1

Squid Games - A Media Analysis

Squid Games – A Media Analysis

Melanie Acosta

SOCI150

Danita Kagan

December 8th, 2023

2
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
Introduction

In the vast landscape of television, it is not uncommon for viewers to be captivated by

the surface-level entertainment of their favorite shows or movies. With the increase

phenomenon of streaming services, many platforms are introducing new TV shows and movies

having their viewers locked in for hours. Millions of people subscribe to Netflix today to watch

their favourite TV series and films, giving it an enormous viewership. These shows in general can

be educational, entertaining, and enlightening. Furthermore, filmmakers and producers craft

various stories in films to reveal societal challenges that impact the community. Often many

individuals overlook the intricate tapestry of the underlying themes and messaged imbedded in

such narratives. The South Korean thriller series "Squid Game," which has captured the

attention of viewers worldwide, is a powerful example of the depth that television programming

may reach. The show revolves around a secret tournament where 456 contestants—all of whom

are struggling financially—risk their lives to engage in a series of lethal games in an attempt to

win a $4.56 million prize. However, beneath the surface of death-defying challenges and intense

competition lies a deep investigation of human ethics, socioeconomical inequality, and the

complex mechanics of power dynamics. As viewers navigate through the twist and turns of the

game, they may unknowingly dismiss the shows profound commentary on gender, social class,

and the fragility of human connections.

Content Analysis

“Squid Game” stands out not only for its intense story line but also for its deliberate and

diverse representation of characters. The characters in the show provide a nuanced reflection of

society’s caried socio-demographic composition. In each episode the viewers develop a deeper
3
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
connection with the main characters and secondary characters in the show as they dive into

their histories and identities. The main cast features a broad spectrum of individuals all varying

from different age groups, occupations, and backgrounds. The show centrally focuses on

protagonists Seong Gi-Hun, a divorced father and indebted gambler who is invited to play a

series of children’s games for a chance of a large cash prize. In desperate need of cash, he

accepted the offer and was transported to an unknown location where he finds himself around

455 other players who are all in financial trouble. The show cleverly interweaves the stories of

the players in the deadly games, each with their own struggles and desires. Although these

characters are primarily defined by their socioeconomical level, other characteristics include

age, occupation and personal history add to the intricacy of their identities.

In terms of screen time and character prominence, there is a careful balance that allows

for the exploration of the diverse character experiences. Protagonist Seong Gi-Hun or otherwise

known as “player 456”, emerges as a central figure and is given substantial screen time to delve

into his personal struggle and moral dilemma. The show also allocates significant attention to

the secondary and peripheral characters such as player 067 and 218, providing glimpses into

their lives and motivations as in why they have joined the games. This intentional inclusivity

enhances the overall narrative, portraying the multifaceted impact of the games on a diverse

array of individuals. Although some characters have larger parts because of their crucial

responsibilities in the main story, the supporting characters are not just background characters.

Each player is given some exposure and their unique roles in the game add to the overall

dynamic. The show constantly challenges common stereotypes. For example, women actively

participate in the harsh challenges with the same determination as their male counterparts,
4
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
rather than being restricted to typical supporting roles. In fact, there is an equal number of

women and men represented in the show. The representation extends beyond gender,

incorporating characters from various age groups and backgrounds, each navigating the games

with their unique perspectives. The shows attention is not evenly distributed across all socio-

demographic elements. The focus remains primarily on the financial struggles and the pursuit of

survival, less emphasis on exploring aspects like sexuality or discussions of race and ethnicity.

Whether on purpose or not, these omissions highlight the thoughtful decisions the writers took

in determining the overall theme of “Squid Game”.

Squid Game narrates the tale of a variety of kids games played in South Korea that are

combined into a game of life and death by an elderly man who wishes to spend his riches before

he passes away. Those from lower socioeconomic class communities are the targets set by the

game implementers to participate in this game as they all have a significant financial issue.

Initially all players do not have a detailed explanation of what is expected, they were only told

that winning the game means leaving with a valuable cash prize. However, after uncovering the

reality of the game, many players wanted to leave right away due to fear of dying. “Squid

Game” unveils a triad of interconnected themes, prominently featuring power, dehumanization,

and social inequality as the pillars of this dark narrative. Power is heavily explored throughout

the series; as the characters are subject to the whims of those in control, showcasing the

inherent dangers of concentrated power. Exemplified by the enigmatic Front Man and the

unseen architects who orchestrate the games; these masked enforcers symbolize the faceless

power structures that exploit the vulnerable. In Brym Robert’s SOC+ textbook, he describes

power coming from those with greater wealth. He uses an example of how wealth can buy
5
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
political influence and has a greater chance of changing laws due to the favor of polices (Brym,

2022). You can see the imbalance of power throughout the show as viewers have a glimpse of

the lives of the “VIP’s”, those with greater wealth who would come and watch the games in a

luxurious location surrounded by food while placing bets on the players. While the players,

those with low income and wealth are fighting for their lives to survive such games not knowing

those of higher power are in control.

The dehumanization of the participants for the entertainment of the wealthy is a

recurring theme as well. The show questions morality and the value of human life when pitted

against financial gain. First, the dehumanization of the participants is observed when they are

assigned numbers instead of names. This practice reinforces the notion that they are

expendable entities, stripped of their individual identities and reduced to numerical labels.

Those in control in this case the “VIP’s” see the players not as individuals with lives, but as

pawns in their games. The enforcers who oversee the games wear emotionless, face concealing

masks. This visual representation depersonalizes them, symbolizing the dehumanizing effect of

authority and power. Looking at sociological theories, conflict theory is portrayed in such

scenario. According to conflict theory, social and economic structures serve as weapons in

conflicts between groups or classes, preserving inequality and the ruling class's hegemony

(Brym, 2022). This is evident in the stark contrast between the wealthy elite orchestrating the

games, and the impoverished participants forced to compete. The players financial struggles

and ruthless pursuit of material wealth become a metaphor for the systemic inequalities that

shape our society. The show highlights the power imbalances, exploitation and inherent conflict

arising from economical disparities. The games become a literal battleground, emphasizing the
6
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
societal conflicts inherent in these class divisions. “Squid Game" highlights the harsh effects of

societal inequity and shows the extent people would go to survive in a system that

fundamentally diminishes their humanity.

In Squid Game, the theme of friendship and betrayal serve an important role when

analyzing sociological theories, particularly within the context of the deadly competition. The

show explores the complexities of having human relationships focusing on the fragile mature of

trust and the impact of the competition on alliances. The friendship in the games is tested,

often leading to a form of betrayal in the pursuit of survival. The relationship between Seong Gi-

Hun (Player 456) and Cho Sang-Woo (Player 218) illustrate the moral dilemmas faced when

personal survival is at stake. Friendships among the players can be analyzed as forms of social

transactions where individuals weigh the cost and benefit of having alliances. Simultaneously,

the show delves into symbolic interactionism by portraying the evolving dynamics of trust and

betrayal among participants. For instance, the glass bridge game showcases the fragility of

alliances and the speed with which trust can be broken. The prevalence of betrays in the show

connects with conflict theory, emphasizing the inherent competition for resources in society

marked by socio-economic disparities.

When analyzing the shows gender roles, it challenges traditional roles by offering

complex depiction of gender dynamics. The show presents a portrayal of gender roles, offering

an intriguing lens through which is examined by the feminist theory. Feminist theory

investigates the structure of gender as well as gender inequality in relationships (Brym, 2022).

The show highlights the larger patriarchal institutions that have an impact on the lives of both

male and female players, even as it challenged some traditional gender norms by showcasing
7
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
strong and resilient female characters actively taking part in the deadly games. These women

display physical prowess, strategic thinking, and resilience equal to their male peers, defying

stereotypical expectations. The show, nevertheless, addresses the larger effects of gender

within society institutions rather than solely highlighting empowerment. Parts of the show

highlights gender injustice an example of this can be seen in the “Tug of war” scene in the show.

Player’s cheat and discover the next game being “tug of war”, knowing that when asked to

choose their team members the players only choose men and those who appear strong leaving

the women alone. Because of this many women who do not know anything regarding the game

become easy targets allowing the male players to get closer to the cash prize. The difficulties

encountered by female characters in the games are not isolated from their gender; rather, they

are closely related to the weaknesses and societal expectations that women must deal with

even in dire situations.

Effects on The Audience

Repeated or frequent viewing of shows like “Squid Game” can potentially have a

profound social consequence, given the intense and emotionally charged nature of the series.

The show’s graphic depiction of violence, moral issues and societal decal desensitize viewers to

extreme circumstances and normalize brutality as a means of entertainment. The exploration of

dehumanization, power imbalance, consequences of sociological discussions and activism

surround societal injustices. Frequent exposure to such material may cause viewers to become

discouraged or desensitized, which could affect their ability to respond empathetically (Letak,

2022). The show's themes of survival and betrayal may have an impact on interpersonal

relationships and encourage discussions about trust and cooperation, but they may also instill
8
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
fear or suspicion. Overall, the social consequences of frequent viewing of movies, TV shows or

even books based on dystopian worlds, would likely vary around individuals impacting

perspectives on societal issues, moral dilemmas, and interpersonal dynamics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Squid Game” the South Korean Netflix show stands as a multifaceted cultural

phenomenon that transcend conventional boundaries. The series challenges viewers to

confront the harsh truths of power, dehumanization, socioeconomical inequality and the

intricate dynamics of interpersonal relationships through its emotional storyline. The shows

portrayal of gender dynamics challenging traditional norms, while its exploration of survival

betrayal underscores the fragility of trust in extreme circumstances. Frequent exposure to the

series' serious themes might heighten public awareness of urgent issues and generate

conversations and reflections on structural injustices when viewers engage with it. On the other

hand, viewers who are sympathetic may run the risk of being desensitized to the brutality and

the hopelessness of the dystopian setting. “Squid Game” emerges not only as a gripping story

but as a sociocultural mirror inviting audiences to grapple with profound questions about

humanity, morality, and the consequence of unchecked power in the real world.
9
Squid Games - A Media Analysis
References

Brym, R. J. (2022). SOC+ (4th ed.). Cengage.

Dong-hyuk, H. (Executive Producer). (2021). Squid Game [TV series]. Netflix.

https://www.netflix.com

Letak, A. M. (2022). The promise of sociology of television: Investigating the potential of

phenomenological approaches. Sociological Forum, 37(2), 581–602.
https://doi.org/10.1111/socf.12808