Why Is Squid Game Called That? The Meaning Behind Netflix’s Hit Show Title

Squid Game is named after a popular South Korean children’s game that involves strategy, agility, and physical confrontation, reflecting the show’s core themes.

The game is directly linked to the final round of the deadly competition, symbolising the brutal culmination of the series’ events.

Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk drew inspiration from his own childhood memories, making the game and its symbolic role deeply personal.

Hwang described Squid Game as the most “symbolic children’s game” representing the competitive, survivalist nature of modern society.

The series was initially titled Round Six, highlighting the six rounds of competition in the story.

Netflix executives initially worried that Squid Game wouldn’t resonate globally, as the game isn’t widely recognised outside Korea.

Despite initial doubts, Hwang convinced Netflix to retain the title, emphasizing that it captured the “essence” of the show’s message.

The title Squid Game, combined with striking visuals and artwork, helped attract viewers unfamiliar with Korean dramas.

While older Koreans recognize the game, younger generations may not, illustrating the evolving nature of traditional children’s games.

The show’s iconic symbols (circle, triangle, square) are derived from the squid diagram used in the original playground game, reinforcing its thematic importance.