The global phenomenon Squid Game has once again shattered records, solidifying its dominance with the release of its second season. Already the most-watched series on Netflix before Season 2 debuted, the Korean thriller has continued to deliver staggering numbers. According to Netflix’s updated statistics for the week of 30 December to 6 January, Squid Game Season 2 topped the global charts with an additional 58.2 million views, equivalent to 417.1 million hours watched. This brings its total to an impressive 126.2 million views and 904.7 million hours viewed in just 11 days, setting a new Netflix TV record.
Premiering on 25 December after a three-year hiatus, the second season debuted with 68 million views in its first week, ranking No. 1 in all 92 countries. It quickly became the fastest title to enter Netflix’s Most Popular List, which ranks shows by cumulative views. In its second week, the season maintained its top position in 91 countries and placed in the Top 10 across all 93 Netflix territories.
Interestingly, the release of Season 2 reignited interest in the original installment, as Squid Game Season 1 returned to the charts with an additional 13.6 million views during the same week. Season 1, which debuted in 2021, holds Netflix’s top spot for non-English shows with a total of 265.2 million views in its first 91 days. Season 2 has already achieved nearly half of that in just two weeks, positioning it to overtake its predecessor soon. It has already surpassed Money Heist Season 4 as Netflix’s second most popular non-English show.
The success of Squid Game paved the way for an extended universe. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk initially envisioned only one season, but Netflix’s insistence on continuing Gi-hun’s story led to the development of Seasons 2 and 3. The upcoming third season, reportedly set to premiere on June 27, 2025, will conclude Gi-hun’s journey. Additionally, Netflix is rumoured to be exploring spin-offs, including a potential U.S. adaptation with Se7en director David Fincher, as well as prequels or character-driven stories.
Despite its massive success, the franchise faces challenges in maintaining its sharp social commentary, which has been integral to its appeal. With divisive reviews already surfacing for Season 2, the creators face the delicate task of preserving the franchise’s integrity while expanding its universe.
Both seasons of Squid Game are now available for streaming on Netflix.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
