‘Squid Game’ maker ‘shocked’ by Golden Globe nom

In the 2025 Golden Globe, Squid Game was nominated for its season two. This was a “shock” to Hwang Dong Hyuk, the maker of the hit Netflix series.

“I was shocked and surprised that it was nominated even before its release. Just being one of the six works selected feels like winning an award. I’m very satisfied with that,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.

In his shocking reaction, the director explained that he did not expect the award ceremony to honour season two because “the story isn’t complete, and the message I wanted to convey hasn’t been fully revealed; I thought it would be difficult to win an award in this state.”

“To receive such recognition, the story needs to be delivered in its entirety, and that hasn’t happened yet. So, I wasn’t expecting anything at all,” he noted.

Hwang also expressed excitement about attending the Gloden Globes this time after he boycotted last time over diversity concerns.

“During Season 1, there were overlapping issues with COVID-19 and the Golden Globes boycott over diversity concerns. I couldn’t attend the ceremony, and only actor Oh Young Soo received an award. This time, I’m happy and grateful to have the opportunity to attend,” the filmmaker shared.

Concluding his conversation, the Squid Game maker said he will aim high for season 3, “Personally, I don’t have high expectations for winning an award, but if I were to aim for something, it might be with Season 3, when the story’s conclusion is revealed.”