Why “Squid Game” Director Knew The Second Season Would Not Win A Golden Globe
Squid Game director Hwang Dong Hyuk has opened up about Season 2’s surprising nomination for the prestigious Golden Globe Awards. In a recent interview, Hwang revealed his initial disbelief and explained why he knew the show’s second season would not take home an award.
The Golden Globe Awards announced in December that Squid Game 2 was nominated for “Best Television Series – Drama” at the upcoming ceremony. This recognition came as a shock, given that the season had not even premiered yet. The series was selected after judges were given early access to the episodes.
While the nomination itself sparked excitement, Squid Game 2 ultimately did not win during the awards event held on January 5. Still, the nomination alone is considered groundbreaking, as it occurred ahead of the season’s official release on December 26.
#SquidGame's director, Hwang Dong-hyuk, and star, Lee Jung-jae, talk about the excitement they feel to be at the #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/0kxhXH7shn
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) January 6, 2025
Hwang explained that he had little hope for Season 2 to win major awards.
To be honest, I didn’t have any expectations for awards regarding Season 2 when I decided to divide it into two parts—Seasons 2 and 3.
Since the story isn’t complete and the message I wanted to convey hasn’t been fully revealed, I thought it would be difficult to win an award in this state. To receive such recognition, the story needs to be delivered in its entirety, and that hasn’t happened yet. So, I wasn’t expecting anything at all.
— Hwang Dong Hyuk
Despite his reservations, Hwang said he was deeply moved by the nomination, describing it as an unexpected honor.
I was shocked and surprised that it was nominated even before its release. Just being one of the six works selected feels like winning an award. I’m very satisfied with that.
— Hwang Dong Hyuk
Reflecting on the differences between Season 1 and Season 2’s awards journeys, Hwang shared his gratitude for being able to attend the ceremony this time. During Season 1’s groundbreaking success, he could not attend due to the Golden Globes boycott over diversity concerns. Actor O Yeong Su’s win for Best Supporting Actor back then, however, remains a historic moment.
On Sunday, O Yeong-su made history as the first Korean actor to win a Golden Globe for his role as Oh II-nam in ‘Squid Game.’ pic.twitter.com/5yHXwddR4C
— Pop Base (@PopBase) January 12, 2022
Hwang concluded by hinting at his hopes for Season 3, which he believes will deliver the full narrative he intended.
During Season 1, there were overlapping issues with COVID-19 and the Golden Globes boycott over diversity concerns. I couldn’t attend the ceremony, and only actor Oh Young Soo received an award. This time, I’m happy and grateful to have the opportunity to attend.
Personally, I don’t have high expectations for winning an award, but if I were to aim for something, it might be with Season 3, when the story’s conclusion is revealed.
— Hwang Dong Hyuk
