Hwang Dong-hyuk on ‘Squid Game,’ ‘Silenced’ and Hong Kong Cinema

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind the hit series “Squid Game,” shared the journey of bringing his vision to life at the Asian Film Awards’ masterclass in Hong Kong. The initial feedback he received for the concept back in 2009 was skepticism, with many questioning the absurdity of the idea. However, Hwang persisted and continued to refine his script over the years.

The inspiration for “Squid Game” stemmed from a period of personal struggle for Hwang. Facing commercial failure with his first feature film and subsequent projects falling through, he found himself in dire financial straits. Spending time in manga cafes, he drew inspiration from survival game comics, envisioning a story about ordinary individuals participating in simple yet deadly games.

Despite facing rejection from investors and actors, Hwang held onto his script and revisited it in 2018. The changing global landscape, marked by increased competition and widening wealth gaps, made the story of “Squid Game” more relevant than ever. The emergence of Netflix Korea provided the platform for Hwang to reach a global audience with his unique storytelling.

Expanding the original screenplay into an eight-hour series allowed Hwang to delve deeper into character backstories and develop key figures like Player 001, adding emotional depth to the narrative. The choice of games in the series was also tailored for international audiences, with culturally universal concepts replacing specific Korean references.

The production design of “Squid Game” reflected a deliberate choice to juxtapose the colorful, childlike aesthetic of the games with the horror of the events unfolding within them. Hwang emphasized the central theme of societal competitiveness and the need for collective action against systemic oppression, prompting viewers to question their perceived adversaries.

Reflecting on his filmmaking journey, Hwang shared insights into his career trajectory, from studying journalism to eventually finding his passion in filmmaking. His diverse filmography, ranging from socially impactful dramas to light-hearted comedies, showcases his versatility as a storyteller.

In closing, Hwang expressed his admiration for Hong Kong cinema, citing it as a significant influence on his generation of Korean filmmakers. He highlighted the export-oriented mindset of Korean cultural industries and the gradual shift towards catering to international audiences.

For aspiring filmmakers, Hwang emphasized the importance of storytelling over technical skills, urging them to seek inspiration from diverse sources and be prepared for the challenges of a career in the film industry. His journey with “Squid Game” serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to one’s creative vision in the face of adversity.