Begin typing your search...

Squid Game director Hwang Dong Hyuk 'thanks' those who rejected his script multiple times, know why

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk opens up about the early rejections of Squid Game, sharing how the setbacks paved the way for its global success

Squid Game director Hwang Dong Hyuk 'thanks' those who rejected his script multiple times, know why

Squid Game director Hwang Dong Hyuk thanks those who rejected his script multiple times, know why
X

4 Jun 2025 1:54 PM IST

Success stories often come with quiet chapters of rejection—and Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mind behind Squid Game, isn’t shy about acknowledging his own.

In a recent appearance ahead of the highly anticipated second season of the global Netflix phenomenon, the acclaimed South Korean filmmaker took a moment to look back on the challenging journey that preceded the series’ explosive success. With surprising humility, Hwang thanked the very people and studios that turned down his concept over the years.

“If they hadn’t rejected me, I might not have refined the idea into what it eventually became,” Hwang shared during a Q&A, reflecting on the initial pushbacks he faced when trying to pitch the grim survival drama that would later capture the world’s imagination.

A Script Ahead of Its Time

Originally conceptualized in 2009, Squid Game was seen as too dark, too violent, and too unconventional for Korean TV networks and streaming platforms of the time. Despite multiple rewrites, meetings, and creative pitches, Hwang’s vision was shelved for over a decade.

But in hindsight, that delay may have been a blessing in disguise. “The world wasn’t ready,” he said, hinting at how real-world issues like economic inequality, digital alienation, and the rise of high-stakes capitalism made Squid Game eerily relevant when it finally debuted in 2021.

Global Acclaim and a New Chapter

The series quickly became Netflix’s biggest-ever debut, topping charts in over 90 countries and earning a slew of international awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Directing—making Hwang the first Asian to win in that category.

Now, with Squid Game: Season 2 set to launch later this year, Hwang seems more grounded than ever, using his platform to inspire other creators who might still be navigating rejection.

“Rejection Isn’t the End”

For aspiring storytellers, Hwang's journey is a potent reminder: rejection doesn’t mean failure—it often means evolution. “Every no brought me closer to the right yes,” he said. “And I hope others facing closed doors today remember that.”

Next Story
Share it