As fans eagerly wait for the second instalment of the K-drama sensation “Squid Game,” controversies surround the show. The Netflix series remains in the news for attracting unnecessary scandals over the production schedule, actors, and working conditions. First released on the OTT network in 2021, the season 2 premiere of the fan-favourite show is set to commence late this year.
Multiple Controversies Emerge
The show that attracted immense popularity within a short time has also been made in its English version with a Hollywood cast. Netflix started teasing the return of the original Korean version with a second season starring cast members like Lee Jung Jae, Gong Yoo, and Lee Byung Hyun. However, ahead of the telecast of the explosive season, the makers are facing legal action.
Sketchy Casting
Allegedly, rapper Choi Seung Hyun, better known as TOP, is now joining the stellar cast. TOP had already faced charges like marijuana use and workplace bullying. He has even had a suspended prison sentence after which he announced a potential retirement from showbiz. Now, his return to the entertainment industry, particularly Squid Game, sparked heated debates.
Besides, the lead actor Lee Jung Jae has also been dragged into this controversy for association with TOP. Questions about casting influences made way for doubts about the production company and filmmakers. However, Netflix denied these accusations saying that casting decisions depend only on the creators.
Sexual Assault Charges
Seasoned actor O Yeong-su is currently facing sexual assault allegations, over which he could go to prison for a whole year. According to The Korea Herald, O was indicted for assaulting a theatre troupe colleague by kissing her without consent in 2017.
South Korean prosecutors now demand that O not be allowed to work in jobs with children and adolescents. Meanwhile, the 80-year-old actor has shown no remorse, maintains innocence, and denies all allegations.
Mistreatment by Filming Staff
Netizens are claiming mistreatment by Squid Game staff at an airport. Per reports, Squid Game 2 staff made remarks about ‘shooting being a privilege,’ and later the crew issued an apology for the staff member’s behaviour. This brings to mind the drunk-and-drive incident of actress Kim Sae Ron in “Bloodhounds.” Post this, Netflix edited her portions and changed the script to minimize her role in the K-drama. Going by history, we can expect some scripting changes for Squid Game 2 due to the impact of these controversies.
