starbyte team
When Squid Game premiered on Netflix in September 2021, it quickly became a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its thrilling plot, brutal survival games, and stark commentary on human desperation. The South Korean series, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, wasn’t just a fictional exploration of life-or-death competition but a mirror reflecting the harsh realities of economic inequality and societal issues that plague not only South Korea but many parts of the world.
Despite the series’ intense dramatization and dystopian nature, Squid Game draws significant inspiration from real-life events, economic crises, and cultural references that shaped its narrative. From the 2009 SsangYong Motor strike to the growing economic disparity in South Korea, Squid Game weaves together elements of reality and fiction, prompting viewers to question the systems that govern their lives.
A Reflection of Economic Struggles: The SsangYong Motor Strike
One of the most direct real-life inspirations for Squid Game is the 2009 SsangYong Motor strike. This infamous labor strike occurred when SsangYong Motor, one of South Korea’s leading automobile manufacturers, announced the layoff of more than 2,600 workers. The decision sparked outrage among employees, leading to protests and an occupation of the company’s Pyeongtaek factory.
For nearly 77 days, workers barricaded themselves inside the factory, demanding the reversal of the layoffs. The South Korean government responded by deploying riot police equipped with tasers and tear gas, resulting in violent clashes. Some protestors were severely injured, while others faced long-term financial struggles after losing their jobs.
The SsangYong Motor strike became a significant national issue, exposing the harsh treatment of laborers and the fragile state of workers’ rights. Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creator of Squid Game, cited this strike as a major influence on the story of Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae)—a character who, like many of the laid-off workers, experiences financial ruin and turns to dangerous measures in a desperate bid for survival.
In an interview, Hwang explained that the strike, along with his personal experiences during the 2008 global financial crisis, heavily shaped the narrative. “I wanted to create a story that reflects the economic struggles of ordinary people and how far they are willing to go to escape debt,” he said.
The Dark Side of Capitalism: A Universal Theme
At its core, Squid Game serves as a critique of extreme capitalism and the glaring wealth disparity prevalent in modern societies. South Korea, despite its technological advancements and rapid economic growth, grapples with one of the highest rates of household debt in the world. The series mirrors this reality by showcasing contestants burdened by crushing debts, gambling losses, and failed business ventures.
In Squid Game, the fictional contestants are lured into a deadly competition by the promise of a ₩45.6 billion cash prize, symbolizing the extreme measures people take to escape financial despair. This concept, while fictional, resonates globally as individuals across different countries face mounting economic pressures, predatory loan systems, and widening income gaps.
The portrayal of the wealthy elite who sponsor and bet on the games reflects the exploitative nature of capitalist societies, where the rich often profit at the expense of the underprivileged. The masked “VIPs” in the series represent powerful individuals who view the suffering of the poor as a form of entertainment—an allegory for systemic inequalities that persist in real life.
Cultural References: The Haunting Presence of Young-hee
Another layer of Squid Game’s authenticity lies in its incorporation of Korean cultural references. One of the most iconic elements of the series is the giant doll Young-hee from the «Red Light, Green Light» game. Young-hee’s haunting, robotic presence became a symbol of the show’s brutal nature.
Interestingly, the doll is based on a character frequently found in Korean school textbooks from the 1970s and 80s. This figure, often depicted alongside a boy named Chul-soo, was used to teach children good manners and social values. By transforming this innocent educational figure into a harbinger of death, Squid Game evokes a sense of nostalgia mixed with terror, blending childhood memories with the harsh realities of adulthood.
The use of such culturally specific symbols adds authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative, while simultaneously offering international audiences a glimpse into Korean culture.
The Global Relevance of Squid Game
While Squid Game is deeply rooted in South Korean socio-economic issues, its themes are universally relatable. Around the world, people face economic instability, job insecurity, and debt, making the series resonate with viewers across different cultures and backgrounds.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these inequalities, with millions losing their jobs and small businesses closing down. This context amplified the series’ impact, as audiences connected with the characters’ struggles on a personal level.
In regions like the United States, where student debt and healthcare costs continue to rise, or countries like India, where economic disparity is stark, Squid Game reflects the precarious nature of financial security and the lengths to which people might go to survive.
Real-Life Squid Game Events
The immense popularity of Squid Game led to real-life events and competitions inspired by the show. In Abu Dhabi, a non-lethal version of the games was organized, allowing participants to experience the thrill of the competition without the life-threatening consequences.
Similarly, Netflix announced a reality show titled Squid Game: The Challenge, where contestants compete for a grand cash prize by participating in games modeled after the series. This demonstrates the show’s cultural impact and how its fictional premise has transcended entertainment to influence real-world activities.
Conclusion
While Squid Game is undeniably fictional, its roots are deeply embedded in real-life events, economic struggles, and societal issues. By drawing from the 2009 SsangYong Motor strike, highlighting capitalist exploitation, and incorporating Korean cultural elements, the series provides a stark commentary on human desperation and social inequality.
Its success lies not only in its suspenseful narrative but also in its ability to reflect the real-life anxieties faced by millions around the world. As viewers await the next season, Squid Game remains a powerful reminder of the socio-economic structures that shape modern life, urging audiences to question and reflect on the inequalities that persist in their own societies.
