Squid Game S2: A Shift for Multilingual & Multicultural Content

 
When Squid Game burst onto screens in September 2021, it wasn’t just a Netflix series; but a phenomenon that transcended cultural and linguistic barriers.  

The South Korean survival drama, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, quickly became a global sensation, captivating millions with its gripping narrative and complex characters. 

As we prepare for the much-anticipated second season (which is due to be released on 26^th December 2024), we’ve looked back on how the first season changed the game for multilingual and multicultural content in the entertainment industry. 

Breaking down barriers 

The breakout of South Korean pop culture within the Western world has been given the term; Hallyu, which literally translates to “Korean Wave”.   

Prior to Squid Game’s initial release, foreign-language shows often struggled to gain traction in Western markets, especially on streaming platforms, as these were overshadowed by the dominance of English-language productions. However, Squid Game shattered this norm, reaching the top of Netflix charts in multiple countries and proving that audiences are open to watching foreign content. 

“Korean content is here to stay; with Parasite, BTS and Squid Game. There is a reason why Netflix, Disney and Apple are investing so much money in Korean content… it’s going to take a big chunk of the entertainment dollar”  

• Joan MacDonald, Forbes Contributor 

Acceptance of subtitled and dubbed content 

One of the main reasons why Squid Game became so popular, and so quickly, was because viewers had the choice to watch either a dubbed version (16 different dubbed versions were created for the series), or with subtitles. 

In 2020, South Korean director, Boon Joon Ho, made an impactful statement during his acceptance speech after his movie Parasite won ‘Best Motion Picture in a Foreign Language’ at the Golden Globes: 

“Once you overcome the one-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films” 

• Boon Joon Ho, South Korean Director 

Since then, subtitles and dubbing have become more accepted on streaming platforms, with many viewers seeking out original versions of shows rather than completely relying on English adaptations.  

Language learning inspiration 

Sam Dalsimer, a spokesman for the language learning app, Duolingo, has been reported by VOA news to have commented on the impact that pop culture has on language learning around the world;  

“What happens in pop culture and media often influences trends in language and language learning. As Korean films, music and television gets more popular, more people will want to learn the language” 

• Sam Dalsimer, Duolingo 

After Squid Game’s original release, the interest in learning the Korean language became a much more desired skill. Duolingo reported a 76% increase in UK users and a 40% increase in US based users started to learn Korean within the first two weeks of Squid Game added to Netflix’s repertoire. 

Will Squid Game season 2 have the same effect? 

Squid Game season 2 will not just be a continuation of a story; but a reflection of how far the entertainment industry has come in embracing multicultural narratives. The first season opened doors for diverse voices and stories, paving the way for a new era of global storytelling.  

As we count down to the release of season 2, it’s hard not to wonder whether this will live up to the boom in which the first season created. We can only anticipate what the second season will involve, both in terms of narrative and cultural exploration – but will it live up to the first series and contribute to another ripple in the Korean wave? We’ll have to wait and see! 

Have a project of your own that requires audio dubbing or subtitling services? We’re here to help. 

To find out how we can help your business with quality dubbing, subtitling, translation, and voice over services, why not get in touch with us today?

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