According to Netflix, "Squid Game 2" has attracted 26.3 million views, becoming the third most-watched non-English program of all time on the platform.
"Squid Game 2" also earned the title of Netflix's most popular sequel, with season 1 ranking third in overall viewership, proving the series' appeal.
The new season follows Seong Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae) - who gave up on going to America to pursue his own goals related to the deadly game he won in season 1.
Despite its many achievements, the film received many negative reviews. According to Daum (Korea), "Squid Game 2" has a slow pace, few games, and lacks suspense.
The new character No Eul (Park Gyu Young) - the fugitive feels similar to the character Sae Byeok in part 1. While T.O.P's character Thanos was criticized for his awkward acting and forced rap scenes.
USA Today said, "The film is still violent but more disappointing than shocking," while The Hollywood Reporter rated "Squid Game 2" as "a complete disappointment" lacking the fun and quirky elements of the first part.
Criticism from the public, especially Korean audiences, disappointed director Hwang Dong Hyuk.
"The reviews in Korea seem to be the harshest. Every time I go home, I feel uncomfortable. I just wish there was a little more support from everyone," he said.
Revealing more about part 3 - also the final part of the survival series, Hwang Dong Hyuk said that the story will reach the depths of despair.
“I can’t share the details at this point, but I can say this: “I wanted to explore the depths of despair—where even those who still cling to the faintest glimmer of hope find it shattered.
When all hope is lost and only despair remains - what lies beyond that?
The director added that the film is currently in the final stages of production and will conclude the story of the characters and the message he wanted to convey in a complete way "in every sense".
