'Squid Game' Creator Reveals the Grueling Scene That Made the Entire Cast Sick in Season 2

Netflix's groundbreaking Korean series Squid Game made its highly anticipated return with Season 2 on December 26, 2024. After becoming a cultural phenomenon in 2021, fans finally got their wish for more deadly games and intense drama. However, one particular scene proved especially challenging for everyone involved in the production.

Behind the Scenes: The Sand Arena Challenge

Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk recently opened up to The Wrap about an incredibly demanding scene that tested the limits of both cast and crew. The sequence in question takes place in an enclosed arena filled with sand, where contestants must complete a series of timed tasks while divided into groups of five.

A Test of Endurance

Lee Jung-jae's character, Seong Gi-hun, finds himself once again fighting for survival in the deadly competition. This time, he's infiltrating the games with a mission to end them once and for all. The sand arena sequence features a unique dynamic where waiting contestants cheer for their teammates - a rare moment of unity in the otherwise cutthroat competition.

The Physical Toll

Front Man actor Lee Byung-hun described the scene as "the most fun but also the most exhausting." The challenging conditions became apparent as soon as groups started running through the course. "The set would completely fill with dust, making it difficult to breathe," Lee revealed.

Two Weeks of Struggle

Hwang elaborated on the grueling experience: "Everyone really got sick. As soon as I would call 'Cut,' everyone, including myself, would start coughing. The scene took over two weeks to film." This dedication to authenticity showcases the production team's commitment to maintaining the show's high standards.

Looking Forward

While Season 2 has already broken Netflix records with 68 million views in its first four days, fans are already anticipating Season 3, expected to arrive in summer or fall 2025. However, Hwang has previously expressed fatigue from the constant cycle of creation and promotion, suggesting the third season might be the series' last.