‘Squid Game’ Director Honoured at Gotham Awards for Global Impact

TDT | Manama

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Hwang Dong-hyuk, the visionary behind Netflix's global sensation Squid Game, was awarded the prestigious Creator Tribute at the Gotham Awards in New York on Monday, in recognition of his groundbreaking contribution to television.

Accepting the award in English, Hwang described the continuing success of Squid Game as “a miracle,” reflecting on how a once-rejected Korean script became a worldwide phenomenon over 12 years. “Four years ago, when Squid Game won the Breakthrough Series Award, I called it a miracle,” Hwang said. “Standing here again tonight, I believe that miracle still continues.”

Hwang’s remarks struck a humble tone, especially when reflecting on the meaning behind the Gotham trophy. “It’s not shiny or fancy like an Emmy or an Oscar,” he said. “But it reminds us not to be blinded by the glamor of success and to carry the responsibility that comes with it.”

Actor Lee Jung-jae, who portrays the main character Seong Gi-hun, introduced Hwang during the ceremony. “What sets Squid Game apart is the depth of Director Hwang’s vision,” Lee said, praising the series for its sharp critique of inequality and human resilience beneath its thrilling exterior.

The Creator Tribute, a category introduced in 2023, honours creators who challenge the limits of television. The Gotham Awards committee described Hwang’s work as “high-stakes storytelling combined with sharp cultural commentary.”

Squid Game has earned global acclaim, including accolades from the Golden Globes, Emmys, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. The series, which portrays desperate contestants competing in deadly games for a massive cash prize, is set to conclude with its highly anticipated third season premiering on June 27.