On December 9, the 2025 Golden Globe Awards (hereinafter referred to as the “Golden Globe”) announced the nominees for their 82nd ceremony, including the nomination of “Squid Game 2” for Best Television Series. The awards ceremony will be held on January 5, 2025, according to local time. This is a rare feat, considering it’s unusual for content that hasn’t been officially released to be nominated for this category.
Although the films are due to air later this year, Netflix reportedly provided the series to the Golden Globe judges early. This is an unusual move, which underlines the high expectations for the new season.
Previously, the first season of “Squid Game” earned major accolades, including three Golden Globe nominations and a historic win for Best Supporting Actor in 2022. As “Squid Game 2” competes in the same category against the winner of Emmy “Shōgun” also represents a cultural clash between Korea and Japan.
Meanwhile, at a press conference held at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul on December 9, Netflix and the “Squid Game 2” team shared insights on the upcoming season, which will officially premiere on December 26.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who previously revealed that the first season cost him six to seven teeth to produce, wryly noted: “I might lose two more teeth this time.” He added, “I want to create something that leaves a lasting impact.”
Season two expands on the social commentary introduced in season one, delving into topics like voting and cryptocurrency. Director Hwang noted that voting serves as a central motif, reflecting both the narrative and global socio-political dynamics. This season, players can choose to leave the deadly game while keeping their accumulated money, a nod to “moderate ambition.”
However, as the trailer suggests, human greed remains insatiable, prompting participants to exclaim“One more round!”
Hwang linked this to real-world scenarios, saying“The voting process in ‘Squid Game’ reflects current global events such as the US presidential election. It’s fascinating to see the voting process in ‘Squid Game 2’ in relation to current world situations.”
The gap between seasons 1 and 2 coincides with a world hit by a pandemic that has accelerated wealth inequality and class conflict. Hwang highlighted how phenomena like the cryptocurrency boom have deepened economic gaps and created a generation burdened with unmanageable debt. As a result, “Squid Game 2” introduces younger characters driven to join the deadly competition after financial ruin.
Hwang explained: “The obsession with coins has led to the concentration of wealth and blocked upward mobility. This season portrays the struggles of a younger generation who have given up on earning money through work.”
Ultimately, the director hopes the series stimulates self-reflection. “Participants chasing the prize of 45.6 billion won (about $31.9 million) reflect the reality of many. Both the game and the real world depict division and hostility. I hope this series offers an opportunity to reflect on our society.”
Source: Daum
