The remarkable journey of Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creative genius behind the global sensation Squid Game, is a story of resilience, rejection, and unwavering determination. From a struggling filmmaker in Seoul to the creator of Netflix’s most-watched series, Hwang’s ten-year odyssey is a testament to the transformative power of belief in one’s craft.
Hwang’s journey began in 2008, when he was living with his mother and selling his laptop to make ends meet. While reading manga in a café, he was inspired by stories like Battle Royale and Liar Game, sparking the idea for Squid Game that would eventually change his life.
The foundation of Squid Game was deeply rooted in Hwang’s upbringing in Ssangmun-dong, a working-class district plagued by debt and inequality. The characters in the series mirrored his own struggles and experiences, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Despite facing repeated rejection from Korean studios over the course of a decade, Hwang remained steadfast in his belief in the story’s potential. It wasn’t until Netflix expanded its Asian division in the mid-2010s that Hwang found a champion for his vision. Content officer Kim Minyoung recognized the brilliance of the script and gave Hwang the creative freedom he needed to bring his story to life.
With a modest budget of $21.4 million, production on Squid Game began in 2020. Hwang’s dedication to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, from the full-scale sets for each game to the meticulously crafted costumes imbued with hidden meanings. Despite the challenges of filming, including losing several teeth due to stress, Hwang’s vision remained unwavering.
When Squid Game premiered on Netflix on September 17, 2021, it quickly became a worldwide sensation. Dubbed in 16 languages and subtitled for global audiences, the show topped the charts in 94 countries, accumulated 1.65 billion viewing hours in just four weeks, and generated $900 million in value.
The cultural impact of Squid Game was undeniable, with its universal themes of survival and inequality resonating with audiences around the world. The show sparked viral TikTok challenges, sold-out Halloween costumes, and a plethora of brand merchandise. Studios that once rejected Hwang now sought collaborations, and Netflix pledged $2.5 billion in future Korean content.
Hwang Dong-hyuk’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of persistence, trust, and self-belief. His story teaches us that success often requires patience and resilience, and that building trust with collaborators who value your creativity can turn dreams into reality. Above all, believing in your craft—even in the face of doubt and rejection—is the key to transforming obstacles into opportunities.
Hwang’s triumph is not just a testament to his talent; it’s an inspiration to anyone striving to turn their passion into a lasting legacy. The legacy of Squid Game will undoubtedly endure, thanks to the indomitable spirit of its visionary creator.
