The creator of the popular Netflix series “Squid Game,” Hwang Dong-hyuk, disclosed that he lost nine teeth due to the extreme stress of creating the series.
As reported by the BBC, the intense pressure of producing the first season, which saw more than 142 million households tuning in within the first 28 days of its 2021 debut, significantly affected his health. The show, which features contestants in dire financial straits competing in lethal children’s games for a substantial cash prize, is slated for a second season premiere on December 26 this year.
Initially hesitant about producing a follow-up due to the immense workload of the first season, Hwang was swayed by the financial benefits. “Despite the global success of the first series, I didn’t earn much. The second series offers a chance to balance that,” he stated, acknowledging that the first instalment’s narrative remains incomplete.
With most of the original characters eliminated in the first season, Hwang is tasked with developing a fresh cast and new games. The story will continue with the previous winner, Gi-hun, portrayed by Lee Jung-Jae, who is determined to dismantle the game and safeguard new participants.
The upcoming season aims to resolve unanswered questions, such as the motivations of the masked Front Man and the underlying reasons for the game. In November, Netflix also introduced a reality spin-off, “Squid Game: The Challenge,” where 456 players vie for a record $4.56 million prize in games inspired by the series.
