Completely Reborn Thanks to ‘Squid Game’ – T.O.P Takes to the Streets to Thank Director Hwang Dong-hyuk

The globally popular ‘Squid Game’ Season 3 was recently released, and many countries have launched grand promotional events. Last weekend, Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, and director Hwang Dong-hyuk appeared together on the streets of Seoul, Korea. All the cast members paraded to build up hype, including T.O.P, who had not made a public appearance for a long time and happily interacted with fans.

Although fans may not be satisfied with the ending of ‘Squid Game 3’, it has not diminished the impact of the series. The parade successfully attracted 9,000 fans, stretching from Gwanghwamun all the way to Seoul Square. The event also featured a giant “Young-hee” and a large group of pink-masked guards, and during the march they carried a pink ribbon coffin just like in ‘Squid Game’.

What made this special was that the actors attending covered Seasons 1 to 3. T.O.P, who had not made a public appearance in Korea for 8 years, finally found an opportunity for rebirth, stepping back under the spotlight. He gave special thanks to the director for choosing him against all odds: “I am so grateful to be part of such a great work. I have learned a lot. I want to thank director Hwang Dong-hyuk once again, you really worked hard.”

Hwang Dong-hyuk Responds to the Tragic Ending

‘Squid Game 3’s tragic ending sparked heated discussion. On June 30, Hwang Dong-hyuk was interviewed by Korean media and revealed the background of the Season 3 ending. He believes the world has become harsh and mean, and in order to keep hope and dreams alive for the younger generation, something has to be done.

Hwang Dong-hyuk said that he originally planned for a happy ending, allowing Lee Jung-jae’s character Seong Gi-hun to win the game and reunite with his daughter in the US. However, during the writing process, he witnessed growing social inequality, multiple crises related to the economy and climate, and the world becoming increasingly chaotic and difficult to live in; so, he decided to rewrite the ending. In Hwang Dong-hyuk’s narrative, Seong Gi-hun is not a hero, but an ordinary person just like everyone else. He does not have the special ability to overcome all obstacles, which made some audience members anxious. “Even so, I believe it is the majority of ordinary people who can change the world, not the few political leaders.” As for the decision to have a baby “participate,” Hwang Dong-hyuk said the younger generation is full of dreams and hope, and babies symbolize the “future” and “future generations.” They are like the only “conscience” left in the world, resonating with the original intention of creating the ‘Squid Game’ series. That’s why he chose the final direction for the story.