Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama where financially desperate people play deadly versions of children's games for a massive cash prize. The show explores themes of inequality, class struggles, and survival. After its Netflix debut in September 2021, it became a global hit, sparking widespread conversation!
Squid Game Season 2 continues the intense, high-stakes competition with new characters and even deadlier games. For Season 2, Netflix has gone all out, turning Squid Game into a cultural phenomenon with unexpected collaborations everywhere. With the pressure to match the massive success of Season 1, they've made sure the hype doesn't die down.
From interactive experiences to fun brand partnerships, the campaign has transformed Squid Game Season 2 into more than just a show, it's become a full-blown event.
Squid Game's Original Language
Squid Game was originally filmed in Korean. It was created by South Korean filmmaker Hwang Dong-hyuk and is primarily in Korean, though it has been dubbed and subtitled in various languages for international audiences.
Response to Squid Game Season 1
When the first season of Squid Game was released on Netflix in 2021, a heated debate quickly emerged over whether to watch it with subtitles or with dubbed audio.
Fans were divided, with some arguing that the authentic experience came from hearing the original Korean dialogue, while others preferred the convenience of the dubbed version for an easier, more immersive viewing experience.
The debate sparked a wider conversation about how different viewing preferences impact the overall enjoyment and understanding of foreign-language content, especially in a series as intense and layered as Squid Game.
For instance, only Korean speakers would notice that Kang Sae-byeok, who we later learn is a North Korean defector, adjusts her North Korean accent when talking to the other players; likely as an effort to fit in and assimilate.
Let’s be honest: Watching a film or a series in a language we don’t speak means we’ll likely miss some cultural nuances, accents, puns, and local references can easily fly over our heads. But hey, that shouldn’t stop us from enjoying them! Great shows are still great, no matter the language.
In which language should I watch Squid Game?
Speaking to LADbible, Hwang Dong-hyuk weighs in whether viewers should watch the subbed or dubbed version for second season.
“I suggest for those of you out there to really get the essence of the actual actors voices and the nuances of their tones, I suggest watching it with subtitles on. I think it's going to be for a better viewing experience.”
Actor Lee Jung-jae, who portrays the iconic character Seong Gi-hun, echoed Dong-hyuk’s sentiments when asked the same question. From an actor’s perspective, Lee feels that the dubbed version doesn’t do justice to the full impact of his performance or that of his co-stars.
“I think I would rather the viewers to watch it with subtitles, because when you watch it with dubbed, then I don't think it conveys the authenticity of my performance to the fullest. You have to really listen to the voice of the actor, and the accent and the emotions and everything are really compiled into the voice of the actor. So yeah, I think it's a better way to really immerse yourself into the character and into the story.”
Lee’s comments highlight a crucial point in the debate: the authenticity of the actors' performances. Every actor’s unique voice, accent, and emotional delivery are deeply tied to their portrayal of the character. While dubbing offers convenience, it inevitably strips away the original vocal nuances that give the characters life and depth.
Who Should Watch the Subbed Version of 'Squid Game'?
If you’re someone who appreciates art in its purest form, the subbed version is the way to go. After all, it’s rare for a director or screenwriter to recommend watching something that changes their original creation; this includes sound, which is often altered in dubbing.
Hwang Dong-hyuk, in an interview with Good Morning America, was clear about how he believes people should experience his show:
"Please watch the subtitled version. If you don’t see the acting and the performance from the real actor, then you're missing out. You’re missing most of the Squid Game experience."
And he's right. The more you watch international films or TV series in their original language, the stronger the connection you feel to the story, even if you don't understand every word. That’s because tone, emotion, and the way an actor delivers each line go beyond language barriers.
Another factor to consider is that dubbing studios don’t always manage to find a voice that perfectly matches the original actor’s performance, which can lead to some awkward moments. For instance, you might hear different voice actors portraying the same character, or the same actor’s voice might sound completely different in various dubbed versions of their films.
Another issue with dubbing is that the voice work needs to sync with the original actor’s mouth movements, often requiring significant adjustments to fit the length of the dialogue. While subtitles face the same challenge, they can be displayed longer or expanded to take up more screen space if needed. Dubbing, however, doesn't have that flexibility, which often leads native speakers to point out that the dubbed version can feel unnatural or poorly synced.
When you read the subtitles, you’re not only getting the translation of the words, but you’re also hearing them in their raw, unfiltered form. Many cultural references and local idioms would be lost or altered in a dubbed version, which would ultimately change the tone and essence of the story. Subtitles allow you to experience the show in its truest form, preserving the creator's intent and the cultural depth that makes Squid Game so unique.
Watching films in their original language is also an excellent way to connect with native speakers and understand how they express themselves. It might seem like a small detail, but it's a rich cultural experience that could spark your interest in learning the language, exploring other works in that language, or even visiting the country to immerse yourself in its culture.
Take Squid Game's first game, for example. The giant assassin doll sings a children's song that’s the Korean version of "Red Light, Green Light, One, Two, Three." If you listen to the original and get curious, a quick search will reveal that the song actually references South Korea’s national flower and its cultural significance; yet another reason to experience the show in its original language.
Who Should Watch the Dubbed Version of 'Squid Game'?
If, on the other hand, you feel that you might miss some nuances due to not understanding the language or if you're more focused on the overall story than the specific performances, then watching the dubbed version shouldn't affect your experience and could be the better choice for you.
Another reason to consider the dubbed version is if you're the type of viewer who doesn’t have their eyes glued to the screen the entire time.
Many people prefer to “watch” something while multitasking, whether it’s checking their phone or keeping an eye on their kids, and tend to listen more than actually watch, only focusing on the screen when something significant happens. If this sounds like you, the dubbed version might be a better fit.
Conclusion: The Verdict on Subbed vs. Dubbed for Squid Game Season 2
Ultimately, the choice between subbed or dubbed comes down to personal preference. If you want to truly experience Squid Game the way the creators and actors intended, then the subbed version is the way to go. It allows you to hear the original performances, including the subtle emotional nuances and cultural context that make the show so impactful.
However, if convenience and ease are more important to you, the dubbed version can still offer a solid viewing experience. Just be aware that you might miss out on some of the authenticity and emotional depth that makes Squid Game so gripping.
Whatever you choose, one thing’s for sure: Season 2 is bound to be just as intense and captivating, whether you’re reading the subtitles or enjoying the dubbed version.
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