Squid Game: Curiosities about the 2nd Season of the series!

The long-awaited second season of Squid Game (or Round 6) has arrived, surprising fans with new twists and intriguing characters. Maintaining the same tense and gripping tone of the first season, the series has introduced new layers that make it an even richer work filled with subtle details.

For those paying close attention, Round 6 hides several curiosities that reveal creator Hwang Dong-hyuk's meticulous care for every aspect of the production.

Below, check out the best curiosities about Season 2!

A Change in the Protagonist: The Path to Madness

Gi-hun's transformation is one of the central points of the second season. The protagonist, who appeared as a lost man in the first season, is now consumed by his quest for vengeance. Series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk explained that this change was planned from the start, highlighting how the anger and pain caused by the games have entirely reshaped his personality.

The character's physical transformation, including weight loss, visually expresses this psychological and emotional breakdown.

Hidden References for K-Drama Fans

The second season of Round 6 is packed with tributes to successful K-drama productions. Sharp-eyed fans may notice subtle references to other series.

Jeon Seok-ho: The actor, known for his role in Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, makes an appearance in Round 6 as Woo-seok. One scene takes place near Dobongsan Station, the same iconic location from Strong Woman, reinforcing the connection between the productions.

Reply 1988: In Episode 5, during the famous six-legged race, Shin Hae Chul's "To You" plays in the background. The song, which is the theme of Reply 1988, serves not only as a tribute but also as a connection between Round 6 and the neighborhood of Ssangmun-dong, the setting for both productions.

The Creator's Struggles: A Difficult Journey

While the series became a worldwide phenomenon, Round 6 creator Hwang Dong-hyuk faced immense personal challenges during production. He openly discussed the physical and emotional stress, even losing teeth due to the high-pressure environment. In interviews, Hwang revealed that after the overwhelming success of the first season, he felt exhausted and wanted to step away from the project. However, commitments and audience demand kept him actively involved.

Thanos: The Rapper T.O.P from Big Bang

The second season introduced Thanos, an eccentric competitor with purple hair inspired by the Avengers villain. What many fans don't know is that the actor playing Thanos, Choi Su-Bong, is actually the famous rapper T.O.P, a former member of the group Big Bang.

T.O.P is not only a music icon but also has a career in cinema and television. His role in Round 6 marks his debut in a major project since leaving the group.

The Recruiter and His Dark Past

The introduction of the Recruiter in Season 2 brought a new layer of mystery to the plot. Responsible for manipulating victims and recruiting them in cruel ways—such as offering a choice between food and money—the Recruiter adds psychological complexity to the series.

In interviews, Hwang Dong-hyuk revealed that the Recruiter was designed as a reflection of a man consumed by self-loathing, which is expressed through his actions against others. He projects his self-hatred onto others, distancing himself from his true nature.

Suspenseful Scenes and Surprises: Big Revelations

In Season 2, Round 6 doesn't just increase the level of violence or despair but also excels in psychological suspense. The great mystery surrounding the games' organization unfolds slowly, building ever-present tension as characters reveal their motivations and secrets.

The season finale, with its major plot twist, perfectly exemplifies the show's ability to surprise audiences and leave everyone eagerly anticipating what's next.

The Soundtrack as a Character

In Round 6, music isn't just a background element—it serves as a narrative tool in its own right. Carefully chosen tracks, like Shin Hae Chul's "To You," which plays during the six-legged race, reference Reply 1988, one of Korea's most beloved series.

The blend of popular songs and classical compositions creates a unique atmosphere that heightens the tension and despair experienced by the participants.

The Power Games and Victim Manipulation

In Season 2, psychological manipulation becomes even more explicit as new characters are introduced, each with their own dramas and motivations.

The Recruiter's behavior and the way participants are recruited highlight how victims are not only driven by the desire to win but also by a desperate need for even the smallest chance of change. This psychological aspect reflects broader social issues like inequality and oppression.

Creative Journey: Writing Two Seasons Simultaneously

An interesting curiosity about Round 6 is that both the second and third seasons were written simultaneously. Hwang Dong-hyuk explained that the narrative turning point occurs in Episode 7 of Season 2, prompting him to separate the story there.

This planning meant that the two seasons were filmed back-to-back, speeding up production and ensuring that Season 3 will arrive faster—already expected in 2025.

The Post-Credits Scene and the New Game

The post-credits scene of Season 2 offered another hint of what to expect in the next season: a new giant doll named Cheol-su, who will introduce an even scarier game.

Hwang Dong-hyuk revealed that this new game will be one of the biggest surprises of Season 3, promising an even more immersive and terrifying experience for fans of the series.

Cheol-su will be the new antagonist, reminiscent of the iconic Young-hee from "Red Light, Green Light," but with a darker twist.

Season 2 of Round 6 goes beyond merely continuing the first season's story, offering a wealth of references, tributes, and deeper societal reflections. The plot continues to captivate audiences with its complex characters, intense games, and unpredictable twists.

If you're a fan of the series, prepare for more surprises and revelations in Season 3! See you next time!