Behind the Scenes of Squid Game: The Cost of Creativity
Hwang Dong-hyuk, the visionary creator behind the groundbreaking series Squid Game, has endured significant personal challenges while bringing his intense dystopian universe to life. Most notably, he has lost several teeth due to the immense stress and physical demands of producing the show’s third season.
The Surprising Toll of Filming
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Hwang shared, “I thought it was going to be manageable, but I had to pull out two more teeth during the filming of Season 3. I had already lost about eight teeth in Season 1, and now I’m waiting for these to be replaced.”
Initially, reports suggested that Hwang had lost six teeth early in the production process. However, in November 2024, he clarified that the number was actually closer to nine, highlighting just how physically and emotionally taxing the journey has been for the creator.
The Challenges of Back-to-Back Seasons
Despite the final season being somewhat less stressful than the initial one, Hwang admits that the overall workload was intense. “We had already established the universe and the storyline, which made Seasons 2 and 3 somewhat easier to develop,” he explained. “But the process of writing and filming both seasons simultaneously—almost like producing one long season—meant a much larger workload. We spent around a year shooting nonstop, which was incredibly physically demanding.”
Creative Vision and Future Projects
Looking ahead, Hwang has expressed interest in developing a Squid Game spin-off. During a recent interview at the Gotham Awards, he revealed, “If I create a spin-off, it would focus on events that occurred between Season 1 and Season 2. There was a three-year gap between those seasons, and I want to explore what the characters experienced during that time.”
Upcoming Season and Anticipation
The highly anticipated third season of Squid Game is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on June 27, 2025. Fans worldwide are eager to see how the story concludes and what new twists await within Hwang’s compelling universe.
About the Creator
Hwang Dong-hyuk continues to be recognized for his visionary storytelling and dedication to his craft. His perseverance amidst personal sacrifices underscores the passion fueling the series’ global success.
Film critic and entertainment writer Lex Briscuso contributes insights into the making of Squid Game. Follow her on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes stories.