Unless you have been living under a rock, you couldn’t have missed the huge success of Squid Game. Why is this Korean Netflix-series such a success? Is it just a genius series, or is there more to it, and is it loaded with social criticism?
Never in recent cultural history has a tv series become such hype in such a short amount of time. Children were already onto it via TikTok, and suddenly, you could hear the child’s game ‘Annemaria Koekoek’ (internationally known as Statues or, in North America, ‘Green Light/Red light) in every conversation about the series.
Squid Game, written and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, tells the story of 456 Koreans who are deeply in debt. They join a mysterious survival game which seems to be the only chance for them to get their lives back. To win the grand prize, the players must compete against each other in a series of children's games. There is, however, a dark downside: if you lose, you don’t get to step aside; rather, you are literally eliminated -- dead as a doornail.
This evening, cultural scientist Niels Niessen and cultural psychologist Thijs Verwijmeren reflect on the success of Squid Game. Niels Niessen will talk about the popularity of the series, and he’ll make a comparison with other game films. Thijs Verwijmeren will discuss the influence of Squid Game players, their freedom of choice and their autonomy. How much psychology is involved, and are the participants really free?
After their talks, there will be a discussion where the audience will have a chance to ask questions and share their views.
Come join, and maybe we will reach the ominous number of 456 in the audience …….
Ticket reservation recommended
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NOTE: This program will not be live streamed.
SG & USE registration
Please register your participation upon arrival when attending the program on campus. You can register by scanning your student card before the start of the program at the venue.
More information about SG & USE can be found here.