“Squid Game 2”: What Are Foreign Media Saying About The New Netflix Season?

The much-anticipated second season of Director Hwang DongHyeok‘s Netflix original, “Squid Game”, has finally hit screens. Streaming commenced globally on December 26th, 2024, marking the return of a series that previously captivated audiences worldwide with its intense survival games and biting social commentary. This new installment, however, offers a shorter journey with seven episodes, each varying in length from 51 to 76 minutes. Despite the reduced episode count compared to the first season, viewers can expect episodes that run slightly longer, factoring in extended ending credits.

Familiar faces like Lee JungJae, Lee ByungHun, Wi HaJun, and Gong Yoo return, bringing a wave of nostalgia from the first season. However, a brand-new cast is stepping into the spotlight, ready to risk it all for a shot at a life-changing fortune. This fresh ensemble includes Yim SiWan, Kang HaNeul, Jo YuRi, Park SungHoon, Park GyuYoung, and T.O.P, among others.

Direct Media Lab researched on the reception of the new season and here is what they have found.

 

📉 Viewership & Ratings

The legacy of “Squid Game” first season is formidable, boasting a staggering 2.2 billion viewing hours and 265.2 million views. Understandably, expectations for the second season were sky-high. However, the initial reviews signal a mixed reaction. According to Forbes, the critical acclaim has slightly diminished, with ratings dropping from an impressive 95% to 83%, and audience scores from 84% to 63%.

 

🤔 Critiques from International Media

While Season 2 maintains the visual allure and thematic depth that characterized its predecessor, foreign media have expressed reservations about its storytelling and execution:

BBC: The British broadcaster noted the season’s shorter episode count, commenting on its potential to feel monotonous due to recurrent themes of voting and gunfights. They highlighted a predictable plot twist involving character betrayal but appreciated the show’s continuation, which ends on a cliffhanger hinting at a third season.

Forbes: This publication emphasized the difficult task of living up to the viral success of Season 1. They cited the reduction in episodes as a drawback and commented on the lengthy production period of three years, which may have contributed to heightened expectations.

Variety: Known for its in-depth analyses, Variety described Season 2 as a reflection on greed and materialism, setting the stage for a thought-provoking narrative. They acknowledged the presence of shocking plot twists and anticipated a thrilling build-up to Season 3.

The New York Times: The Times praised Director Hwang DongHyuk‘s visual storytelling but criticized the stagnation in plot development. They drew parallels with themes found in “Parasite” and “Snowpiercer,” questioning whether Season 2 serves as a standalone sequel or a segment of a broader narrative.

 

🧐 The Future of “Squid Game”

Despite the lukewarm reception, discussions about a third season are already underway. Originally intended to conclude with Season 2, the series will now extend beyond its current seven-episode arc. This decision has fueled speculation and interest, leading to a resurgence in Season 1 viewership, which saw a notable jump in Netflix’s global rankings.

As the year draws to a close, many viewers are eager to catch up with Season 2, hoping that the series will once again dominate global conversations. The mixed reviews may influence initial perceptions, but the enduring allure of “Squid Game“‘s universe suggests that it still has the potential to captivate audiences anew. Let’s see if the show can reclaim its spotlight on the world stage.

Have you watched “Squid Game 2”? What did you think about the new series?