Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama series created by Hwang Dong-hyuk that took the world by storm after its release on Netflix in 2021. The show follows 456 financially desperate contestants who agree to compete in a series of deadly childhood games for a massive cash prize. Beneath its gripping suspense and brutal competition, Squid Game delivers a powerful social commentary on inequality, debt, and the lengths people will go to for survival. With its striking visuals, haunting symbolism, and layered storytelling, the series not only became a global phenomenon but also sparked conversations about capitalism, morality, and human nature.
When Squid Game dropped on Netflix, it became a global sensation almost overnight. But while millions of viewers were captivated by the deadly games and high-stakes drama, few realized just how much thought, detail, and real-world inspiration went into making the series.
From hidden clues and terrifying sets to real-life connections that will blow your mind, here are 10 surprising Squid Game facts that reveal the genius behind the show.
1. The Glass Bridge Was Actually Real (and Genuinely Scary)
One of the most nerve-wracking games in the series involved players crossing a glass stepping stone bridge. What many don’t realize is that the set was physically built using real tempered glass, just one meter above ground. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk insisted on realism so that the actors’ fear and hesitation were genuine. And it worked—what you see on screen are authentic reactions, not just acting.
2. That Creepy Red Light, Green Light Doll? It’s Real
Yes, the giant doll from the infamous first episode isn’t just a prop. It actually exists and was borrowed from a museum in Jincheon County, South Korea. After filming, the statue was returned—minus one hand, which somehow makes it even creepier. If you’re brave enough, you can still visit it in person.
3. The Phone Number Wasn’t Fake—And It Caused Real Problems
Remember the mysterious invitation card with the phone number? That number was real. After the show aired, the unsuspecting owner received thousands of prank calls and messages. The incident became such a problem that Netflix eventually had to take action to minimize the damage.
4. The Dorm Walls Were Hiding the Game Clues All Along
Throughout the show, the players sleep in a massive dormitory. Look closely, and you’ll notice something clever: the walls behind the beds are actually covered in illustrations of all the games. These clues were hidden at first but slowly revealed as players were eliminated and beds were removed. It’s a brilliant use of environmental storytelling.
5. The Dalgona Candy Trick Comes from the Director’s Childhood
The infamous dalgona candy game may have become a global trend, but for director Hwang Dong-hyuk, it was a nostalgic childhood memory. He used to play the same game growing up and even tested the candy-licking trick himself before filming to make sure it was authentic.
6. The Final Episode Uses a Real Korean News Report
In one of the show’s final scenes, a news broadcast discusses South Korea’s rising household debt. That wasn’t scripted—it was a real report. This grounded the story in reality and reinforced the show’s core theme: the brutal financial pressures many people face in modern society.
7. The Organ Harvesting Plot Was Inspired by Real Events
The subplot involving guards secretly harvesting organs might seem extreme, but it’s not entirely fictional. It was loosely based on true accounts of illegal organ trafficking, particularly in regions where economic desperation drives people to unthinkable acts. The show doesn’t shy away from these dark parallels.
8. Squid Game Was Rejected for 10 Years
Believe it or not, the concept of Squid Game was turned down by studios for over a decade. Producers thought the idea was too violent and unrealistic. It wasn’t until Netflix stepped in that the project finally got greenlit—and the rest is history.
9. The Iconic Tracksuits Were Hard to Wear
Those now-famous green tracksuits worn by contestants weren’t exactly comfortable. Made from cheap, retro-style material, they kicked up so much dust on set that many actors suffered from allergic reactions and breathing issues during filming.
10. Player 001’s True Identity Was Hinted at from the Start
Oh Il-nam, a.k.a. Player 001, seemed like just another unlucky contestant—until the final twist. But the clues were always there: his player file is mysteriously missing, he never seems desperate for money, and he instinctively knows how to win each game. On a rewatch, his hidden role becomes clear as day.
Why These Details Matter
What sets Squid Game apart isn’t just its gripping story—it’s the layers of hidden meaning, cultural depth, and psychological realism baked into every frame. From subtle set design choices to emotionally driven plot points, the show reflects the harsh realities of debt, inequality, and survival, making it far more than just a thriller.
If you haven’t watched Squid Game yet You can watch it on netflix.com Its a good show and worth watching.
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