Hwang Dong-hyuk: Thanks for everybody who rejected "Squid Game" in 2009!
The special award was presented to Hwang by his lead actor Lee Jung-jae, who played Seong Gi-hun in the series. Lee described Hwang as "a storyteller with the imagination that changed the landscape of global TV."
"Beneath the thrilling tension and unforgettable visuals, there were themes of strong criticism of inequality, despair, and the resilience of humanity. What director Hwang Dong-hyuk created was not just a drama. It was a mirror reflecting our current society with clear and piercing empathetic eyes. And the world responded with 265.2 million views for Season 1," he expressed.
In his acceptance speech, Hwang thanked everyone who rejected "Squid Game" when he pitched it in 2009
"If even one person had said yes then, there would be no work as we know it today," he joked. "I am grateful to everyone who supported and believed in my vision. And I want to thank the cast and staff who have been with me throughout Seasons 1 to 3."
He also thanked Lee in his speech, saying, "Although you couldn't save the other participants, you saved this show."
Hwang did not end his speech without something to think about, as he spoke about the simplicity of the accolade, saying, "This trophy has a very simple design, is heavy, and solid. It is not a glamorous design like an Emmy or Oscar trophy. I'm not saying the 'Gotham Awards' trophy is ugly. It seems to say, 'Don't be blinded by the glamour of success.' It seems to inform me of the weight of responsibility. I will never forget and will continue to move forward."
Season 3 of "Squid Game" will be released on Netflix on 27 June.
(Photo Source: Lee Jung-jae IG, Chosun)
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