Is “Squid Game” a True Story? What to Know About the Violent South Korean Strike That Inspired Player 456’s Story

“Squid Game” Sparks Interest: A Creative Blend of Fiction and Reality

A recent hit on Netflix is the South Korean show “Squid Game,” with its third and final season captivating audiences since its release on June 27. The series delves into a dystopian world where characters face deadly challenges to win money, drawing on themes of sacrifice and financial desperation. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk shared in a June 2025 interview with The New York Times how the show resonates with viewers due to its exploration of societal pressures and competition through the lens of childhood games.

The inspiration behind the protagonist Seong Gi-hun’s backstory in “Squid Game” can be traced back to the real-life events of the Ssangyong Motor Strike in South Korea in 2009. During this tumultuous time, thousands of workers faced lay-offs and mass unemployment following the bankruptcy of a key corporation. The resulting protests and clashes with authorities lasted for 77 days, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those involved.

While “Squid Game” is not a true story, it draws on the emotional and social turmoil faced by individuals during the Ssangyong Motor Strike. Hwang’s intention in referencing this historical event was to shed light on the rapid descent into economic hardship that many ordinary people can experience. The series has struck a chord with audiences worldwide due to its portrayal of economic inequality and the lengths individuals may go to in pursuit of financial stability.

The Ssangyong Motor Strike unfolded as a response to drastic lay-offs and cuts in the workforce, leading to a prolonged standoff between workers and management. The intense clashes between protestors and authorities highlighted the human cost of economic turmoil, with some individuals facing dire consequences for their involvement in the strike. The aftermath of the events saw tragic outcomes, including loss of life and severe financial hardships for the workers and their families.

The parallels between the Ssangyong Motor Strike and the fictional challenges faced by characters in “Squid Game” are evident throughout the series. The struggles, betrayals, and desperate choices depicted in the show mirror the harsh realities experienced by those involved in the real-life strike. Elements of trust, survival, and sacrifice play out in both narratives, resonating with viewers who are drawn to the raw emotional and moral dilemmas presented.

Former Ssangyong Motor employees who took part in the strike have expressed mixed feelings about the portrayal of their experiences in “Squid Game.” While the show has brought global attention to their plight, some individuals have voiced disappointment in how their struggles were reduced to entertainment. The emotional and physical toll of the strike, as well as the long-lasting impact on the workers’ lives, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of economic upheaval.

Despite the critical acclaim and widespread popularity of “Squid Game,” questions remain about the impact of such stories on real-world practices and policies. The series has prompted discussions on topics such as economic inequality, labour rights, and social justice, but translating these conversations into tangible change remains a challenge. As viewers continue to engage with the show’s themes and messages, the legacy of the Ssangyong Motor Strike serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals in pursuit of justice and equality.

In conclusion, “Squid Game” stands as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between fiction and reality, shedding light on deeper societal issues through its compelling storytelling. The lasting impact of events like the Ssangyong Motor Strike echoes through the narratives of the show, prompting reflection on the human cost of economic disparities and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity.