"Squid Game" Creator Returns for Season 2, Driven by Money Despite Health Struggles

"Squid Game" creator Hwang Dong-hyuk recently admitted that financial motivation is driving him to return for Season 2, despite the toll the first season took on his health. Hwang revealed that while filming Season 1, he lost "eight or nine" teeth due to stress, a detail he initially understated by saying six teeth had fallen out. In a new interview with the BBC, he explained that the prospect of a better payday and a chance to finish the story convinced him to revisit the high-stakes series.

Though "Squid Game" became a worldwide phenomenon and Netflix’s biggest show at the time, Hwang noted that he didn’t earn as much as many would expect, as he was paid upfront without bonuses tied to its success. Netflix, in response, stated that it provides "competitive" compensation to its creators, regardless of how a show performs.

Season 2 will see Lee Jung-jae return as Seong Gi-hun, or Player 456, who, after winning in Season 1, reenters the deadly games. Now fully aware of the horrors awaiting, Gi-hun tries to save other players, urging them to abandon the game.

Hwang acknowledged that the pressure for the next season is immense, noting that he hasn't lost any more teeth—yet. With stress still a major factor, he quipped he might "have to pull out a few more very soon." Fans can catch "Squid Game" Season 2 when it premieres on Netflix on December 26.