Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind Netflix’s phenomenon “Squid Game”, disclosed that the enigmatic VIPs in the series draw inspiration from actual oligarchs and tech billionaires. He suggests that these figures have become increasingly transparent about their influence over power dynamics.
In a recent interview with Time, Hwang elaborated on the concept behind Season 1’s masked VIPs, who were observed as desperate contestants battled to the death for monetary gain, indicating that they were designed to symbolize the unseen elite. In Season 3, the narrative takes a pivotal turn as characters shed their masks, both literally and metaphorically.
“Historically, power was often concealed from public view.” “Currently, particularly in the United States, billionaires are unabashedly demonstrating their control over the system,” Hwang stated. “The facade has been dropped.”
Hwang noted that although no character is directly modeled after a specific individual, as the narrative progressed, figures such as Elon Musk and Donald Trump began to take on characteristics reminiscent of his fictional creations. Musk has become a ubiquitous presence in today’s landscape. He possesses the qualities of a true entertainer. He remarked, “Certain VIPs bring him to mind.”
Hwang incorporated both personal experiences and significant global events, such as South Korea’s political unrest, the 2008 financial crisis, and the 2021 US Capitol riots, to inform the show’s exploration of themes related to class division, greed, and social decay.
As Season 3 approaches, Hwang asserts that his work transcends mere fiction; it serves as a reflection of reality.
