Netflix’s greatest strength is creating binge-worthy shows, but this fame can be a double-edged sword. In the streaming era, original stories must work harder to grab a viewer’s attention, and most series have a limited number of episodes to prove themselves. However, Netflix continues to explore new horizons to expand its binge model—most notably by including international productions like Korean dramas. Since around 2016, the streaming giant has made significant efforts to establish itself as the leading provider of bingeable K-dramas, whether through acquired titles or exclusive original series.
Unsurprisingly, Netflix’s K-dramas initially succeeded in niche demographics that already appreciated global talent, but everything changed with the release of 2021’s <em>Squid Game</em>. Loosely inspired by true events, this dystopian thriller follows a group of desperate, debt-ridden citizens who enter a mysterious competition that promises a life-changing cash prize. The catch is that contestants can only win by surviving twisted death games, backstabbing friends and foes alike, and making it to the final challenge by any means necessary to be the last player standing.
Squid Game has a captivating premise and an unforgettable hook, but expectations were low upon its premiere. Nobody could have predicted the steep influx of viewership, which climbed until Squid Game became Netflix’s most popular show of all time. Seemingly overnight, the Korean drama became a worldwide sensation, with everything from its eerie score to the eye-catching teal jumpsuits and the life-or-death game of Red Light Green Light going viral as memes, online challenges, Halloween costumes, and more. Soon enough, Squid Game became genuinely inescapable—its influence didn’t stop there.
Being a breakout hit is impressive enough, but Squid Game rewrote the rules of streaming and changed the landscape for every Korean drama that followed. Suddenly, millions of viewers were interested in similar international thrillers, and many were more open-minded about Netflix’s original K-dramas in general. Trivial details like subtitles—previously seen as barriers to success for international titles—became normalized on an unprecedented scale, helping to embrace both Korean titles and any non-English series worth watching. Yet, while Squid Game‘s legacy can be felt far and wide, its acclaim also works against it.
The Popularity of Squid Game Reflects Its Quality
Reasons for Its International Popularity
Squid Game was so widely adored that it’s unsurprising naysayers rushed to claim the series was overrated, overhyped, and not deserving of its nearly universal recognition. Whenever a title receives overwhelming praise, some dismiss it simply because it’s popular. However, enjoying Squid Game doesn’t mean one is merely following trends; this Korean drama is a true masterpiece from beginning to end.
Squid Game season 1 garnered 265.2 million views.
Admittedly, it can be exhausting when something becomes so ubiquitous that you can’t escape it. Just like the trending song on the radio or the newest culinary hotspot, however, Squid Game earned its popularity fairly—its prominence does not diminish its relevance. Initially, Squid Game gained traction because it was entertaining, shocking, and even relatable at times. Thus, its story will retain its impact regardless of how many people hear it.
Why Squid Game Remains a Must-Watch After Five Years
The Drama Has Improved With Age
If anything, Squid Game‘s story has only become more relevant since its initial release. The first season alone showcases the indomitable human spirit and how standing up for what is right will always be worthwhile—even in dire circumstances. At the same time, there are no clear heroes or villains among the contestants, reflecting what class disparity does to humanity as a whole.
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From Mindhunter to Adolescence to Baby Reindeer, the Netflix library is full of great original thriller shows just waiting to be binge-watched.
What makes Squid Game one of the best K-dramas on any streaming service is its authenticity. Despite how absurd its childish death games may seem, this K-drama never pulls its punches. The character you love most may die, the character you root for may fail, and the character you relate to may betray everyone. It’s brutal—but Squid Game is all about harsh realities wrapped in a colorful mirage of whimsy.
