Hwang Dong-hyuk Reveals Earnings from Squid Game

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creator of the acclaimed Netflix series Squid Game, disclosed that despite the show's unprecedented success and significant revenue generation for the platform, his earnings from the first season were disappointingly low due to unfavorable contract terms. In interviews, he humorously attributed his motivation for the upcoming second season to financial compensation, stating, 'Money!' and emphasizing that the initial contract provided no royalties despite the show's massive viewership. Hwang, who faced financial struggles in his youth, reflected on how these experiences influenced the themes of the series. While he expressed excitement for the second season, which is set to premiere on December 26, 2024, he also highlighted the industry's growing concerns over creator compensation in the streaming era. Early reviews for the new season are promising, with critics praising its expansion of the original premise and higher stakes. As anticipation builds, Hwang hopes that this time his compensation will reflect the show's cultural impact and success.