On December 23, the Megabox COEX theater in Seoul witnessed an unusual level of security during the press screening of Netflix’s Squid Game 2, set to release globally on December 26 at 5 PM (KST). Spanning nearly eight hours, the screening showcased episodes one through seven of the highly anticipated series. The strict security protocols underscored Netflix's determination to keep plot details under wraps.

Journalists and critics attending the event were required to sign non-disclosure agreements promising not to reveal any details about the series until the official release. Their mobile phones were placed in special tamper-proof pouches with restricted camera access. This meticulous effort reflects Netflix’s commitment to preserving the suspense and surprises integral to Squid Game’s appeal.

Netflix’s reputation for maintaining stringent spoiler controls is well known within the industry. During a set tour for Squid Game 2 held in December last year, the embargo on related content lasted an unprecedented 11 months. Even the cast's press conference in August was embargoed for three months. Such measures highlight Netflix’s focus on ensuring viewers experience the story’s twists and turns firsthand.

“Anticipation and mystery are key to enhancing viewer engagement,” explained the production team. As modern media trends rely heavily on post-release buzz to attract audiences, guarding narrative surprises is critical. For instance, Harbin, a recently released film, saw its director request viewers not to disclose the identity of a spy pivotal to the plot.

In line with this philosophy, Netflix implemented extreme precautions during the production of Squid Game 2. The script was shared digitally through a secure platform to prevent leaks, and eliminated cast members were not given access to subsequent episodes. Details about new games featured in the series, a major draw for global audiences, remain undisclosed. Director Hwang Dong Hyuk has emphasized the secrecy, stating, “The games for season two are decided, but I cannot reveal anything.”

The stakes are exceptionally high for Netflix, which invested over 100 billion KRW (approximately 75 million USD) in producing Squid Game 2. As Netflix's most-watched series, with a cumulative viewership exceeding 2.2 billion hours, the series is a linchpin in the company’s strategy for driving subscription growth in the fourth quarter.

The plot of Squid Game 2 picks up with Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae), the season one champion, reentering the deadly competition to seek revenge. As Gi Hun faces off against the Front Man (Lee Byung Hun), the new season introduces fresh participants, including Im Si Wan, Kang Ha Neul, Lee Jin Wook, Park Sung Hoon, Park Gyu Young, and Yang Dong Geun.

Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com