What happened?
The creator of “Squid Game,” Hwang Dong-hyuk, has drawn parallels between the show’s billionaire VIP characters and real-world figures like Elon Musk. In the show’s final season, these VIPs transition from passive spectators to active participants, reflecting the real-life visibility and influence of billionaires. This evolution is inspired by rising global inequality and political unrest, particularly in South Korea.
Who does this affect?
This commentary and depiction primarily impact viewers of “Squid Game” who are engaged with its social critique and those interested in the representation of wealth and power dynamics in media. It also indirectly affects billionaires and influential figures like Elon Musk, who are seen as embodying such roles in the public’s perception. Additionally, it speaks to audiences observing and critiquing global economic disparities and political systems.
Why does this matter?
The show’s alignment of its fictional narrative with real-world figures like Elon Musk highlights growing societal concerns about concentrated wealth and power. This could influence market perceptions of billionaires and their companies, potentially affecting investor sentiment and public discourse about financial inequality. The portrayal also raises broader questions about ethics and the responsibilities of the ultra-wealthy, possibly impacting future cultural reflections and policy discussions.