Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Squid Game: A Deep Dive into its North Korean Roots

Squid Game, the hit Netflix series that has taken the world by storm, is a must-watch show that has left audiences on the edge of their seats. The dystopian thriller is set in South Korea and follows the lives of 456 financially struggling people competing in a deadly game for a cash prize.

However, what many viewers may not be aware of is the crucial North Korean connection that inspired the show's creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk. The show delves deeper into the political and social issues of South Korea and its relationship with its neighboring country, North Korea.

From the moment viewers enter the world of Squid Game, they are presented with a gripping story steeped in cultural and historical depth. The dark themes and vivid imagery create an immersive atmosphere that demands the audience's attention from start to finish.

If you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of the show's intricate storyline and how it intertwines with North Korean roots, this is the article for you. So get ready to dive headfirst into the enigmatic world of Squid Game, where nothing is quite as it seems.

"Squid Game North Korean" ~ bbaz

Introduction

The Squid Game has become a Netflix sensation since its release on September 17, 2021. It depicts the lives of 456 individuals, who are struggling to make ends meet and have been lured into a survival game with the promise of winning a vast sum of money. Though its storyline may seem fictional, there is a bitter reality lurking behind the game's scenes, which delves into the North Korean roots. This article aims to unfold Squid Game's enigmatic world by comparing it to the harsh realities of North Korea.

The System in Squid Game vs. the North Korean Regime

The North Korean regime and Squid Game have different systems, but they share one unfortunate trait: a hierarchy of power that exploits those who are weak. In Squid Game, the 'players' are made to wear color-coded jumpsuits that segregate them by class. The authority figure, Song Gi-hun, follows the instructions of those higher up in the hierarchy, who feed off those in lower social classes.

In North Korea, Kim Jong-un is the topmost authority, alongside their Military Commission. Much like the Squid Game's hierarchy, North Koreans are divided by social class, with all benefits going to Party members and high officials while ordinary workers receive no benefits. The regime's food distribution also mirrors what we see in Squid Game. North Korean citizens depend entirely on the government for their sustenance, much like the players of Squid Game, whose only access to food is through the snacks that are distributed periodically within the playing arena.

Violence in Squid Game and North Korea

Both Squid Game and North Korea employ torture and violence as a means of control. A prime example of this is in Squid Game's 'Red Light Green Light' round, wherein every player who moves after the robot doll 'catches' them gets shot to death. In North Korea, labor camps are set up to hold those who commit crimes against the state or speak out against the regime. These labor camps have become a death sentence for many individuals who are subjected to physical and emotional abuse.

Propaganda in Squid Game and North Korea

Squid Game makes use of propaganda through its embedded cast members, who appear to influence the contestants and players through their words and actions. Notably, there is an influential character named Ali, who encourages his comrades to choose the shape that he believes is the protagonist (the circle). This manipulation is similar to what is done in North Korea through its propaganda machinery. The North Korean regime employs the personality cult of their leaders, with elaborate murals and statues depicting Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-un that borderline on worshipful reverence.

Honoring the Dead in Squid Game and North Korea

The Squid Game's fifth round is particularly devastating as it involves the loss of another player and the ceremony of honoring the dead. The show zooms in on a fancy marbled alter that has photographs of every contestant who has died up to that point, suggesting a reverence for the dead. Meanwhile, in North Korea, the mourning process is analogous to the world of Squid Game. It is customary for families to erect elaborate tombs for their deceased loved ones so that they can honor them and pay their respects.

Clothing and Uniformity in Squid Game and North Korea

In Squid Game, everyone wears the same jumpsuits from Episode 1 onwards, with no difference between the rich and the poor. These uniform outfits signify the repression of individuality, which is used as a tool by the Squid Game's directors to silence the contestants' voices. North Korea also imposes a particular clothing style, with most citizens expected to wear a jacket and trousers every day, irrespective of the temperatures outdoors. This dress code, too, represents an attempt at maintaining uniformity and enforcing a lack of distinctiveness.

Religion in Squid Game and North Korea

Squid Game does not depict any religious beliefs or practices. Nevertheless, it demonstrates how people can slowly succumb to depravity and unpredictability in the face of their challenges. On the other hand, North Korea has no religious freedom whatsoever. North Korean citizens who are found to be practicing religion are severely punished, and there have been reports of public executions for such offenses.

Education in Squid Game and North Korea

Both Squid Game and North Korea have different approaches to education. In Squid Game, we do not see the contestants reflecting any substantial levels of learned knowledge, while in North Korea, the Educational Committee comprises a strict curriculum that stresses ideology over practical education.

Food Distribution in Squid Game and North Korea

The food rations in Squid Game represent how scarce basic commodities are in a society where resources are being continuously depleted. North Korea also employs ration coupons to distribute food to the majority of its population.

Conclusion

There is a lot to learn from Squid Game about social class, imperialism, and dystopian societies. Its popularity continues because it is a stark reminder of the dark side of humanity, and this comparison shows that there are many parallels to it in North Korea's obdurate regime. Given that many people watched Squid Game without understanding the extent of the similarities, this article aims to provide a greater understanding of the show's origins to help people contextualize its themes in their proper setting.

Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Squid Game: A Deep Dive into its North Korean Roots

Thank you for taking the time to read our deep dive into Squid Game and its North Korean roots. We hope that our analysis has shed some light on the enigmatic world that was created in this popular Netflix show.

As we have shown, there are many influences from North Korea embedded in Squid Game, from the use of traditional Korean games to the portrayal of class struggles and societal issues. By understanding these influences, we can gain a better appreciation for the depth of the show and the commentary it makes on modern society.

We encourage you to continue exploring the world of Squid Game and its themes further. It is a fascinating topic with much to offer in terms of cultural analysis and social commentary.

People Also Ask about Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Squid Game: A Deep Dive into its North Korean Roots

1. What is Squid Game?

• Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama television series that gained global popularity on Netflix.

2. What is the plot of Squid Game?

• The plot revolves around a group of financially struggling people who participate in a mysterious survival game with high stakes and deadly consequences.

3. What are the North Korean roots of Squid Game?

• The creator of Squid Game, Hwang Dong-hyuk, was inspired by his childhood memories of growing up near the North Korean border and hearing stories of North Korean defectors.

4. What is the significance of the North Korean influence in Squid Game?

• The North Korean influence adds a layer of political commentary to the story, touching on themes such as class struggle, authoritarianism, and the divide between North and South Korea.

5. How has Squid Game impacted Korean culture?

• Squid Game has become a cultural phenomenon in South Korea, sparking discussions about social inequality and the pressure to succeed in a hyper-competitive society.

6. What is the future of Squid Game?

• While there is no official announcement yet, the success of Squid Game has led to speculation about a potential second season.

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