The South Korean Netflix series Squid Game is taking the world by storm, so much that it might become the streaming giant’s biggest hit.

This is what Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos confirmed in the Code Conference in Beverly Hills, as the show is constantly ranking high both with critics and audiences. This comes as a surprise since Netflix rarely releases its viewership ratings, which cements the scope of its success.

In an interview for Deadline, Sarandos revealed that Squid Game “could be Netflix’s biggest show ever if the early viewership results hold,” signaling the rise of South Korean popularity in the eyes of international audiences. 

With South Korean hits such as Bong Joon-Ho’s Parasite winning big both at Cannes and the Oscars last year, and K-pop music being played pretty much everywhere, Squid Game’s immense success paves the way for the further embracement of the now-ubiquitous South Korean popular culture. 

Delving into Squid Game

Squid Game is Netflix’s latest major release, becoming an instant hit with critics and viewers alike.

With a star-studded South Korean cast consisting of Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, and Train to Busan star Gong Yoo, Squid Game offers an exquisitely bloody ride for nine episodes.

The plot centers on 456 contestants facing off in a string of children’s games while vying for the ultimate prize of nearly $40 million. The only issue at hand? If you lose, you die.

Similar to international smash hits such as Japan’s Battle Royale and the US’ The Hunger Games, the suspenseful and tension-filled show has enough appeal to grab audiences' attention for the full length of its season.

The games’ origins are wrapped in layers of mystery and obscurity, leaving both audiences and in-show contestants guessing as to the hows and whys of its all.

But after all, who will win the Squid Game and take the massive cash prize?