If you haven’t heard of Squid Game, you might be living under a rock. The South Korean TV show became an international sensation in 2021, and for good reason. With its unique blend of humor, action, and suspense, it kept audiences glued to their screens for hours. But what about the money behind the scenes? How much did the original Squid Game make? In this article, we’ll delve into the financial side of one of the most successful TV shows in recent years.
First, let’s take a look at the production budget for Squid Game. According to Variety, the show was filmed on location in South Korea and used a cast of mostly unknown actors. The production budget for the first season was estimated to be around $10 million, which is relatively low compared to other TV shows of its caliber. However, it’s important to note that this budget doesn’t include marketing or distribution costs.
Speaking of marketing and distribution, Squid Game was sold to Netflix for a reported $20 million. This is a significant amount of money, considering the show only ran for six episodes and had a relatively small cast. However, it’s also important to note that Netflix paid a premium for the rights to the show due to its popularity and cultural significance in South Korea.
Now, let’s take a look at the revenue generated by Squid Game. According to Variety, the show was watched by an estimated 118 million households worldwide in its first month on Netflix. This means that it likely generated millions of dollars in subscription fees for the streaming service. Additionally, Squid Game has been praised for its ability to attract a wide range of viewers, including those who are not typically interested in Korean dramas or TV shows.
It’s also worth noting that Squid Game has had a significant impact on the Korean entertainment industry. The show has inspired a wave of new Korean dramas and TV shows, many of which have been picked up by streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max. This has led to an influx of funding into the Korean entertainment industry, which is expected to continue in the future.
When it comes to the financial success of Squid Game, it’s important to consider the show’s cultural significance in South Korea. The show has become a cultural phenomenon in the country, with fans and critics alike praising its unique blend of humor, action, and suspense. This has led to increased interest in Korean culture and entertainment, both domestically and abroad.
Another aspect to consider is the show’s impact on the global economy. Squid Game has been credited with boosting tourism in South Korea, as fans from around the world have flocked to visit the locations used in the show. Additionally, the show has inspired a new generation of Korean entrepreneurs who are looking to capitalize on the show’s popularity by starting their own businesses related to the show or Korean culture.
In conclusion, while it’s difficult to say exactly how much money Squid Game made, it’s clear that the show was a financial success. Its relatively low production budget, combined with its high viewership and impact on the Korean entertainment industry, makes it one of the most successful TV shows in recent years. Whether you’re a fan of the show or not, there’s no denying the cultural significance of Squid Game and its impact on the world of television.
