🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 0 (from laksa027)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa000.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://people.com/tv/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://people.com/tv/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/","crawl_time":1775227284,"first_indexed_time":1633117749,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,people!\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/ s443","src_root_hash":"8987252745502061200","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Squid Game Cast and Everything To Know About The New Netflix Drama","meta_descriptions":["We've rounded up everything you need to know about Squid Game, the new Korean drama that's on track to be Netflix's biggest show ever. Find out about the stars, the plot and whether there will be a season 2!"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"It's not always \"all fun and games...\"\nYou probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across\nSquid Game\n, Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's\ntaken the world by storm\n.\nThe K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a $40 million cash prize. The twist? In\nSquid Game\n, the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die.\nWe've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to\ndethrone\nBridgerton\nas Netflix's\nbiggest show ever\n!\nSquid Game.\nYOUNGKYU PARK\/Netflix\nHow many episodes are in\nSquid Game\n?\nThe first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.)\nFor more on\nSquid Game\nand other top stories, listen below to\nour daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day\n.\nFans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the\nSquid Game\ntrailer\non YouTube. One fan proudly stated, \"this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever.\" Another fan wrote, \"You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably.\"\nNetflix\nWho's in the\nSquid Game\ncast?\nThe cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it.\nLee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad.\nPark Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game.\nSquid Game\nmarks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage.\nOther notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the \"old man\" in the games\n–\nalso known as player 001.\nNetflix\nAre there subtitles?\nSquid Game\noffers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word \"enjoy\" for such a nailbiting premise).\nStreamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.).\nFans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). (\nListen to Bong Joon-ho\n!)\nWhat makes\nSquid Game\nsuch a huge hit?\nNetflix released\nSquid Game\nin the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series \"entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21,\" according to\nVariety\n. In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day.\nTed Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. \"We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity,\"\nhe said at a Vox media conference\n.\nNetflix\nIs\nSquid Game\na\nreal game?\nShort answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including \"Red Light, Green Light,\" Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose.\nSquid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to\nThe Korea Herald\nthat he chose\nSquid Game\nas the title because it is the \"most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games.\" He added, \"I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So\nSquid Game\nwas a perfect name for this series.\"\nWill there be a\nSquid Game\nSeason 2?\nAlright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're \"dying\" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more).\nThe director told\nVariety\n, \"I don't have well developed plans for\nSquid Game\n2\n. It is quite tiring just thinking about it.\" He continued, \"But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors.\"\nIn the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait!\nOkay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll?\nYou should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the \"Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3\" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. (\nYou can also read Vulture's \"interview\" with her here.)","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/#main)\n\n[PEOPLE](https:\/\/people.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- [Log In](https:\/\/people.com\/authentication\/login?regSource=26075&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Ftv%2Fsquid-game-everything-you-need-to-know%2F)\n- My Account\n  - [Log Out](https:\/\/people.com\/authentication\/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Ftv%2Fsquid-game-everything-you-need-to-know%2F)\n- Magazine\n  - [Subscribe](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/)\n  - [Manage Your Subscription](https:\/\/w1.buysub.com\/servlet\/CSGateway?cds_mag_code=PPL)\n  - [Give a Gift Subscription](https:\/\/www.magazines.com\/people-magazine.html)\n  - [Get Help](https:\/\/people.com\/about-us-page-5499056#toc-contact-us)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/)\n- [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/people.com\/sweepstakes)\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/)\n\nPlease fill out this field.\n\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/people.com\/entertainment\/)\n  Entertainment\n  \n  - 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[Food](https:\/\/people.com\/food\/)\n  - [Home](https:\/\/people.com\/home\/)\n  - [Travel](https:\/\/people.com\/travel\/)\n  - [Style](https:\/\/people.com\/beauty-style\/)\n- [Royals](https:\/\/people.com\/royals\/)\n  - [British Royal Family News](https:\/\/people.com\/british-royal-family-news)\n- [Health](https:\/\/people.com\/health\/)\n- [Amazon's Spring Sale](https:\/\/people.com\/amazon-prime-day-deals-7548335)\n  - [Fashion](https:\/\/people.com\/fashion\/)\n  - [Beauty](https:\/\/people.com\/beauty\/)\n  - [Home](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping-home)\n  - [Kitchen](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping-kitchen)\n  - [Travel Products](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping-travel)\n  - [Pets](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping-pets)\n  - [Gifts](https:\/\/people.com\/gifts\/)\n  - [Sales & Deals](https:\/\/people.com\/sales-deals)\n  - [People Tested](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping\/people-tested\/)\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/)\n\n- [![Todd Bridge and Bettijo Hirschi attend Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter on September 22, 2022.]() ![Todd Bridge and Bettijo Hirschi attend Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter on September 22, 2022.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/lcgT7iN7KCCAoLA5BzjSPndc_UI=\/800x533\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Todd-Bridges-Bettijo-Hirschi-011426-6580214679d04b5ca303a950af5bcbf2.jpg) 1 Todd Bridges Files for Divorce from Bettijo B. Hirschi 3 Months After Announcing Separation](https:\/\/people.com\/todd-bridges-files-for-divorce-from-bettijo-b-hirschi-3-months-after-announcing-separation-11941923)\n- [![Parents Write Children’s Book to Raise Awareness for Daughters’ Rare, ‘One in a Million’ Genetic Condition ]() ![Parents Write Children’s Book to Raise Awareness for Daughters’ Rare, ‘One in a Million’ Genetic Condition ](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/P7N1FOk0_v2hlDbI9oi2XbixOeo=\/800x533\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Louisiana-family-raises-awareness-for-rare-genetic-disorder-040336-2b19fb84a0d04082bd8b9acc3f8853ef.jpg) 2 6-Year-Old and 10-Year-Old Sisters Lost the Ability to Move and Talk from Rare Genetic Disorder — Now Their Parents Are Spreading Awareness About It](https:\/\/people.com\/parents-raise-awareness-for-rare-genetic-condition-inad-with-new-childrens-book-11942002)\n- [![Chris Rock is all smiles seen kissing and holding hands with mysterys SoHo neighborhood. The new couple were all smiles and took selfies.]() ![Chris Rock is all smiles seen kissing and holding hands with mysterys SoHo neighborhood. The new couple were all smiles and took selfies.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/Gp-sTZSGAaipGB4j_YMayiayHwc=\/800x533\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Chris-Rock-040226-4-645f31932476401fb5f29177ac30dbfa.jpg) 3 Chris Rock Hard Launches New Relationship with a Kiss While on a Stroll](https:\/\/people.com\/chris-rock-hard-launches-relationship-with-simone-henault-11941935)\n- [![Attorney General Pam Bondi arrives for a National Day of Prayer event hosted by President Donald Trump in the Rose Garden at the White House]() ![Attorney General Pam Bondi arrives for a National Day of Prayer event hosted by President Donald Trump in the Rose Garden at the White House](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/3-3WRUGqoc6W7uYMjFGNjd-Sj9g=\/800x533\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Attorney-General-Pam-Bondi-The-White-House2-040226-6fece8c65220471e9c3bfd63ccc4608e.jpg) 4 Pam Bondi Says She Is 'Thrilled' About Job Change After Being Fired by Trump](https:\/\/people.com\/pam-bondi-speaks-out-after-being-fired-by-trump-11941691)\n\n# 'Squid Game' : Everything You Need to Know About Netflix's New Korean Drama\nWe're breaking down all the buzz on Netflix's blockbuster new series *Squid Game*, including who's in the cast, what the show's about, and everything in between\n\nBy\n\n[Skyler Caruso](https:\/\/people.com\/author\/skyler-caruso\/)\n\n![skyler caruso - people staff portraits]()\n\n![skyler caruso - people staff portraits](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/fWFDELINHRh6ZmNxYdIVFVHXfuo=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/skyler-caruso-e76bb72e7c7449ffa3aee869ff938d12.jpg)\n\n[Skyler Caruso](https:\/\/people.com\/author\/skyler-caruso\/)\n\nSkyler Caruso is a Writer and Reporter of PEOPLE Digital Entertainment. She joined PEOPLE in 2021, but has eight years of experience working in digital publishing with a focus on entertainment and pop culture news.\n\n[People Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/people.com\/editorial-policy-page-5499057)\n\nPublished on October 1, 2021 03:47PM EDT\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/_6ekiQn-_H8VpwhTRi1_Mh8G6bE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$989x339:991x341\$\/squid-game-2-1037536e57c5438d81f390b5566ac564.jpg)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/_6ekiQn-_H8VpwhTRi1_Mh8G6bE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$989x339:991x341\$\/squid-game-2-1037536e57c5438d81f390b5566ac564.jpg)\n\nCredit : YOUNGKYU PARK\/Netflix\n\nIt's not always \"all fun and games...\"\n\nYou probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across *[Squid Game](https:\/\/www.netflix.com\/title\/81040344)*, Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's [taken the world by storm](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/).\n\nThe K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a \\$40 million cash prize. The twist? In *[Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/)*, the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die.\n\nWe've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to [dethrone *Bridgerton*](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/) as Netflix's [biggest show ever](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/bridgerton-tops-netflix-show-a-teacher-tops-hulu-show\/)\\!\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/P5AWcsRnJAq5IqGdgZCV5Ejnwd8=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$404x289:406x291\$\/squid-game-3-2b6bcbeecc6447d89e5aea544a132dd1.jpg)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/P5AWcsRnJAq5IqGdgZCV5Ejnwd8=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$404x289:406x291\$\/squid-game-3-2b6bcbeecc6447d89e5aea544a132dd1.jpg)\n\nSquid Game. YOUNGKYU PARK\/Netflix\n\n**How many episodes are in *Squid Game*?**\n\nThe first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.)\n\n**For more on *Squid Game* and other top stories, listen below to [our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day](https:\/\/megaphone.link\/HSW1065075894).**\n\nFans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the *[Squid Game](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4)* [trailer](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) on YouTube. One fan proudly stated, \"this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever.\" Another fan wrote, \"You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably.\"\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/j_xgqDoNnHQw6EtiyKB6MhiTAw0=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$629x239:631x241\$\/squid-game-1-6c3bdd0aaf154c4bab25a0a0f6ae76c7.jpg)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/j_xgqDoNnHQw6EtiyKB6MhiTAw0=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$629x239:631x241\$\/squid-game-1-6c3bdd0aaf154c4bab25a0a0f6ae76c7.jpg)\n\nNetflix\n\n**Who's in the *Squid Game* cast?**\n\nThe cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it.\n\nLee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad.\n\nPark Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game.\n\n*Squid Game* marks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage.\n\nOther notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the \"old man\" in the games *–* also known as player 001.\n\n[**Bridgerton Season 2: The Man in the High Castle's Rupert Evans Cast as Late Family Patriarch**](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/bridgerton-season-2-rupert-evans-cast-as-edmund-bridgerton\/)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/Hfs1c7Wnwdi13_1MRsDvpbxhh8I=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$869x249:871x251\$\/squid-game-2-b405ee20c3544f509764d7fd5a78f8cb.jpg)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/Hfs1c7Wnwdi13_1MRsDvpbxhh8I=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$869x249:871x251\$\/squid-game-2-b405ee20c3544f509764d7fd5a78f8cb.jpg)\n\nNetflix\n\n**Are there subtitles?**\n\n*Squid Game* offers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word \"enjoy\" for such a nailbiting premise).\n\nStreamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.).\n\nFans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). ([Listen to Bong Joon-ho](https:\/\/people.com\/tag\/golden-globe-awards\/?slide=7547841)!)\n\n**What makes *Squid Game* such a huge hit?**\n\nNetflix released *Squid Game* in the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series \"entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21,\" according to *[Variety](https:\/\/variety.com\/2021\/global\/asia\/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355\/?cx_testId=49&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=5#cxrecs_s)*. In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day.\n\nTed Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. \"We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity,\" [he said at a Vox media conference](https:\/\/news.yahoo.com\/squid-game-netflix-installed-replica-153313691.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe%20did%20not%20see%20that,of%20release%20is%20%E2%80%9CBridgerton.%E2%80%9D).\n\n[***Squid Game*: Korean Survival Drama Could Dethrone *Bridgerton* as Netflix's Biggest Show Ever**](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/byxKVHmmIRfmJkTQ_UCuG4i-oX8=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$689x319:691x321\$\/squid-game-3-af332207ad4e4d9ca1bd4b1e5df70008.jpg)\n\n![Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/byxKVHmmIRfmJkTQ_UCuG4i-oX8=\/4000x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$:focal\$689x319:691x321\$\/squid-game-3-af332207ad4e4d9ca1bd4b1e5df70008.jpg)\n\nNetflix\n\n**Is *Squid Game* a** **real game?**\n\nShort answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including \"Red Light, Green Light,\" Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose.\n\nSquid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to *[The Korea Herald](http:\/\/www.koreaherald.com\/view.php?ud=20210915000975)* that he chose *Squid Game* as the title because it is the \"most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games.\" He added, \"I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So *Squid Game* was a perfect name for this series.\"\n\n[*Tiger King 2* Will Premiere on Netflix in November — Check Out the Newest Sneak Peek\\!](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/tiger-king-2-release-date-november-17-netflix-tudum-sneak-peek\/)\n\n**Will there be a *Squid Game* Season 2?**\n\nAlright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're \"dying\" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more).\n\nThe director told [Variety](https:\/\/variety.com\/2021\/global\/asia\/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355\/), \"I don't have well developed plans for *Squid Game* *2*. It is quite tiring just thinking about it.\" He continued, \"But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors.\"\n\nIn the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait\\!\n\n**Okay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll?**\n\nYou should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the \"Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3\" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. ([You can also read Vulture's \"interview\" with her here.)](https:\/\/www.vulture.com\/article\/squid-game-an-interview-with-the-giant-robot-doll.html)\n\nClose\n\nRead more:\n\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/people.com\/entertainment\/)\n- [Music](https:\/\/people.com\/music\/)\n- [K-Pop](https:\/\/people.com\/k-pop)\n\nTrending Now\n\n[![V, Suga, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Jimin and J-Hope of BTS speak onstage during Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE at Pier 17](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/UeL2aD-NGJFUUI01h8_UUz4ONYA=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Spotify-BTS-SWIMSIDE-032326-1-6d3a2cd02c0e439fb8fdc81e3ef73540.jpg) ![V, Suga, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Jimin and J-Hope of BTS speak onstage during Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE at Pier 17](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/UeL2aD-NGJFUUI01h8_UUz4ONYA=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Spotify-BTS-SWIMSIDE-032326-1-6d3a2cd02c0e439fb8fdc81e3ef73540.jpg) BTS Reunite in U.S. for First Time in 4 Years at Intimate Event with 1,000 Top Spotify Listeners](https:\/\/people.com\/bts-perform-in-the-u-s-for-first-time-since-2022-at-spotify-event-for-1000-top-listeners-11932277)\n\n[Entertainment](https:\/\/people.com\/entertainment\/)\n\nMarch 24, 2026\n\n[![Kpop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey in Kpop Demon Hunters.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/fbTDF0cyU_OyL2x8C15aKJnDG6I=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/kpop-demon-hunters-081225-4-a4d5e6a6a2c24514b6be2eeff9c7738f.jpg) ![Kpop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey in Kpop Demon Hunters.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/fbTDF0cyU_OyL2x8C15aKJnDG6I=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/kpop-demon-hunters-081225-4-a4d5e6a6a2c24514b6be2eeff9c7738f.jpg) Inside the Real-Life Inspiration Behind *KPop Demon Hunters'* Oscar-Winning Song ‘Golden’](https:\/\/people.com\/kpop-demon-hunters-song-golden-real-life-inspiration-11927165)\n\n[Entertainment](https:\/\/people.com\/entertainment\/)\n\nMarch 16, 2026\n\n[![BTS attend 2021 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS - The AMAs will air live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, Nov. 21](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/zu3uF3x2Nb0_B9xLw_GYAEppY4k=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/bts-031826-3-c8b14cee8cf747bf964758b388bb07cf.jpg) ![BTS attend 2021 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS - The AMAs will air live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, Nov. 21](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/zu3uF3x2Nb0_B9xLw_GYAEppY4k=\/343x228\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/bts-031826-3-c8b14cee8cf747bf964758b388bb07cf.jpg) What Does BTS Mean? 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By Mackenzie Schmidt](https:\/\/people.com\/bts-return-to-the-tonight-show-with-2-performances-surprises-and-slippers-11934698)\n\n[![BTS Swim music video](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/B_h7zOvU6E8yjYZBoIGKQ6jBwv0=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/BTS-Swim-music-video-032026-31f3408fd73e491c95bbef0ed2b56b10.jpg) ![BTS Swim music video](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/B_h7zOvU6E8yjYZBoIGKQ6jBwv0=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/BTS-Swim-music-video-032026-31f3408fd73e491c95bbef0ed2b56b10.jpg) Lili Reinhart Dances on a Massive Ship Sailed by BTS in the K-Pop Group's Cinematic New 'SWIM' Music Video By Jack Irvin](https:\/\/people.com\/lili-reinhart-bts-new-swim-music-video-11931081)\n\n[![V, Suga, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Jimin, and J-Hope of BTS attends iHeartRadio 102.7 KIIS FM's Jingle Ball 2021 presented by Capital One at The Forum on December 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/y2BfN5nvf69Kn_mxrr6fF080BqQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/BTS-1-032026-0b942bac59094439a75511a445b3900b.jpg) ![V, Suga, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Jimin, and J-Hope of BTS attends iHeartRadio 102.7 KIIS FM's Jingle Ball 2021 presented by Capital One at The Forum on December 03, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/y2BfN5nvf69Kn_mxrr6fF080BqQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/BTS-1-032026-0b942bac59094439a75511a445b3900b.jpg) BTS Returns with *ARIRANG*, the K-Pop Group's First Album in Almost 4 Years, After Completing Mandatory Military Service By Gabrielle Rockson](https:\/\/people.com\/bts-drops-new-album-arirang-first-project-since-conclusion-of-mandatory-military-service-11930616)\n\n[![Lisa of BLACKPINK performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 22, 2023 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/uU009wtxBvgttrLInjLYARqmRag=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Blackpink-Lisa-Taylor-Swift-Singapore-030324-03-3b26e504670a4ed7878c4c0252e7b154.jpg) ![Lisa of BLACKPINK performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 22, 2023 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/uU009wtxBvgttrLInjLYARqmRag=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Blackpink-Lisa-Taylor-Swift-Singapore-030324-03-3b26e504670a4ed7878c4c0252e7b154.jpg) BLACKPINK's Lisa Becomes First K-Pop Artist to Launch a Las Vegas Residency By Ilana Kaplan](https:\/\/people.com\/blackpink-lisa-first-k-pop-artist-las-vegas-residency-11937195)\n\n[![Heeseung of ENHYPEN performs at Sahara Tent during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 19, 2025 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/1Dndz3eHQ64ZxkH8WatS6jdvPmc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Heeseung-031026-3-8a080be2a97e488f8ef92d8b84463865.jpg) ![Heeseung of ENHYPEN performs at Sahara Tent during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 19, 2025 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/1Dndz3eHQ64ZxkH8WatS6jdvPmc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Heeseung-031026-3-8a080be2a97e488f8ef92d8b84463865.jpg) Why Is Heeseung Leaving ENHYPEN? All About the K-Pop Singer's Surprising Exit By Christopher Rudolph](https:\/\/people.com\/why-is-heeseung-leaving-enhypen-11922801)\n\n[![Red Hot Chili Peppers, here guitarist Hillel Slovak, on 09.02.1988 in Munich; Flea, John Frusciante, Anthony Kiedis, and Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers are seen backstage at the 2022 MTV VMAs at Prudential Center on August 28, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/yYS-8o2WqbmutQqISUbBcT3x1bg=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Hillel-Slovak-red-hot-chili-peppers-032026-b20eda293d49451292cca217f681efac.jpg) ![Red Hot Chili Peppers, here guitarist Hillel Slovak, on 09.02.1988 in Munich; Flea, John Frusciante, Anthony Kiedis, and Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers are seen backstage at the 2022 MTV VMAs at Prudential Center on August 28, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/yYS-8o2WqbmutQqISUbBcT3x1bg=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Hillel-Slovak-red-hot-chili-peppers-032026-b20eda293d49451292cca217f681efac.jpg) Revisiting Hillel Slovak’s Lasting Legacy with the Red Hot Chili Peppers and His Sudden Death By Skyler Trepel](https:\/\/people.com\/hillel-slovak-red-hot-chili-peppers-legacy-death-11927160)\n\n[![Alan Jackson and Denise Jackson with their daughters, Mattie, Alexandra, and Dani. ](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/2LYiojMIxaAeaQ4RUfEKq_tSZCA=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/alan-jackson-daughters-5-35ccbe89a2d84baa847b3e92a264c280.jpg) ![Alan Jackson and Denise Jackson with their daughters, Mattie, Alexandra, and Dani. ](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/2LYiojMIxaAeaQ4RUfEKq_tSZCA=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/alan-jackson-daughters-5-35ccbe89a2d84baa847b3e92a264c280.jpg) Meet Alan Jackson's 3 Daughters, Mattie, Alexandra and Dani By Emily J. Shiffer and Nicole Pomarico](https:\/\/people.com\/alan-jackson-daughters-everything-to-know-11933971)\n\n[![Shaquille O'Neal; Sabrina Carpenter](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/WNgFASp0lR5F1aphz6K7enFcVXc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Shaquille-ONeal-Sabrina-Carpenter-032626-f0d64413803d4b4a9641a14747785ff7.jpg) ![Shaquille O'Neal; Sabrina Carpenter](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/WNgFASp0lR5F1aphz6K7enFcVXc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Shaquille-ONeal-Sabrina-Carpenter-032626-f0d64413803d4b4a9641a14747785ff7.jpg) Shaquille O'Neal Explains the Viral Rumors That He Sent Sabrina Carpenter 'Horny' DMs By Natasha Dye](https:\/\/people.com\/shaquille-oneal-explains-rumors-he-sent-sabrina-carpenter-horny-dms-11935129)\n\n[![American Idol's live elimination postponed after unprecedented voting, shocking Ryan Seacrest and judges.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/eyiY6jXraiojOK_KqePN6BUjDk4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/American-Idol-sg-033126-9084305a585b42e8b00fc41a314cd1ad.jpg) ![American Idol's live elimination postponed after unprecedented voting, shocking Ryan Seacrest and judges.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/eyiY6jXraiojOK_KqePN6BUjDk4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/American-Idol-sg-033126-9084305a585b42e8b00fc41a314cd1ad.jpg) Ryan Seacrest Reveals a 'Totally Unprecedented' First for *American Idol* After 24 Years on Air That Leaves Everyone Shocked By Rachel DeSantis](https:\/\/people.com\/ryan-seacrest-reveals-totally-unprecedented-first-american-idol-after-24-years-on-air-11938259)\n\n[![JoJo Retuning to Broadway in Hit Revival of Chess](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/ste6VHgHK2QH-0IFE7bq2zN-nJc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/JoJo-chess-032426-tout-5b24e57f70ca4c3c9c8d341df35d1933.jpg) ![JoJo Retuning to Broadway in Hit Revival of Chess](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/ste6VHgHK2QH-0IFE7bq2zN-nJc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/JoJo-chess-032426-tout-5b24e57f70ca4c3c9c8d341df35d1933.jpg) JoJo Returning to Broadway in Hit Revival of *Chess*: ‘It Feels Incredibly Right’ (Exclusive) By Jack Irvin](https:\/\/people.com\/jojo-returning-to-broadway-in-hit-revival-of-chess-exclusive-11933771)\n\n[![Lisa, Jisoo, Rosé and Jennie of BLACKPINK perform at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 22, 2023 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/t0KX5-y6wtx7tG0ijrNGQM7XRYM=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/huntr-x-band-kpop-demon-hunters-blackpink-090425-12ae75b226df4d2d8352ef5d4975cfb7.jpg) ![Lisa, Jisoo, Rosé and Jennie of BLACKPINK perform at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 22, 2023 in Indio, California.](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/t0KX5-y6wtx7tG0ijrNGQM7XRYM=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/huntr-x-band-kpop-demon-hunters-blackpink-090425-12ae75b226df4d2d8352ef5d4975cfb7.jpg) BLACKPINK Is Better Together Than Apart, and Their New Mini-Album *Deadline* Proves There's Still Potential By Brendan Le](https:\/\/people.com\/blackpink-better-together-deadline-mini-album-11915789)\n\n[![Rory McPhee and Mel B depart following their wedding in the OBE (Order of the British Empire) Chapel at St Paul's Cathedral on July 5, 2025 in London, England. ](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/dHh2vwBWlnaOsBfMeFUMVZDDVeE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Mel-B-Rory-McPhee4-wedding-2025-033126-172e1547d3f446c78b95783bd6683475.jpg) ![Rory McPhee and Mel B depart following their wedding in the OBE (Order of the British Empire) Chapel at St Paul's Cathedral on July 5, 2025 in London, England. ](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/dHh2vwBWlnaOsBfMeFUMVZDDVeE=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Mel-B-Rory-McPhee4-wedding-2025-033126-172e1547d3f446c78b95783bd6683475.jpg) Mel B Told Husband Rory McPhee She Was 'Never' Getting Married Again: 'So If I Were You, I Would Look Somewhere Else' By Erin Clack](https:\/\/people.com\/mel-b-told-husband-she-was-never-getting-married-again-look-somewhere-else-11938408)\n\n[![Harry Styles during Promos on Saturday Night Live](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/jr-Q2TyVHXtINKTK7FLM5jrtNWQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/harry-styles-saturday-night-live-promos-new-york-031226-91f2589aeb8441019138cb77fdc11d4e.jpg) ![Harry Styles during Promos on Saturday Night Live](https:\/\/people.com\/thmb\/jr-Q2TyVHXtINKTK7FLM5jrtNWQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/harry-styles-saturday-night-live-promos-new-york-031226-91f2589aeb8441019138cb77fdc11d4e.jpg) Is *SNL* New Tonight? Here's What to Know About the Fifteenth Episode of Season 51 By Nicholas Rice](https:\/\/people.com\/is-snl-new-tonight-what-to-know-about-the-fifteenth-episode-of-season-51-harry-styles-11925372)\n\n[PEOPLE](https:\/\/people.com\/)\n\nGet more in our free app\n\n[Newsletters](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know\/)\n\n## Follow Us\n\n- [News](https:\/\/people.com\/news\/)\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/people.com\/entertainment\/)\n- [Royals](https:\/\/people.com\/royals\/)\n- [Lifestyle](https:\/\/people.com\/lifestyle\/)\n- [StyleWatch](https:\/\/people.com\/stylewatch-fall-2023-7853570)\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/people.com\/shopping\/)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/people.com\/about-us-5499056)\n- [PEOPLE Tested](https:\/\/people.com\/product-review-guidelines-5499058)\n- [Editorial Policy](https:\/\/people.com\/editorial-policy-5499057)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/support.people.inc\/hc\/en-us\/requests\/new)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n\nPEOPLE is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\n![]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"It's not always \"all fun and games...\"\n\nYou probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across *[Squid Game](https:\/\/www.netflix.com\/title\/81040344)*, Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's [taken the world by storm](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/).\n\nThe K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a \\$40 million cash prize. The twist? In *[Squid Game](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/)*, the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die.\n\nWe've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to [dethrone *Bridgerton*](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever\/) as Netflix's [biggest show ever](https:\/\/people.com\/tv\/bridgerton-tops-netflix-show-a-teacher-tops-hulu-show\/)\\!\n\nSquid Game. YOUNGKYU PARK\/Netflix\n\n**How many episodes are in *Squid Game*?**\n\nThe first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.)\n\n**For more on *Squid Game* and other top stories, listen below to [our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day](https:\/\/megaphone.link\/HSW1065075894).**\n\nFans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the *[Squid Game](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4)* [trailer](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) on YouTube. One fan proudly stated, \"this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever.\" Another fan wrote, \"You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably.\"\n\nNetflix\n\n**Who's in the *Squid Game* cast?**\n\nThe cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it.\n\nLee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad.\n\nPark Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game.\n\n*Squid Game* marks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage.\n\nOther notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the \"old man\" in the games *–* also known as player 001.\n\nNetflix\n\n**Are there subtitles?**\n\n*Squid Game* offers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word \"enjoy\" for such a nailbiting premise).\n\nStreamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.).\n\nFans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). ([Listen to Bong Joon-ho](https:\/\/people.com\/tag\/golden-globe-awards\/?slide=7547841)!)\n\n**What makes *Squid Game* such a huge hit?**\n\nNetflix released *Squid Game* in the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series \"entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21,\" according to *[Variety](https:\/\/variety.com\/2021\/global\/asia\/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355\/?cx_testId=49&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=5#cxrecs_s)*. In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day.\n\nTed Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. \"We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity,\" [he said at a Vox media conference](https:\/\/news.yahoo.com\/squid-game-netflix-installed-replica-153313691.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe%20did%20not%20see%20that,of%20release%20is%20%E2%80%9CBridgerton.%E2%80%9D).\n\nNetflix\n\n**Is *Squid Game* a** **real game?**\n\nShort answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including \"Red Light, Green Light,\" Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose.\n\nSquid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to *[The Korea Herald](http:\/\/www.koreaherald.com\/view.php?ud=20210915000975)* that he chose *Squid Game* as the title because it is the \"most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games.\" He added, \"I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So *Squid Game* was a perfect name for this series.\"\n\n**Will there be a *Squid Game* Season 2?**\n\nAlright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're \"dying\" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more).\n\nThe director told [Variety](https:\/\/variety.com\/2021\/global\/asia\/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355\/), \"I don't have well developed plans for *Squid Game* *2*. It is quite tiring just thinking about it.\" He continued, \"But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors.\"\n\nIn the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait\\!\n\n**Okay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll?**\n\nYou should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the \"Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3\" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. ([You can also read Vulture's \"interview\" with her here.)](https:\/\/www.vulture.com\/article\/squid-game-an-interview-with-the-giant-robot-doll.html)","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://people.com/tv/squid-game-everything-you-need-to-know/
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Meta Title	Squid Game Cast and Everything To Know About The New Netflix Drama
Meta Description	We've rounded up everything you need to know about Squid Game, the new Korean drama that's on track to be Netflix's biggest show ever. Find out about the stars, the plot and whether there will be a season 2!
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Boilerpipe Text	It's not always "all fun and games..." You probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across Squid Game , Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's taken the world by storm . The K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a $40 million cash prize. The twist? In Squid Game , the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die. We've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to dethrone Bridgerton as Netflix's biggest show ever ! Squid Game. YOUNGKYU PARK/Netflix How many episodes are in Squid Game ? The first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.) For more on Squid Game and other top stories, listen below to our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day . Fans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the Squid Game trailer on YouTube. One fan proudly stated, "this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever." Another fan wrote, "You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably." Netflix Who's in the Squid Game cast? The cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it. Lee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad. Park Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game. Squid Game marks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage. Other notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the "old man" in the games – also known as player 001. Netflix Are there subtitles? Squid Game offers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word "enjoy" for such a nailbiting premise). Streamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.). Fans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). ( Listen to Bong Joon-ho !) What makes Squid Game such a huge hit? Netflix released Squid Game in the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series "entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21," according to Variety . In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day. Ted Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. "We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity," he said at a Vox media conference . Netflix Is Squid Game a real game? Short answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including "Red Light, Green Light," Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose. Squid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to The Korea Herald that he chose Squid Game as the title because it is the "most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games." He added, "I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So Squid Game was a perfect name for this series." Will there be a Squid Game Season 2? Alright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're "dying" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more). The director told Variety , "I don't have well developed plans for Squid Game 2 . It is quite tiring just thinking about it." He continued, "But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors." In the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait! Okay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll? You should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the "Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. ( You can also read Vulture's "interview" with her here.)
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She joined PEOPLE in 2021, but has eight years of experience working in digital publishing with a focus on entertainment and pop culture news. [People Editorial Guidelines](https://people.com/editorial-policy-page-5499057) Published on October 1, 2021 03:47PM EDT ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/_6ekiQn-_H8VpwhTRi1_Mh8G6bE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$989x339:991x341$/squid-game-2-1037536e57c5438d81f390b5566ac564.jpg) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/_6ekiQn-_H8VpwhTRi1_Mh8G6bE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$989x339:991x341$/squid-game-2-1037536e57c5438d81f390b5566ac564.jpg) Credit : YOUNGKYU PARK/Netflix It's not always "all fun and games..." You probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across [Squid Game](https://www.netflix.com/title/81040344), Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's [taken the world by storm](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/). The K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a \$40 million cash prize. The twist? In [Squid Game](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/), the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die. We've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to [dethrone Bridgerton](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/) as Netflix's [biggest show ever](https://people.com/tv/bridgerton-tops-netflix-show-a-teacher-tops-hulu-show/)\! ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/P5AWcsRnJAq5IqGdgZCV5Ejnwd8=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$404x289:406x291$/squid-game-3-2b6bcbeecc6447d89e5aea544a132dd1.jpg) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/P5AWcsRnJAq5IqGdgZCV5Ejnwd8=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$404x289:406x291$/squid-game-3-2b6bcbeecc6447d89e5aea544a132dd1.jpg) Squid Game. YOUNGKYU PARK/Netflix *How many episodes are in Squid Game?* The first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.) *For more on Squid Game* and other top stories, listen below to [our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day](https://megaphone.link/HSW1065075894).** Fans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the [Squid Game](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) on YouTube. One fan proudly stated, "this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever." Another fan wrote, "You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably." ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/j_xgqDoNnHQw6EtiyKB6MhiTAw0=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$629x239:631x241$/squid-game-1-6c3bdd0aaf154c4bab25a0a0f6ae76c7.jpg) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/j_xgqDoNnHQw6EtiyKB6MhiTAw0=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$629x239:631x241$/squid-game-1-6c3bdd0aaf154c4bab25a0a0f6ae76c7.jpg) Netflix *Who's in the Squid Game* cast?** The cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it. Lee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad. Park Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game. Squid Game marks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage. Other notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the "old man" in the games – also known as player 001. [Bridgerton Season 2: The Man in the High Castle's Rupert Evans Cast as Late Family Patriarch](https://people.com/tv/bridgerton-season-2-rupert-evans-cast-as-edmund-bridgerton/) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/Hfs1c7Wnwdi13_1MRsDvpbxhh8I=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$869x249:871x251$/squid-game-2-b405ee20c3544f509764d7fd5a78f8cb.jpg) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/Hfs1c7Wnwdi13_1MRsDvpbxhh8I=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$869x249:871x251$/squid-game-2-b405ee20c3544f509764d7fd5a78f8cb.jpg) Netflix Are there subtitles? Squid Game offers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word "enjoy" for such a nailbiting premise). Streamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.). Fans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). ([Listen to Bong Joon-ho](https://people.com/tag/golden-globe-awards/?slide=7547841)!) *What makes Squid Game* such a huge hit?** Netflix released Squid Game in the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series "entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21," according to [Variety](https://variety.com/2021/global/asia/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355/?cx_testId=49&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=5#cxrecs_s). In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day. Ted Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. "We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity," [he said at a Vox media conference](https://news.yahoo.com/squid-game-netflix-installed-replica-153313691.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe%20did%20not%20see%20that,of%20release%20is%20%E2%80%9CBridgerton.%E2%80%9D). [**Squid Game: Korean Survival Drama Could Dethrone Bridgerton as Netflix's Biggest Show Ever](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/byxKVHmmIRfmJkTQ_UCuG4i-oX8=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$689x319:691x321$/squid-game-3-af332207ad4e4d9ca1bd4b1e5df70008.jpg) ![Squid Game](https://people.com/thmb/byxKVHmmIRfmJkTQ_UCuG4i-oX8=/4000x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc:focal$689x319:691x321$/squid-game-3-af332207ad4e4d9ca1bd4b1e5df70008.jpg) Netflix Is Squid Game a real game?** Short answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including "Red Light, Green Light," Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose. Squid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to [The Korea Herald](http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20210915000975) that he chose Squid Game as the title because it is the "most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games." He added, "I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So Squid Game was a perfect name for this series." [Tiger King 2 Will Premiere on Netflix in November — Check Out the Newest Sneak Peek\!](https://people.com/tv/tiger-king-2-release-date-november-17-netflix-tudum-sneak-peek/) *Will there be a Squid Game* Season 2?** Alright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're "dying" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more). The director told [Variety](https://variety.com/2021/global/asia/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355/), "I don't have well developed plans for Squid Game 2. It is quite tiring just thinking about it." He continued, "But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors." In the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait\! Okay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll? You should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the "Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. 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Readable Markdown	It's not always "all fun and games..." You probably haven't been able to scroll through social media without coming across [Squid Game](https://www.netflix.com/title/81040344), Netflix's new Korean survival drama that's [taken the world by storm](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/). The K-drama revolves around a group of 456 people facing massive debts who willingly compete in a series of seemingly simple children's games in an attempt to win a \$40 million cash prize. The twist? In [Squid Game](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/), the games are lethal, and the lives of everyone who plays are on the line. Simply put, if a player loses, they will die. We've rounded up everything you need to know about the thrilling series that's on track to [dethrone Bridgerton](https://people.com/tv/squid-game-korean-survival-drama-could-dethrone-bridgerton-as-netflixs-biggest-show-ever/) as Netflix's [biggest show ever](https://people.com/tv/bridgerton-tops-netflix-show-a-teacher-tops-hulu-show/)\! Squid Game. YOUNGKYU PARK/Netflix *How many episodes are in Squid Game?* The first season of the suspenseful series consists of nine episodes. Each episode ranges from 50 to 60 minutes, except episode 8 which lasts around 30 minutes. (And since it's seriously bingeworthy, that means you should block out about eight hours to watch the whole thing in one sitting.) *For more on Squid Game* and other top stories, listen below to [our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day](https://megaphone.link/HSW1065075894).** Fans have repeatedly expressed their excitement and dedication to the series under the comment section of the [Squid Game](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4) on YouTube. One fan proudly stated, "this is one of the most bingeable shows on Netflix ever." Another fan wrote, "You know the show is a masterpiece when you binge watch uncontrollably." Netflix *Who's in the Squid Game* cast?** The cast consists of talented newcomers and longtime stars — but don't get too attached, because anyone can be killed off when you least expect it. Lee Jung-jae plays Seong Gi-hun, who is an unlucky gambling addict who lives with his elderly mother and works as a chauffeur. He enters the game with the intent of winning the money to prevent his 10-year-old daughter from moving to America with her mother and stepdad. Park Hae-soo plays Cho Sang-woo, who is Seong Gi-hun's childhood best friend. Although he is a gifted graduate from Seoul National University with a steady job, he is wanted by the police after stealing money from his clients. This is his reason for entering the game. Squid Game marks model HoYeon Jung's first acting role, playing the role of Kang Sae-byeok. She's a resourceful, fearless North Korean defector (whose knife and pickpocket skills are frightening, yet impressive) and hopes to win the money to get her family out of North Korea and help her little brother who lives in an orphanage. Other notable characters include Pakistan migrant worker Ali Abdul (played by Anupam Tripathi), gangster Jang Deok-su (played by Heo Sung-tae), and Oh Il-nam (played by Oh Young-soo), who is the "old man" in the games – also known as player 001. Netflix Are there subtitles? Squid Game offers two ways for non-Korean speakers to enjoy the show (if you can use the word "enjoy" for such a nailbiting premise). Streamers can either customize subtitles to their desired language (English, Spanish, Korean, or Chinese words are offered in the U.S.) and read them across the bottom of their screens, or choose an overdubbed language (Korean, English, French, Spanish, and German dubbings are offered in the U.S.). Fans on Twitter have vocally expressed their opinions on how viewers should watch the show (with subtitles). ([Listen to Bong Joon-ho](https://people.com/tag/golden-globe-awards/?slide=7547841)!) *What makes Squid Game* such a huge hit?** Netflix released Squid Game in the U.S. on Sept. 17. The series "entered the Top 10 on Sept. 19 at No. 8, climbed to No. 2 the next day, and was at No. 1 by its fourth day of availability on Sept. 21," according to [Variety](https://variety.com/2021/global/asia/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355/?cx_testId=49&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=5#cxrecs_s). In South Korea, the show's home market, it debuted in second, and reached No. 1 the next day. Ted Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO and chief content officer, has been thrilled by its success. "We did not see that coming, in terms of its global popularity," [he said at a Vox media conference](https://news.yahoo.com/squid-game-netflix-installed-replica-153313691.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe%20did%20not%20see%20that,of%20release%20is%20%E2%80%9CBridgerton.%E2%80%9D). Netflix *Is Squid Game* a real game?** Short answer: No. Though many of the games that are played throughout the survival series are a twisted take on beloved childhood games (including "Red Light, Green Light," Tug of War, and marbles), there are no versions in which you die if you lose. Squid Game, though, is actually the name of a real-life game that was popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, in which the court was loosely shaped like a squid. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk explained to [The Korea Herald](http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20210915000975) that he chose Squid Game as the title because it is the "most physical game and his personal favorite among many childhood games." He added, "I thought the game was a perfect metaphor of our highly competitive society. So Squid Game was a perfect name for this series." *Will there be a Squid Game* Season 2?** Alright, it's time to answer the burning question that you're "dying" to know the answer to (now that you've already binged the series and desperately need more). The director told [Variety](https://variety.com/2021/global/asia/squid-game-director-hwang-dong-hyuk-korean-series-global-success-1235073355/), "I don't have well developed plans for Squid Game 2. It is quite tiring just thinking about it." He continued, "But if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I'd consider using a writers' room and would want multiple experienced directors." In the meantime, guess we'll have to scroll through TikTok and watch all of the mind-blowing fan theories (like the one below) while we wait\! Okay, I really do have to know: What's up with that spooky robot doll? You should really watch to find out, but to get an idea, you can watch passersby at a mall in the Philippines react to a replica of the giant doll that oversees the deadly games. She's singing the "Red Light, Green Light, 1-2-3" song from the first challenge as she tries to catch people walking against the light. ([You can also read Vulture's "interview" with her here.)](https://www.vulture.com/article/squid-game-an-interview-with-the-giant-robot-doll.html)
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