It even spawned an English-language game show, "Squid Game: The Challenge," and whipped up thirst for a second season, a rarity in the world of South Korean television. In fact, there will be even a third, and final, season next year.
For "Squid Game" 2.0 to live up to the heady expectations set by its predecessor is going to be a heavy lift. After all, what the first season had going for it was a sense of surprise, a feeling that each episode offered something new. You weren't sure what show creator Hwang Dong-hyuk had in mind or where he was taking you. Now, much of "Squid Game" feels familiar -- yes, that game of red light, green light with its awful giant doll of death is back -- and the more disturbingly violent and outlandish seven-episode second season gets off to a bit of a slow start. But the show remains mostly a thrilling ride.