By now, viewers everywhere have all been on the “Squid Game” bandwagon; whether it’s participating in viral TikTok trends or cosplaying as the characters for costume parties, the Netflix hit series has taken the world by storm. Recently, at the 28th Screen Actors Guild Awards, “Squid Game” has reached a new height of recognition as the first foreign-language series to win multiple awards.
Not only did the show take home Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Comedy or Drama series, actor Lee Jung-Jae won Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama and actress Jung Ho-Yeon won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama. Both individuals exhibited surprise and joy at the announcement, as they made their acceptance speeches.
“Thank you, SAG Awards,” Lee said graciously, “and thank you to the global audience for all of your love for ‘Squid Game.’ Thank you ‘Squid Game’ team.”
Jung Ho-Yeon tearfully stepped up to the podium, absolutely floored by the results. “First and foremost, thank you so much. I have sat many times watching the actors in front of me through a screen dreaming of becoming an actress myself. The fact that I am standing in this position today is such an honor to me,” she said before concluding with, “I love you ‘Squid Game’ team!”
Given the surge of popularity the series garnered late last year, the results didn’t come as a surprise to many. E! News reported that as of October 28, 2021, the Netflix show landed at the top of streaming rankings as it was streamed over 3 billion minutes over the course of a week. This is an amazing feat, considering that this beat out a record that was previously held by widely popular shows such as “Bridgerton.”
Following Bong Joon-Ho’s “Parasite” as another Korean title to win a SAG award, “Squid Game” is expected to continue to garner more positive attention as it was recently confirmed by director Hwang Dong-Hyuk that there would be a second season. Although there is no official release date, we can hopefully expect the series’ continuation on small screens soon. Lee Jung-Jae himself has even stated to PEOPLE, “A second season has become inevitable in a way . . . we can’t not do one now, because we’ve received so much love all across the world.”
The success of “Squid Game” has especially resonated with South Koreans as the plot deeply reflects on the ongoing trials and tribulations of the country’s socioeconomic divides. Many of the characters have ended up in a literal life-or-death predicament due to their desperation to survive in a society that can often promote putting financial gain over humanity. However, such issues aren’t limited to falling into the hands of South Korean residents. People all around the world found themselves as victims of capitalism, which may be why the series has been so well-received on a global scale.
JULIE Kim
Asia Journal
