Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind Squid Game, has been open about the toll that his overwhelming success has taken on him. The Netflix series, which captured global attention in 2021, was streamed for a staggering 1.65 billion hours within its first 28 days, becoming an instant cultural phenomenon. However, as the hype continues with Squid Game season 2 releasing in December 2024, Hwang admits that he is exhausted. In an interview with Variety, he candidly expressed that he’s “sick of ‘Squid Game’” and that the constant work of creating and promoting the show has left him drained. He even shared that he dreams of escaping to a remote island, free from the constant demands of Netflix and the entertainment industry.
This burnout isn’t surprising given the immense pressure and effort involved in creating a series that has become a global juggernaut. Hwang has been candid about the toll season 1 took on him, even revealing that his stress was so severe that he lost eight to nine of his teeth. Despite the emotional and physical toll, he explained that financial concerns played a role in his decision to continue the show. Hwang didn’t make much money from season 1 and has since been working tirelessly to ensure that season 2—and possibly season 3—lives up to the legacy of its predecessor.
This exhaustion feels relatable to many, not just creators. Hwang’s desire for a break resonates with anyone who has faced a relentless year, particularly when dealing with the challenges of rising living costs and the looming effects of the 2024 U.S. election. It’s easy to understand why a peaceful, phone-free island getaway might be exactly what someone in his position would need.
Hwang’s comments also remind me of when musicians, like Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, express frustration with their own most popular work, like “Creep.” It’s a similar sentiment—the fatigue that comes from being associated with one thing for so long, even when that thing has given you unprecedented success.
Hopefully, once Squid Game concludes with season 3, Hwang can take the rest and relaxation he deserves. For now, fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the series while contemplating their own future island vacations in 2025.