffer from at least one of them, or at the very least know someone who does, and these issues have only been exacerbated by the pandemic. So it's really not that surprising that a show that deals with these issues in a very extreme way is popular.

[@camille744]

Yeah I think an extreme satirism is what they were going for, the high stakes also makes it more of a thriller. And on this interview: this was a street interview from a decently affluent are. Students and ppl walking around the street. If they went to the farther presincts or poorer areas of Seoul I'm assuming that mountains of debt or poor living conditions wouldn't be extreme or negative. Besides, there's a mountain of other kdramas on netflix and most are romance genred, not so negative.

[@YeazyJeff]

Well said

[@crimson2knight]

It's definitely a breath of fresh air not dealing with the typical troupe that is in kdrama like love wealth gap, terminal illness, and car accidents. I appreciate the director didn't shove a love line into squid game.

[@captainadventures]

Yes, from the US to the falsely "communist" China, people are suffering greatly under capitalism. This show speaks to all of us around the world

[@Despotic_Waffle]

East asian societies like hiding the negative aspects and social harmony. This type of self criticism of the human nature is something new for them.

[@ytsurfer6042]

The way these Koreans give their comments are also outstanding. They are eloquent and smart.

[@nocaptainmatt3771]

Just saying but you'd be hard pressed to fund such eloquent conversation or responses by a vast amount of Americans, and this is coming from one

[@user-urwedfvftgfr228]

명성황후=NO.1위안부,덕혜옹주=NO.2위안부,제주 4·3학살 만세,광주5·18학살 만세,주 한 미 군 이 한국 여 자 를 강간 했다. 한국 정 부 는 잡 을 권리 가 없다. 한국 은 미국의 노예 이다！ 한국 은 중국의 천년 속국 이다. 모든 문 화 는 중국 에서 왔 다. 한국 의 유일한 원천 은 주 한 미 군 이다. 주 한 미 군 이 야 말로 한국 의 주인 이다. 한국 여자 들 은 미 군 을 좋아한다.🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏.'

[@EugeneCHo-pi7tl]

Not surprising when 80% of their young population go on to get at least a bachelor's degree

[@uwu9766]

@@user-urwedfvftgfr228 Troll with translator. The grammar is all wrong and full of toxic words.

[@Pepsi_Cola]

@@user-urwedfvftgfr228 Um Korean here. Please ignore this dude. His Korean grammar is completely nonsense and might be a Chinese spy.

[@sophiaisabelle01]

Overall, Squid Game is a morbidly fascinating web series on Netflix to watch on your spare time. If y’all are too bothered about the excessive gore, violence, and other R-rated things that the show has, I guess it’s best for you to watch Hometown Cha Cha Cha instead-at least it’s much lighter somehow.

[@thestrategist5579]

I fully disagree @ S i . It's a catastrophic waste of of human time and destructive to the soul and should be avoided at all cost. and most likely, there's an army of bots who are punching up the popularity and views of this cheap drama series to only enhance such manipulated value for the show. Parents absolutely should be preventing kids from watching this crap and young adults should be looked at cautiously if they are so consumed dumbfoundedly by this series. I'm sorry . over and out !

[@FruityHachi]

@@thestrategist5579 exactly, it promotes pessimistic view of humans and unhealthy and limiting beliefs about money it doesn't even bring anything new to the table in regards to poor vs rich survival genre and characters are so stereotypical

[@dalmeow]

Hometown Cha Cha is so beautiful 😍

[@GeorgeMartinus]

Squid Game is great, but for this year KDrama... I prefer Devil Judge. It has wilder plot. And to think Devil Judge is not in Netflix, this could be there are some elements and scenes in last episodes are too sensitive to these days global situation. It might be worried the drama's plot could drive the audience's general opinions. I can't tell what it is due to heavy spoiler, but I recommend you all to watch Devil Judge as well. One of the best KDramas I ever watched so far with such unique story concept.

[@FruityHachi]

@@GeorgeMartinus Devil Judge started good but it became boring real quick and turned into typical political drama the episodes were dragging, so many boring scenes, it was a disappointment

[@Socially_Inept_Gyopo]

as a korean american, I must say I am happy to see a korean show make it big here in the west. I never thought Id see this day

[@jeensjaams9933]

I definitely would never have predicted seeing some of the kdrama of my youth on Netflix

[@fur8104]

Why do yall keep saying the West?? Like just say north america.It's not popular in other western countties

[@Socially_Inept_Gyopo]

@@fur8104 its on the netflix top 10 list for this week in great britain, germany, sweden, and a few others

[@PullbacksForBucks]

@@fur8104 actually its number one on netflix and number one in NA... soo....

[@sajans3998]

@@jeensjaams9933 you should watch the kdrama "move to heaven" too.

[@sayuri3917]

It's interesting that Koreans are concerned about how social inequality is portrayed in the show, but as a Brazilian viewer we can related about that too. It's kinda a worldwide issue. We are not judging, folks. Relax. We love Korean shows 🇧🇷

[@darkwowpg]

Interesting that most koreans didn't like the violence in this series. I guess we are getting numb with so many bloody series/movies from us.

[@shay_z6059]

What I was thinking too. Guess they’re not that used to it. Sort of makes sense since most k-dramas are about love so for something so bloody and dark they probably weren’t ready for it.

[@anisha5259]

Most of the more gory stuff aren't even from the us tbh...from what I have seen.

[@Dokdoo]

Exactly. Korean dramas are usually love-themed. But the Korean movie industry has many incredibly violent films, usually with a sort of revenge theme. I don’t watch Korean dramas but Korean movies are fantastic.

[@SMLee-c7t]

They do like violence. It's just they didn't want to look conceited by giving the show 10 out of 10, and they needed an excuse for taking off 2 points.

[@itzelmontalvo6645]

@@SMLee-c7t Koreans do not watch the same amout of violence as we do in the U.S and thats a fact. Look at kdramas and then look at one of our top shows, and I can 90% guarantee that at least one of our top shows will be extremely gory.

[@sherlock.117]

As an American who loved the show, this is what I think: Squid Game isn’t so much about Korea or wealth gaps. It’s more psychological and sociological than that, in a broader sense that appeals to any society operating on money to live. That’s why it’s been popular in so many different countries. Sure, people relate to certain things more than others, but what the show did so smartly was reveal the deep struggle of financial desperation, basic survival, greed, depression, hope and hopelessness. These are personal themes we experience in our world. As for why the show is so popular even for those who don’t pick up on those themes and see it as just another thing to watch for the week, it’s because survival games are captivating types of entertainment. Hunger Games, Escape Room, Saw, The Purge, The Hunt, the list goes on and on. All violent, scary, dangerous situations that involve people being forced by other people to compete against one another in life or death scenarios. They’ve entertained humans for generations, dating back to Medieval times for example with gladiator matches. The show makes sure to include excessive violence as a reminder of how disgusting these situations are. Each character in the show has fantastic symbolism that represent each good and bad side of human nature. Everyone from the main character to the VIP’s, the contestants to the guards, the detective to the Front Man, the cheaters and deceivers to the honest and fair. All those people exist in our real world. They’re not fictional. The story and characters are, but not the archetypes they represent. And then for the filmmaking critique, Dong-hyuk Hwang did an incredible job writing and directing. Everything with its mise-en-scene was genius. Cinematography, set design, score, acting, writing. It was really well made. Netflix was smart to pick this show up after 10 years of Hwang struggling to get a yes from a studio for making the show. Squid Game is a 10/10 to me. It resonated with me like many of my favorite shows and movies have also done, and I hope Season 2 is done properly and under Hwang’s creative leadership in the future.

[@arielsmangos1172]

Well said. I feel like I just read an online post to a prompt in college.

[@sherlock.117]

@@arielsmangos1172 thanks so much, that’s really nice of you

[@anna-5104]

Same, absolutely 10/10! :D No other Korean series that I know came even close to such masterpiece imo.

[@StreetDrilla]

Squid game is up there with Prison Break and parasite as one of my most favourite.

[@mikei6605]

it's universal because the entire world operates on Capitalism.

[@cyrusthekid3298]

"Koreans React to Global Success of Squid Game" the koreans: "yeah um ... cool"

[@curvymustang9412]

HAHHA

[@peterlee3467]

They honestly sound more excited talking about Avengers movies.

[@korean6706]

I honestly feel like Koreans became really numb about global success of their entertainment industry nowadays. We got excited when Parasite won best picture in Oscar in 2020, and then when yuh Jung yoon won best actress this year in Oscar as well. Some of us got excited once again when butter topped billboard hot 10 for like 10 weeks, but that was about it. I guess you could say Koreans are getting cocky, but to be fair it is hard to get so excited every couple of months. People feel that the industry is on the right track, and that we will hear alike news more and more as time pass. I guess we will throw a party once more, when squid game wins Emmy or sth, but until then we will just shrug off

[@Cantstophyperstellar]

@@korean6706 Koreans are more into local recognitions compared to International achievements, that's what i've noticed. It's not that they're cocky, International achievements aren't really a big deal for them/you, probably because majority uses korean server than global platforms

[@jacques9455]

@@korean6706 Squid game is overrated af especially the scene where the VIP's arrived. Their actings were terrible and cringeee and kinda sounded forced. I feel like they just picked some random white men on the street lmaoo. Anyways, i have a question. As a white person i'm curious to ask why are koreans so obsessed with white people? Are y'all worship white people or something?

[@fortune_roses]

I don't like dark stuff that much :/ but Korean cinema seems to take darker themes and makes it more *complex and interesting* and worth watching. It leaves you *● thinking ●* afterwards

[@CoolNumber1]

That why u never learn anything about life, to learn about life you need to face reality.

[@88marome]

@asdfasdfasdf lmao! Squid Game is reality?

[@nnn9854]

@@88marome No but it could be for some people. Not everything but some parts of the show or the characters might be relatable for other people. Nothing is funny so don’t laugh.

[@MrPhoxy]

@@88marome U miss what he meant, if you use a little brain the entire show are potraying the harsh reality people around the world..

[@ushdbrr1293]

All countries have their own problems But most countries only emphasize the good parts they have and don't expose the dark parts. The reason that Korea can continue to grow is that we do not hide the various problems that Korea has, we proudly reveal them and solve those problems one by one. Korea's economy and culture will continue to grow steadily in the future.

[@stephanieramirez5293]

In Bong Joo Ho's words: "Essentially we all live in the same country, called Capitalism". I think that is also why so many people can relate to it

[@user-urwedfvftgfr228]

명성황후=NO.1위안부,덕혜옹주=NO.2위안부,제주 4·3학살 만세,광주5·18학살 만세,주 한 미 군 이 한국 여 자 를 강간 했다. 한국 정 부 는 잡 을 권리 가 없다. 한국 은 미국의 노예 이다！ 한국 은 중국의 천년 속국 이다. 모든 문 화 는 중국 에서 왔 다. 한국 의 유일한 원천 은 주 한 미 군 이다. 주 한 미 군 이 야 말로 한국 의 주인 이다. 한국 여자 들 은 미 군 을 좋아한다.🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏🤏.!

[@30dayofprogress10]

Not in the true North 🇰🇵🇰🇵🇰🇵

[@kaiserteddie9564]

was that something he really said?

[@MGSVxBreakpoint]

It‘s called neo-liberalism. No matter whether they‘re Left or Right, all parties in governments worldwide believe in boundless accumulation of resources.

[@mitonaarea5856]

There's a difference between capitalism and neo liberalism. Neo liberalism is a characteristic of capitalism. Capitalism isn't uniform like communists want you to believe.

[@junpi8562]

It's interesting that some people thought we were only seeing negatives about Korea. The heart and the humour in Squid Game are my favourite things about it, and then the cast and the visuals of the sets.

[@yyl5336]

Koreans are very face conscious. They prefer to hide away or not deal with the negatives in their daily work. So its not surprising some koreans see only the negatives and are critical of the negative portrayal. Afterall, such a show may go beyond some korean level of tolerance. Afterall most are still very conservative.

[@user-lm9pj6zi1q]

​@@yyl5336 but we like to satirize society so we can be honest. That's not what most Koreans think

[@yyl5336]

@@AAA-ub7wh the non traditional ones would face the negatives. The traditional one would prefer to hide it away from the non korean speakers.

[@episteme6165]

While watching the squid game, I felt a series of twists in emotions. Perhaps that's what the director intended. Game participants participated in the game freely. But in fact, they couldn't help but participate in the game. They just play the simple games they played in their childhood. But if they lose the game, they die. At the end of their lives, they can sympathize with their colleagues and build friendships in the face of death. But you have to push your friendship to the cliff of death. That way you get more rewards. But the reward does not bring you happiness. I think this contradictory situation setting brought life to the story, and the actors' realistic acting added to it, making it a masterpiece.

[@isolvechess1941]

Yeah you are absolutely correct, there's no meaning in getting offended by it, it is meant to be very harsh and I respect the director for taking this risky step instead of censoring their idea

[@martins3067]

hearing them talk about how they don’t appreciate too much violence makes me realize how desensitized america is

[@MsLiannne]

Right? Also I feel like bc the games are something that hits home to them. Like these are games that still occur with korean children today. I think it plants this subconscious seed of anxiety kind of from the structure of the games towards their childhood games. Something that was for fun and games all of a sudden sort of takes away the lightheartedness of those games.

[@juliaj7939]

Weird since I've seen people say that American movies don't have enough violence and are afraid to show them.

[@julynightowl7413]

I'm confused about these interviewees.. ive been a long time fan of k ent industry and ive seen a lot of their top films and many of them are pretty brutal and violent. Their kdramas/series are nothing compared to how uncensored their movies are.

[@AN4RCHID]

It's interesting how mainstream Squid Game became in America. 10 years ago I think it would have been too extreme for a wide audience similar to something like Battle Royale, but now you have like suburban moms talking about it on facebook

[@AnaissN]

I'm not from the US (by the way I hate the way you all use "America", IT'S A CONTINENT NOT A COUNTRY, AND A LARGE ONE, WHICH I'M A PART OF, THANK YOU VERY MUCH.) And I still wasn't shocked by the violence of the show the way korean people seem to be. Again, in my country, US media is very popular and I consume it a lot, so maybe I'm insensitive to it, idk). But this seems to press to many of their buttons, koreans have violent media, I think the real reason they feel uncomfortable is because it depicts the ugliness of their society.

[@Olzme]

I always perceived Korean cinema to be decades ahead of any other country. Whenever I saw there was a Korean feature film (especially if it was a thriller) I'd hold off on watching it so I could save it as a treat. Koreans put so much effort into their cinematography and the actors, even the minor ones, portray so much emotions with a perfect amount of realism that I always feel like I am there in each scene. I honestly didn't think Korean shows and movies would break worldwide so soon but I am SO GLAD it is getting the exposure it deserves.

[@denimdimension]

it kinda copies from other shows though

[@RANDO4743]

Squid game isn't original in terms of the premise,the death game genre isn't new.

[@MyEpiphany430]

There's a reason why those similar shows didn't become big hits. They lack the talent of the actors or the details, dialogue, and story weren't as compelling.

[@JH-hh3sq]

@@MyEpiphany430 right?! Tired of people saying squid game copied other shows and that those shows are better (alice in borderland fans, talking to you).. at the end of the day, those shows wouldve been this much of a global hit if they were worth it. Squid game obviously had something they didnt 🤷‍♀️

[@denimdimension]

@@JH-hh3sq Squid game just had luxury to be featured in Netflix. Of course, Korean trend is ongoing so it is another factor. It just copied the plot from Kaiji manga, they modify the games and change some premise. I can not say that it is a direct ripoff but it certainly has ripoff Kaiji in many ways. Of course, being a big hit does not mean that it is good. It just catered to the mainstream taste.

[@yukuhana]

5:56 Wow that blond hair in white gave a great essay response to a difficult question on the spot. I like most of her thoughtful answers as well.

[@maec4356]

I agree! She speaks eloquently and seems very intelligent :)

[@yuichichi]

Yup “on the spot” is the most difficult part of it. That is someone you could have lots of interesting discussions with.

[@keepfightinggg3904]

In my opinion Squid Game is the otherside of Kdrama where we can get thriller,suspense and how people after hitting bottom try to do whatever is in their hand to survive.Of course we should take movie as movie and not judge the country from movie.Atlast it shows that you may win alot of money but that guilt you have after winning is much more burdensome.Last episode of drama shows that still there is "HUMANITY" which we should not forget.I rate it 10.💜

[@avatar5811]

Now i understand why Sae Byok (North Korean defector girl) don’t trust anybody in that game. “Because it’s better to have an enemy who honestly says they hate you, rather than a friend who’s putting you down easily. “ -Quote. Just like how Ali was been betrayed.

[@keepfightinggg3904]

@@avatar5811 Yes other games were about physical strengths, being quick but that marble game showed true nature of players and we humans also. That Ali scene was heart weeping and that sae byeok partner sacrificing herself and other partners sacrifice also worth watching and heart breaking scene.

[@seifyasser2225]

The show's writing began in 2009 so for sure a LOT has changed since then in Korea but still the show is great 👍

[@brianromeooscarhotel362]

Very popular here in New Zealand 🇳🇿 too! I am a Korean New Zealander btw. My non-Korean friends and work colleagues told me that they had loved Squid Game because the show indicts the rich for propagating a false sense of upward mobility and the poor for buying into it.

[@genocidegrand2057]

people need to know the story was based on a japanese manga

[@sambatra6162]

@@genocidegrand2057 except it wasn't

[@lilycha9398]

@@genocidegrand2057 It wasn't. This was conceptualized by the director since 2008. It's just that no one wanted to invest in it.

[@jeensjaams9933]

@@lilycha9398 wow a whole 13 yrs! well then kudos to the director for never giving up hope and to keep shopping it until it found the right home 😳👍

[@새-e6j]

You don’t have to keep saying this on so many comments. Honestly it doesn’t really matter to many people. Many don’t even care..

[@justmedidi]

i still have yet to watch it but i'm just so amazed by how quickly it's garnered so much support. it's really cool to see especially in the west, people giving other cultures' entertainment a chance :)

[@astridquarry1248]

I agree, it's great 🙂

[@highdopamine29]

maybe if they can put marvels in netflix people wont forget western movies, not evrybody can afford vpn esp in asia,..but evrybody can access netflix..with just a subscription..

[@sugakookies8063]

@@highdopamine29 but not everyone wants to watch marvel movies or western movies. Sure, they’re good, but it’s a great thing when another country and it’s culture comes into the spotlight

[@blueplanethand]

Big help that Netflix dubs many foreign series into English 🙏 I've also watched Brazilian, Spanish, French & Turkish series which I wouldn't have watched so readily if I had to read subtitles.

[@PORT.design]

@@blueplanethand it is weird because the use the same voice actors as the show 3% which is less violent version of the whole having "poor people compete against eachother to get out of poverty" story

[@choysyu]

The story is predictable but the execution of each scene makes it outstanding. Most South Korean outputs are better than the West's. There is always something about the SK works that make it unique and interesting.

[@hoo52]

Yeh it was predictable because in the beginning there were already clues and easter eggs and its fun to watch the desings the acting the easter eggs and the story evolving~

[@montwestblack3678]

Agreed

[@alexkardell]

Yeah but I honestly did not see the cops brother being the dude in the black mask coming. That shocked me.

[@choysyu]

@@alexkardell Not even a doubt or a little bit of thought? That's alright. Most of their works, either small or big screen, have that kind of twist. I'm still amazed with it. It captured our hearts. I watched it before it even became famous, I never thought it will be that super hit.

[@_wanted_outlaw3007]

@@choysyu with that in mind assuming you've already watched Korean shows before, many haven't and wouldn't know it's a common Trope if it's the first show of that type they watch.

[@Anon-xd3cf]

Red light green light is played all over the world in one form or another. The only game in squid games that is new to foreigners... Is squid game itself, though there are similar games that utilise drawing lines in the dirt.

[@jeanettetackett5119]

The game with the sugar candy was new to me.

[@SeageSpeaks]

I remember jumping on glass panels as a kid in canada. I was so good at that game. All my childhood friends are dead.

[@lilycha9398]

Squid game is quite similar to "patintero" from the Philippines.

[@fasni1301]

@@SeageSpeaks 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Edible_Kittens]

@@jeanettetackett5119 For some reason, I was thinking of piring wafer in Singapore. It’s shaped like a circle, and in it are smaller circles. So as kids, we would try to pick apart the snack until we got a perfect circle.

[@TCY-jn9nw]

The marble episode was a punch in the gut. 11/10.

[@luvdemjets1998]

IKR. When they announced the rules I said to myself "this episode is gonna make me cry, isn't it"? By the end of the episode the collar of my shirt was soaked in tears.

[@Hisherly]

My heart sinks

[@exstee]

Yeah my eyes haven’t sweated like that from a show in a long time

[@lsamoa]

Indeed. I don't think it had dawned on the contestants before that game that there would only be one winner in the end. Up until that point each game either relied on team effort or skills and had a relatively high survival rate. You could tell that they all thought "if we play well enough and make the right alliances then me and my friends can win". Then in this one, they had to turn on the ones they were closest to. It was heartbreaking.

[@Vtropicalmoon]

I literally gasped and it's the only show recently to actually have me so shocked like that, I love it

[@Jooooooshcha]

They should give the show more credit. It was actually a really good show

[@lolomundo5226]

The takeaway message I got from this interview was that Koreans were put off by the level of violence in the show whereas Americans are just way more desensitized to violence so everyone here found it much more palatable. I mean we already had movies like the Hunger Games...which was a children's novel/movie lol and the Japanese film Battle Royale. So the premise of Squid Game isn't particularly new, it's tried and true for Americans

[@lilyh1470]

If it wasn't the just the violence that offended them (gun violence, past trauma, etc), its also the fact South Koreans don't want talk or show their flaws and failure on a big screen (they're no different from any other country) ( they're attempting "Saving Face"). I'm glad the screen writers, producers, and production of Squid Game (and nextflix) put this out because people need to talk about it. This show focused so much than just 'debt', it really evalutes on how do we really vaule ourselves and other human lives.

[@cammyt9030]

@@lilyh1470 Asking this respectfully - how do Koreans expect to improve their society if they don't raise awareness and talk about things even if they are unpleasant to face. Isn't it better to have everything out in the open so society can work together to find solutions?

[@Anon-xd3cf]

I'm not sure that squid game being Korean has anything to do with being popular. For me, the music was beautiful and exhilarating. The shows pace was great and the twists were not all predictable.

[@sambatra6162]

True!

[@Rubzplaysbrawl]

Sorry but you’re wrong

[@Rubzplaysbrawl]

Lots of people don’t tune in or aren’t interested in the Korean language

[@alanway5]

they do some seriously good stuff every once in a while like parasite, train to busan, oldboy and now this series. at least in america we dont like watching foreign movies cuz the language aint appealing and most aint good.

[@lowewsv]

I disagree, I think Squid Game being Korean has something to do with it. like there's tons of good shows and stuff out there, not just in Korea but all around the world. and the reason why it got so hyped was because Korean entertainment were slowing started to getting recognization by western people. like the comment up there mentioned, there was the oldboy,parasite, train to busan, bts and all that. if we didn't had those Korean wave thing before this show? idk man idon't think Squid game will have gotten this much popular.

[@megambam]

as far as portrayals of certain groups/minorities go, I think the show is meant to highlight the worst aspects of human nature and not supposed to be a 100% accurate picture of how society seemingly functions. it's all about exploitation and revealing uncomfortable truths

[@taiyonatiare7918]

Exactly. This show takes real problems and social issues and portrays them in its extreme.

[@brunagil1275]

Agree! And also, they said things are "getting better" for minorities in the country, but to be honest, I don't think they were complete honest with that answer. They don't want to look bad for a global audience, but some of what were shown about certain groups/minorities has in did some faces of true.

[@KshipsinKchups]

Like parasite

[@shauniek]

@@brunagil1275 Yup

[@Rogie-yi9ii]

12:08 이분 정말 말씀 잘하시네요 원레 이 채널에서는 그냥 아무말이나 하는 분들때문에 정확한 팩트가 전달이 안되거나 오해의소지가 많이 발생하는데 이런 분들이 인터뷰에 응해주신다면 더욱 좋을거같습니다~

[@Judy_Haejung_Jung]

저도 공감이요! 사실 다른분들 인터뷰 횡설수설하시는 것들이 많아서 뭐지 싶더라구요.. 그래도 이마저도 한국의 현실이라는 생각도 들구요.

[@Inb1young0]

앗 저에요!!! 칭찬 감사합니다

[@무쏘의뿔Y]

@@Inb1young0 말 엄청 잘하시네요. 멋있어요!!

[@jobo8281]

Foreigners that haven't lived in Korea or know much about it would probably have missed the significance of the Seoul University storyline as well. Where there is such pride and pressure going to one of the 3 main universities but that doesn't mean you are going to have a successful or happy life.

[@jr3kg3]

I picked up on that, as well 🤫😋😉

[@mac9733]

I mean, everyone has top universities, and the show made it obvious Seoul University is one of Korea's top colleges. That storyline was pretty understandable globally. Kind of like bragging how your friend attended Harvard or Oxford University

[@jobo8281]

@@mac9733 Yes everyone has universities but Korea takes it to the extreme with family pressure and expectation to get into them. Kids literally killing themselves to do well in the exam. And then once your in the expectation that your life will be set, good job, good life.

[@이름뭘로하지-y6o]

@@mac9733 I think it holds a different level of significance for people living in Korea(or countries with similar standards like Japan, China, India, etc) because Korea is very strict on what colleges you go to and what future you have. Students spend their 12 years of basic education studying to go to the best universities; top students study more than 10 hours a day and go to many after-school lessons called hagwon. A lot of students take the wrong path in life or even commit suicide due to the stress they face, because many people are under the impression that good college = good life. If you go to a high-ranking university, everyone will be proud of you. You will get a good job and live a happy life. If you don't go to college or end up in the low ranks, you're a disgrace to the family. You make your parents ashamed and your future is in shambles.

[@allenk6373]

​@@이름뭘로하지-y6o open your own company or become freelance worker

[@LaCréé.e]

"Red light, green light" is the most universal kid game you can think of lol. The squid game on the other hand... I still don't understand the rules to this day.

[@2nd3rd1st]

Good Limp Bizkit song too ^^

[@JaySee5]

It’s like King of the hill.

[@aayonambrose7575]

Exactly i here Koreans saying this is a game I'm Korea , have they ever ask any foreigner over 20 ever ,what games we played in school, every school yard had red light green light .it is not unique to south Korea

[@cabb1413]

@@aayonambrose7575 Also, tug-of-war and marbles! My mother is 58 yrs old and played these games when she was a child.

[@Tomtomxyz26]

“Squid game” is quite outdated. It was mostly played in 1970-90s.

[@neutralfog]

Korean people are actually well spoken. They seem to be well educated.

[@yessir68]

It’s one of the most educated countries in the world

[@koyukiny]

South Korea is one of the most educated countries in the world. It'a fact. Their desire for better education is no joke.

[@ziaverse6045]

I think the concept of survival game is what made people interested. Is also cool that Alice In Borderland is getting attention since the concept is the same

[@sari9645]

That and the imagery!! It’s so unique!

[@sarahmendespsicologia]

AIB is amazing!

[@Sayumi820]

Yes, Imawa no Kuni no Alice (Alice in Borderland) was even better than Squid Game.

[@jaehyunscousinnara4537]

@@Sayumi820 ye Alice in borderland is so good I can't even compare

[@renzoperez8077]

@@Sayumi820 their acting suck

[@user-es7nb7ne7k]

아시아보스는 한국에 대한 관심 꺼줬으면

[@jihyoslove971]

Why so ? 왜요 ?

[@아롱범-w4j]

I think it is a masterpiece in that we thought, sympathized with, laughed, and cried together about the problems of all the world

[@highdopamine29]

korean keeps showcasing their art.. from kpop, kdrama, kseries kmovies, they represent their nationality so well through entertainment.. im excited to what more they can offer..

[@djibicisse]

All this hides a very dark side of Korea unfortunately

[@jaychong12]

@@djibicisse what dark sides are you talking about, lol?

[@djibicisse]

@@jaychong12 have u been there?

[@jaychong12]

@@djibicisse I was born in South Korea and moved to U.S in 1980.

[@ephinyus]

I'm in the U.S. and fell in love with Korean dramas in 2010, when I watched Dandelion Family ( 민들레 가족 ). I've been watching them ever since then. So when I learned how well Squid Game (which I loved btw!) has done all over the world, I was so proud of South Korea. I got a lot of my friends to watch it too, and they also love the show. I can't wait to introduce them to more kdramas that I love, and they've been asking me for suggestions! One thing in Squid Game that is not talked about in the U.S., since many in the U.S. do not know about her, is how precious Kim Young-ok is! I'm not even Korean, but I feel she is my Grandma too. I've seen her in so many kdramas, and I just love her. Korea's National Grandma just went International, and she is a treasure. 💜

[@jeensjaams9933]

Yessss Global Grammy lesgedit!! Truly a treasure of an actor.

[@sugakookies8063]

Was that Sang-woo’s mom? She has the kindest eyes so I’m not surprised she’s the nation’s grandmother🤣

[@ephinyus]

@@sugakookies8063 She's Gi-hun's mom. She's been acting since 1957 and she's 83 years old. I still remember the 1st drama I saw her in... Coffee Prince. Gong Yoo, who plays the game recruiter, was also in Coffee Prince.

[@sugakookies8063]

@@ephinyus oh, her too🤣 her ending was so sad tho

[@aureuda1847]

She also appears in Hometown Cha Cha Cha. I love her!

[@illegirl6272]

I love these Korean street interviews. People are so intellectual, eloquent and smart. When I watch street interviews done in my country, the exact opposite. I wonder if these are average Koreans.

[@claudiawoods4382]

Sometimes I wonder that myself. It is not that I expect other countries to have the same questionable reputation that Americans have when it comes to education in general. But it seems to be a rarity for Asian Boss to interview those who present as uneducated. A few other programs I have watched do include a mix of interviewees, some who are not always so well-spoken and knowledgeable. I don't think that Asian Boss does this consciously, however. I suspect that this might have something to do with the relative age of many/most of the Asian Boss reporters.

[@MJMJMJMJM]

In this video... Yeah they are average koreans

[@Hisherly]

We don't know if this is staged or not so...

[@김재원-b7t7c]

평범한 사람들..

[@kiki-ww6ut]

한국 젊은 사람들은 대부분 대학을 졸업합니다. 여기 인터뷰 한 사람들은 한국인 입장에서 보면 다 평범한 사람들로 보입니다.

[@luc_theriault]

people need to stop being sensitive for everything. the show was meant to be violent, its a death fricking game for god's sake. I wish we could stop this over sensitive era soon. This Serie was a solid 9/10. The show do have some flaws but in general the show was awesome. Minorities(Ali) and the north Korean defector( Sae-Byeok) show some real thing that is happening in life. No not all north Korean steal money, but she kinda had to steal for her and her family which is something that could very much happen in real life. Same thing with Ali and how he was a bit clueless to South Korea way of living. Many immigrant have difficulties to integrate in a new country, which is normal for a minority when they come live in a foreign country.

[@hannesRSA]

It was ok.. not really intricate, games meant to cull by 50% but some "fair rules" added which is unrealistic. I'd say 7/10 "OK" - better than most other shows which are quite poor lately. Networks only need to make it good enough to keep a majority happy.

[@munchkin54]

@@hannesRSA ok

[@MA-vt3fq]

ikr, idk why they complain about violence and death when it's literally in the teaser/discretion lmao

[@nousername3532]

They complain about the violence because Korea is still quite conservative

[@hannesRSA]

@@nousername3532 what about the sick psychopathic behaviour accepted in K-Dramas? I find it hypocritical to see those as harmless.

[@slylover123]

The pandemic has really elevated the wealth gap and the misgivings of a capalistic society and squid game came at the perfect time-its appropriate commentary on what people have been thinking

[@listenboi4237]

The director of this series said "thats how BTS felt when they came 1 on billboard" damnn the drama was great 🔥🔥

[@mann7298]

lol when did he say that

[@Daewonnni]

I think one of the reasons why Korean entertainment is doing so well today is that the countries creatives know the right blend between Eastern and Western tastes. South Korea, though incredibly proud and unique in its Confucian customs, fiercely adapted democracy, capitalism and American pop culture since the war. Today, South Korea has matured to express this blended identity well. Ironically, it’s the ills of this hyper-capitalism Squid Game is critiquing.

[@siegeism]

Korean content, music, film,TV finally getting it’s place on the stage. Whispering Corridors, Memento Morí, Train to Busan, Parasite, Homeless Squid Game - just too much good stuff to name.

[@dynamicdave2647]

Korean music was good even long time ago

[@siegeism]

@Avocado Gunhoo Thanks so much! I'll make the time.

[@facebooksmith1269]

As a 60 year old Korean American and somebody that left Korea at the age of 10 when Korea was a 3rd world country, what I'm most impressed about is the fact that Korea is a world powerhouse in entertainment and technology. They have the 10th largest economy in the world with just 50 million people. When I immigrated to America, I hid the fact that I was Korean. I would lie and say I was Japanese. Because when I left Korea, Korea never won any Olympic medals, we had beggars on the streets, outhouse, no running water, nobody had a car except for the filthy rich, human wastes were picked up from the outhouse and dumped in a landfill, no malls, dirty streets ... Korea was poorer than North Korea, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other 3rd world countries in Asia. And to see Korea now, it is mind boggling. In my lifetime, Korea went from being a poor laughing stock of the world to a country that produces #1 shows on Netflix. Congrats to the Korean people. I can't take any credit as I wasn't there. And when I went back for the first time 5 years ago ... OMG! Again, Congrats. I'm proud of you.

[@maddiepaddy2608]

My mom volunteered for the peace corps when she was 16 to help Korea. I was so surprised bc I thought Korea had it all figured out by then!

[@-441-]

Thank you for sharing your perspective. It's refreshing to hear it from your POV. Especially being a guy who knows nothing about Korea's economic boom. The economy post-war was mentioned by a few people in the video as well, so the fact that you mention it and in a bit more detail brings it all full circle.

[@DakshBabbar]

Mr Park Chunghee was the one who brought all of it. His extreme, authoritarian, capitalist policies, which though exploited the poor, brought the miracle of the hangang river. It liberalised the korean economy at extreme levels in extremely low time. It massively increased the wealth inequality and exploitation, but this was rectified by the later presidents, so i think it was worth it. Everything needs a sacrifice, in this case it was the poor population of Korea.

[@-441-]

@@DakshBabbar Dang, you sound like The Front Man🗿

[@klaudinegarcia8932]

My Dad did told me before that Phillippines used to be ahead of South Korea. And I also learned from watching Running Man that the older generation used to admire and listen to Filipino music. I hope one day Phillippines will become developed country and find our identity. The name Philippines isn't appropriate to call a group of people who's ancestors had been fighting for many generations to take back our home.

[@Riac007]

I played Red Light Green Light as a child raised in the US

[@hxpewxrld]

Regarding the question about human rights improving in Korea: Obviously I'm not Korean so I can't speak to how accurate it was for the average person. But isn't the point that most of the characters were down on their luck, at rock bottom, or at their wits end? Wasn't it supposed to show those who are still treated poorly or scammed regardless of what the average population goes through? Otherwise they wouldn't have been desperate enough to go back and play for the money, right?

[@lowewsv]

I'm Korean and I agree with you, that was what the show was about. if they actually made the protagonists that "normal" as how society's average is, the story will doesn't make any sense and it's not what the show about. what Squid Game wanted to show us was the human nature and desire, instinct that we cannot normally see since we hide it all the time. a

[@hxpewxrld]

@@lowewsv Exactly! I saw it as a commentary on how desperation can force us into this survival mode that can get us to make even the most extreme decisions. It's why, if we hadn't seen how bad their situations were it wouldn't have made sense to us why they went back. Good to know I seemed to be on the right track 😅

[@akirebara]

It made me think of Amazon workers, going back every season to work at the warehouses, despite the harsh conditions. It made me think about the soldiers who sign up over and over again to be deployed for countries at war despite PTSD because it’s the only profession they think they can do. And who are the folks who make the most money on boxing, football games, etc, with players having brain damages down the line? We are living in a world of Squid Game, this piece of art is just reflecting it like a (black) mirror

[@eugenechin2863]

@@akirebara The series takes a subtle dig at capitalism where the rich laud over the miserable. The world is at the point where the ultra super rich can literally get away with murder while those stuck below have to slog, fight and suffer just to survive. Just think when the GFC hit, the bank's who were greedy got bailed out while the ordinary citizens lost their homes. It was the greed of some of those bank's that caused the crisis but in the end they got bailed out while the normal people lost everything.

[@akirebara]

@@eugenechin2863 exactly. The world is burning, climate change is killing the poor people but the rich are enjoying their money in their mansions and flying their private planes and laughing and poor folks, almost saying "stop being poor!" Tbh, we've all felt like Gi-Hun at many points in our lives.

[@IXSICNESS]

Koreans: this show is too violent Park chan wook: you have seen my movies right????

[@nournjeim]

😂😂😂

[@spongebob2507]

1:26 로맨스만 챙겨봤봄 한국에도 다양한 소재들의 대작들이 많은데 (시그널. 부산행 . 올드보이. 설국열차. 마녀 . 비밀의숲 ....)

[@kristygregg6167]

I liked the rawness of this show. Partly because I believe there’s a way all countries can relate to it. I don’t believe it’s derivative of all Korean culture I think it speaks to human nature a lot. But I do appreciate the parts it teaches about things Koreans may be going through, North and South. It’s a very relatable show. I don’t see as much of the wealth class situation personally as people in other parts of the country do, even though I don’t live in a wealthy part of the U.S. But the sexism I can definitely relate to and the capability of women. I really enjoyed this show and I didn’t derive any notions that this is how things are for persons in Korea in general since things tend to be sensationalized in movies and shows. I do appreciate the culture it did share with the rest of the world. I did sense and appreciate the humanness it showed. Society in all walks of life and all countries have a long way to go. (And I definitely binged watched this show and loved it. Thank you Korea❤️❤️❤️!!)

[@davidospina5216]

Hello Kristy how are you doing?

[@lsamoa]

The social situations that the characters are in prior to entering the games isn't sensationalised actually, a lot of Koreans crumble under debts and live precarious lives. Not the average middle-class Korean, but a significant number of the population, still. Which is what makes the characters believable and relatable. They're very realistic.

[@kristygregg6167]

@@lsamoa no I actually agree about that and that those particular situations in the show aren’t sensationalized. It’s the same here too.

[@kristygregg6167]

@@davidospina5216 hi David

[@davidospina5216]

@@kristygregg6167 Where are you writing from?

[@HumanSagaVault]

Koreans have all the right in the world to be proud of this masterpiece. WOW! just WOW! its so damn good! PHENOMENAL SHOW!

[@d15z1sux]

I like how they haven't picked typical good looking actors. Also how human behaviour in different situations is explored. The rich vs poor, in how it's a game of life and death for the poor and just a form of entertainment for the elite.

[@elucified]

Interesting how conditioned the world is to westernized standards of beauty that you'd say they picked an average-looking cast...

[@d15z1sux]

@@elucified well they aren't typically good looking in Asia either. For example the protagonist and also majority of the other characters.

[@allhailthelegs]

@@elucified they said 'not typical looking' aka not the typical korean media portrayal of good looking people: twinky pale femboys and doll faced women. When we watched the show my partner and I both remarked that they chose a very wide range of different facial structures for the actors meaning everyone was easy to identify at a glance. It can be hard when there's a big cast of people with similar hairstyles/face structures to follow who is who sometimes.

[@elucified]

@@allhailthelegs ...man, "twinky" "femboys"?? do you want to rephrase using less rude terms maybe?? unless you're a member of the LGBTQIA+ I guess, tone doesn't come across through text. That aside, I don't disagree with your points and agree that I enjoyed the variety of faces of the cast. I would just say that "good-looking" is a subjective opinion.

[@taiyonatiare7918]

@@elucified what are you talking about? Most of the cast is not Korean beauty standards either. They’re not white as a ghost, super thin, v jawline etc. These people are all in debt, the last thing they’d be doing is caring about their appearance

[@sugakookies8063]

Hm, I found it interesting that some people seemed almost “worried” that others think this would reflect Korean culture. I don’t know if it’s just because I’ve seen a lot of Korean media, but I saw this show as more of a reflection of humanity itself. When almost all the participants came back to play, I wasn’t even surprised - that’s what human greed is like and I think it was portrayed very accurately. Also, side note - if you’re looking for good Korean tv shows/movies that are kinda like this (with a theme of horror almost, or disaster), then I’d recommend: sweet home, train to busan, kingdom (and it’s movie prequel), strangers from hell, Pandora, and the flu. Those are some really good ones😋

[@lsamoa]

Not greed: desperation. You won't have understood the series at all if you missed that part.

[@shutupsherry8826]

@@lsamoa thank you for this. you are completely right.

[@thitnsa7554]

As Koreans, it is true that Koreans are critical of their works. They want a more perfect and better work. This is a culture that can only be seen in Korea that requires perfection in any field, so there are many bad things, but it is also a stepping stone for making good works such as squid games.

[@Ffoo_ffighter]

This is why Korea is best at league of legends while NA is last. The only real difference between the 2 regions.

[@jenniferariesta6635]

Agree. Look what happens when critics are criticized for being critical in Hollywood. The contents become safe or uninteresting.

[@sumayyahadetunmbi4347]

I think I noticed this as well. They are very critical of their works

[@aresvtreallyadultstm7735]

also noticed that Koreans say "I'll work harder" everytime they achieve something. I mean, maybe not all Koreans think like that, but even so, it's really admirable! like as for me, I'm just going to work for a month and then rest for six months lol

[@TheDarkstar3601]

It feels like a double-edged sword.

[@meisdone7697]

As a Turkish university student (I'm studying at 5th best uni in Turkey) who tries to survive with 100$ a month, I didn't watch South Korea in Squid Game. I watched my reality. I can definitely relate to poorness. And no, I don't see a better future either.

[@jaychong12]

Your better situation in North Korea or Afghanistan though. Your still young and one day you will get a nice job in your country.

[@meisdone7697]

@@jaychong12 Thank you for enlightening me. I didn't realize that bombs aren't falling from the sky towards me like it does in Afghanistan. And since you don't know things about Turkey, how about asking Turkish people about it and not talking horseshit and comparing Turkey to Afghanistan? Yes,you are right tho if I'm lucky enough, I'll get a job (definitely not in my field bc nepotism is so high in here) and earn 250-350$ per month.

[@xe5309]

@@meisdone7697 they were trying to be positive bro

[@meisdone7697]

@@xe5309 I didn't ask for their horseshit positivity.

[@xianxiii3029]

Red light green light is literally the most universal game of them. 😂

[@Beeterfish]

Episode six was, by far, the greatest one in the history of television series.

[@Bjix]

Though I feel it isn’t as good upon rewatch because you realise that il-nam doesn’t actually die which takes away from the emotion because before it felt like Gi-hun lost the father he never had but either way, that episode is great

[@liljj2390]

With the success of squid game, the Korean entertainment diaspora has officially gone mainstream. And lots of people thought I was reaching when I said this back when Train to Busan came out and it was successful. Korea needed a boost…something so unbelievably unique. And here we are. I’m so proud of the Korean nation man. I just finished the season yesterday and now I’m watching it again. Cuddos man. CUDDOS

[@LaCréé.e]

I don't know about mainstream. Korean entertainment definitely has more worldwide appeal than other foreign countries (besides maybe Japan with manga and anime) but it's still not as casually global as American entertainment.

[@liljj2390]

@@LaCréé.e tru dat. But with this, the opening of possibilities is now endless with Korean entertainment

[@lilycha9398]

They're proving themselves year after year. I think it will be very plausible for them to overtake Hollywood at some point in time. Asian countries themselves have been performing really well compared to NA and Europe.

[@luna-mo3ol]

100%. It makes me so proud that an Asian country such as Korea is getting so much recognition in entertainment. Especially now with film and TV, people really underestimate how good Korean shows and movies can be. Now the global audience is finally starting to catch up.

[@taiyonatiare7918]

I’ve been pretty immersed in Korean culture for about 10 years now due to finding kpop in my school years. Korean food, music, skincare, makeup etc. but k dramas was always the one thing I could never get into. They were just for the most part all about love, very similar to each other and pretty predictable. I don’t like tv shows in general very much but squid game was the first show in years I’ve watched and enjoyed.

[@gisegise4564]

Mr. Sunshine 😉

[@blockpart2184]

World of the Married is pretty amazing too

[@richter4446]

Adding the underrated "Circle: Two Worlds Apart" as well

[@FruityHachi]

kdramas doesn't equal rom-coms there are other genres too like in western shows - mystery, thriller, crime, sci-fi, action etc check out Signal, Taxi Driver, Defendant, Bad Guys, Mad Dog, Vagabond, The Uncanny Counter, Mouse, Missing Noir M, Save Me, Strangers From Hell

[@matthewlake182]

I wouldn't say all dramas are predictable.. it depends. Empress Ki and Queen Seondeok were epic dramas and lots of twists that weren't exactly obvious. Both very intelligently written. I find western shows far more predictable and simple in how they're written.

[@COOGlife]

As an American I don't think it has anything to do with being a Korean series. For me it was more just being really good and well put together. I enjoyed it alot.

[@basantapandeyy]

It was a good series and the genre was kind of interesting for everyone too see expect those who hate violence and soft hearted

[@lleonim4742]

I feel as though the reason why the show became such a big hit is EXACTLY because of how uncomfortable it made us feel, at least for me it made me reflect a lot and look more closely at the people surrounding me and at their circumstances.

[@mirnamirk7028]

Yeah I didn't know what to feel at the end

[@LordYamcha]

Korean culture is only going to get even more mainstream they've created art that is popular across borders with their productions and passion

[@genocidegrand2057]

people need to know the story was based on a japanese manga

[@hummingbird6264]

@@genocidegrand2057 again???

[@genocidegrand2057]

​@Genghis Khan i'm talking using traditional game as killing game. even the don't move or die is the exact same start of the manga. coincidence?

[@genocidegrand2057]

@Genghis Khan also the hunger ga,e based on another manga too

[@yogadgsix]

They copied it from Japan. And add more West cultures on it.

[@Hardrive2677]

I just think this show nailed it with the characters. That’s so important for these type of survival stories. I became really attached to all the main characters and watching them die was really hard.

[@maniacmemes5746]

i cried when Ali and old man died

[@bts_army_forever-lb3eg]

@@maniacmemes5746 same

[@lattecreamsoda]

@@maniacmemes5746 Spoiler But when I found him in that hospital bed, I took all my tears back.

[@da12641]

I have not watch Squid Game yet even though everyone highly recommended. I did watch Kingdom though and it's probably one of the greatest film, period.

[@har5814]

Kingdom is a masterpiece.

[@YR-wz5id]

Personally, I thought Kingdom or Sweet Home had better script.

[@davidpark2990]

Yeah, different people prefer different things. Some just love everything Korean, some love just Kpop, some love just Kdramas, others hate everything Korean etc. Everyone will be different in their preferences, even us Koreans don't always watch Korean shows or watch everything Korean. We watch Western and Japanese shows too 🙂

[@yonceregulus1640]

I agree😭 especially Kingdom: Ashin of the North i mean bruh didn't expect the plot twist 😭✊ probably siding with her till the end.

[@sea7544]

100% agree with you but to be fair, horror and psychological films/ series are my genres, so there's definitely a bias there lol. However, Kingdom is a masterpiece and I'm so glad there's going to be a season 3 next year. I even made my siblings watch it and they are hooked as well! There's a new series coming out in November called Hellbound, if you haven't already, you should check out the trailer, looks like another amazing one.

[@Mass-produced]

To me it's like a more violent Hunger Games movie. I loved it 10/10.

[@user-xn9vp3xe4x]

It's way better than the Hunger Games

[@latifahqueen_]

The difference between those 2 is in SG you get money and everyone is an adult, in HG they're children 12-16 and the reward are they're lives

[@Mass-produced]

@@user-xn9vp3xe4x I didn't say either or just comparing how you have to kill others in the game.

[@Mass-produced]

@@latifahqueen_ you also get to move up in the hunger games and you get to keep your life.

[@latifahqueen_]

@@Mass-produced not always

[@parksummer6159]

드라마이기 때문에 상황이 과장하는 점이 있을뿐인데, 인터뷰에 참가한 몇분은 너무 진지하게 대답한다. ^^ 잘봤습니다.

[@blacklady3348]

1-Squid Game 2-Kingdom 3-Tunnel 4-Forgotten This my favorite Korean movie 💖

[@GDworld69]

13:35 I assure you most people around the world do not see S Korea as poor , but as a very modern society , and polite one too. SQUID Game showed me all sides of Korea and that's why I love it , the world is not judging your culture or country ❤

[@jonaskoelker]

Going by the IMF figures at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_GDP_(nominal)_per_capita: - At 2.5x the world average, the GDP/capita of South Korean is below France and Italy, and above Spain and the Baltic countries. - If South Korea doubled its GDP/capita, it would be among the 10 richest countries (between Denmark and Australia). - If South Korea halved its GDP/capita, it would be between Romania and Bulgaria. So South Korea is similar to a middle-tier European country, which is quite rich by world standards.

[@damdam396]

Koreans are smart, their answers any reason behind them are beyond my expectations.

[@oc3607]

the weebs in the comments😂😂😂 can't accept that Korea is becoming as popular as Japan. Sis Japan is not even your country and it is not a competition. I'm just happy other asian(and non asian) industries are becoming global. Y'all need to chill

[@nosaynose777]

They're too predictable

[@sambatra6162]

As popular? More like more popular. Kpop and kdramas are way more popular than jpop and jdramas

[@hadiaimanbinkhairiman9521]

Yupe you right.The weebs is are so terrible and predictible

[@inodamosa5477]

Dont be silly. One piece alone is more popular and influential than all kdramas combine.

[@codenamewa3144]

I like both countries but to be honest even though I consider both countries very bloody/violence/scatological oriented when making films/anime the truth is that the person who created Squid Game script searched for inspiration in some popular mangas with similar concepts since Japan is the "king" when it comes to portrait gore and cruelty through the animation/manga. That been said, it doesn't mean that Korea hasn't achieved a great one creating Squid Game.

[@nicolasgoldring7128]

This is one of the things I love about South Korea: Its film industry always creates so many different cinematic masterpieces. 🇰🇷🤝🇺🇸 미국에서 온 안부 인사!

[@racsito39]

This is the first Korean show I've watched. I loved it; I think in my region, Latin America, it is a hit as well.

[@Ruemir007]

I'm so happy to see more Korean media being shared worldwide

[@WeeWeeJumbo]

Thanks for these interviews--they helped me gain some insight. Love always, America

[@Ahjusshi_Brown]

I think it is possible that the portrayal of Korean society could be outdated bc the show creator wrote the show years ago. But even then, I wouldn’t think even an outdated portrayal of how your country used to be is a bad thing. It’s just social commentary in my eyes.

[@TheCarlitosps3]

Outdated? Why? The topics shown on the show are even more Alive today

[@ThatKidIan4]

@@SL-jn8cz illegal doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen 😂

[@nanananavillera3619]

@@SL-jn8cz You don't have to focus on whether it's outdated or not. As the country develops, the ratio is only adjusted. The core of this drama is social criticism. The world becomes healthier when chronic problems are brought to the surface and talked to many people. This drama is a great show.

[@alis_2323]

Yes, and also it doesn't have to be 100% realistic, where it reflects most of the realities of the country's people . It's a series, not propaganda or documentary .

[@TheCarlitosps3]

@@SL-jn8cz of course it is ilegal dude. but it stills happen everywhere in the world hahaha

[@Ratatoothie]

Just finished it last night, the ending was maddening though

[@stumpedii8639]

korea makes the best content.

[@nickb220]

binged it in like 2 days. there are really incredible korean actors.

[@solbutton1611]

We play “Red Light, Green Light” here in the states too. But I get what the dude was saying. I didn’t know about the candy game before watching the show.

[@RoxanneLavender]

We call red light green light 'what's the time Mr Wolf' here in England.

[@lawtraf8008]

@@RoxanneLavender We also play it in France too, we call it " un, deux, trois, soleil"

[@myTERAexperience]

I'm 38 but in highschool I had a few Korean friends who introduced me to K-Pop and taught me some Korean. Years later, i started watching Korean movies and fell in love. I probably watch more Korean speaking series and movies than other languages combined. Thoroughly enjoyable. I regret not learning the language. After we lost touch I forgot everything they taught me in Korean since I didn't use it.

[@MegumiHayashida]

"Red light, green light" I believe in France they call it "1,2,3 Soleil (Sun)"

[@zacardi1622]

Exactly

[@jamosss]

I hated how many bandwagons hopped onto this as if they weren't roasting kdramas the other week😭😂😂

[@LaCréé.e]

Kdramas in general aren't all that good. It's as the third girl said, always about love, love, love (and as cliché as ever) for a huge majority regardless of the setting. It gets tiring real quick.

[@Dontbemad994]

Extra curricular is decent

[@jamosss]

@@LaCréé.e watch My Fellow Citizens😌

[@Progress24.7]

How many kdramas have the option for English Audio ?

[@helloworld2784]

Maybe they're roasting those predictable lovey dovey kdramas that's often cringe? I've seen Kdramas like Vagabond, Kingdom, etc. They're in a different level. "Kdrama" is a wide category. Gotta use specific terms.

[@lukereyes9263]

When you can 'relate' to a film/series - That is when you get mentally and emotionally invested. This show is beyond the surface of just Korean games....It deals with relatable circumstances that any person has and/or had dealt with. It's a written/scripted reality show! I love the comment at 0:56 stating showing ugliness that people usually want to hide - I think anyone can agree with that statement and that is why we watch..... IT'S RELATABLE!

[@cabb1413]

Red light- green light is a game that has been played in the US for decades. It is a universal game like tug-of-war, hop scotch, and marbles.

[@kael9664]

Same, I played it a lot in Germany as a child.

[@MandyPlaysPiano]

Average Koreans on the street have amazing hair condition!

[@jeensjaams9933]

Your comment made me chuckle 😂😂😂 ig they all do have nice hair lols

[@firdaws__3257]

Their hair is the best 👌

[@yunatb3185]

very random but true :))

[@jaychong12]

You should check the street food too. I am saving money to visit South Korea soon.

[@Ffoo_ffighter]

@@firdaws__3257 I'm Korean but have had bad wavy hair LOL

[@Sempuukyaku]

I think a lot of the Koreans interviewed here don't quite understand that wealth and income inequality is a huge global issue...ESPECIALLY here in the U.S. That's why this show is so popular. Soooo many people around the world clearly relate to, understand, and are in sync with the themes that the show is trying to emphasize.

[@ganthore]

Wrong. The drama even shows those with low wealth as being the cause of their own missfortune. Bad ethics / Bad choices / Bad habits / Etc. Wealth and income inequality is not a issue. Stop worrying about how rich your friend is and start focusing on bettering yourself.

[@Sempuukyaku]

@@ganthore Spoken like a true apologist. Is the fact that there are so many services that are underfunded and underperforming due to the wealthiest not paying their fair share of taxes, lost on you? The show literally explains this when Seong Gi-Hun's mother desperately needs surgery done, but he can't have it done because he doesn't have the money...hence him needing to go back into the games. This isn't an issue in countries where the tax base is far more even-handed, so universal health care is a thing (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, etc).

[@ganthore]

@@Sempuukyaku Seong Gi-Hun drank constantly, was fired from his auto job, Gambled his savings on a failed restaurant idea, stole from his mother, used the stolen money to bet on horses, and was a terrible father. Why should society redistribute their wealth to this clown / deadbeat? Also, the Nordic countries are 99.99995% Nordish.... have tiny populations.... and have more economic freedoms than the USA.... You might as well compare Vermont to the Nordic countries (same qualities of lifestyle). Bonus info... Nordic citizens make more money in the USA and have a higher quality of life than they do in their own nations....

[@ganthore]

@brien Sure it is. Capitalism is the free trade between individuals. Poor life choices will lead to poor outcomes. Thus the bums competing in the squid games. Because they are hopelessly lost either way. Might as well gamble what little life they had on the chance at redemption. Why they returned to the game even after gaining freedom. They don't personally know of any other way. All they know are get rich quick schemes.

[@paolatorrealba8485]

@@ganthore you have good points. I don't think Capitalism was the reason for them to be in the game but their life's choices. And yes the system may not be perfect but it's better than living in countries that try to govern with socialism and end up making their country poor (i live in one) even the girl that Is from North Korea decided it was better to risk her life in South Korea than staying in the North.

[@wongfeihung8718]

Sweet Home webtoon, Parasite and Squid Game are the only pieces Korean media I've seen and they are all amazing! I want to see more 🇰🇷

[@elenashsh8866]

Watch korean show Liar Game. i think it inspired Squid Game.

[@LuxDiabolico]

I think also giving the players numbers is a great way to help foreign audiences, like in Parasite with the poor family having english names that are easier to remember.

[@swirlybun9616]

9:20 Her voice is nice. Like watching the news.

[@l759]

Lol some chinese of the comment section really like to pretend to be westerns or Japanese and repeat the same words again and again 😅Why do you still dare to come here after watching the piracy?Did your government allowed you to use vpn?Did the success of squid game crushed your fragile heart?Poor little things…😢

[@koyukiny]

That is why Chinese try so hard to steal Korean culture like Kimchi, Hanbok, Got, etc. I can go on and on about the list of things Chinese want to steal from Korea. If China envies something from other countries, they keep saying it originated from China and its originally theirs. Even Jesus is Chinese lol

[@royfablooo2810]

Honestly Things like Squid Game everybody needs to see, not all in life is full of butterflies and flowers. And Squid Games showed that Life is alot unfair than people want to unsee.

[@curateurpubliccbnsm1750]

what is squid game

[@deedferreira4211]

Do you like squid game, Squidward?

[@lemons2300]

But Sponge Game thoe

[@ajmma499]

Weve seen this in many novels nothing new

[@k1n1ami18]

the actors really made me feel like I was watching a documentary instead of a series that's how much they nailed it until the VIPs came.

[@p6h14]

Yes why the VIPs.. totally off

[@k1n1ami18]

@@p6h14 some said they were doing it that way so it could be translate it back to korean audience in proper matter but even they hate it

[@shauniek]

@@p6h14 The VIPS aren't off at all, it got me thinking about how wealthy 'elite' players in this world secretly engage in dark underworld dealings like human trafficking for their entertainment. Think about US Billionaire Jeffrey Epstein who had a private island where he took underaged girls for him and his VIP wealthy friends to abuse for their entertainment.

[@lusisa96]

Korea film industry should do more of these "risky" projects that are not about drama but other style. Sure some will be a failure but then you see some wonderful results like Squid game. Just like in France we focus way too much on comedy, and when we try something else it can be such a success- like horror movie "Grave".

[@beautifullyflawed6723]

I really enjoyed it! 👏🏽

[@koyukiny]

Guys, wait for Hellbound, another Kdrama on Netflix, which will be released in November. I saw the trailer, it looks so damn good. South Korea will keep feeding us with their creative contents on Netflix non stop!

[@lychee8939]

Korean dramas are always amazing, it never disappoint.

[@yanyanVloqs]

I haven't seen a single episode of squid game, only seen few clips on Facebook and the best things are the memes and parodies made 🤣🤣

[@andresmattos7541]

YOU ARE MISSING A MASTERPIECE.

[@sophiaisabelle01]

I guess you’ll never know how significant the old man is in Squid Game.

[@NationChosenByGod]

It is OK. The plot is just like any other survival game no matter how you look at it.

[@bryx170]

Please, watch it, you gotta watch it.

[@helloworld2784]

I'm 100% sure this person is already spoiled lmao. That's the internet.