From front row left, actors Lee Jin-uk, Park Sung-hoon, Lee Jung-jae, the series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, Lee Byung-hun, Yim Si-wan, Jo Yu-ri and Kang Ha-neul pose during a press conference for Netflix's series "Squid Game" Season 2 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, Monday. From second row left are actors Yang Dong-geun, Lee Seo-hwan, Kang Ae-sim, Park Gyu-young and Wi Ha-joon. Newsis

Hwang Dong-hyuk, creator of the highly anticipated Netflix series "Squid Game," said that viewers will find that watching the new season is not so disconnected from their view of the real world in light of the recent martial law crisis in Korea.

"Viewers of 'Squid Game' Season 2 will be able to find scenes that remind them of the absurd conflicts, divisions and upheavals happening not only in our country but also around the world," Hwang said during a press conference at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, Monday.

"People watching 'Squid Game' Season 2 will realize that this drama is not far from how we look at this world."

Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creator of "Squid Game" Season 2, speaks during a press conference at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, Monday. Yonhap

His remarks came less than a week after President Yoon Suk Yeol suddenly declared martial law on Dec. 3, stating that pro-North Korean and anti-state forces must be eradicated. The martial law command also attempted to occupy legislative institutions, including the National Assembly, sparking public outrage over the president's use of military force to disrupt constitutional procedures and undermine the principle of separation of powers.

Although martial law was lifted hours later when the National Assembly passed a resolution demanding its termination the next day, many Koreans are still outraged as the impeachment motion against the president failed to be put to a vote on Saturday because most ruling party members boycotted the parliamentary vote.

Hwang, the showrunner, expressed his anger at witnessing this situation, adding that the person who needs to take responsibility, whether through impeachment or voluntary resignation, must do so.

"I feel heavy-hearted to release 'Squid Game' Season 2 in these times. Like everyone here, I couldn't believe the martial law announcement and watched how the situation unfolded, staying up all night," Hwang said.

"As a citizen, I'm angry that the entire nation cannot sleep and has to go out on the streets (for rallies) and spend the year-end season with fear and depression due to these absurd events," he said, adding that he hopes those responsible for this incident will take responsibility and return a happy and blessed end of the year to the people.

People take a look at the experience zone for the Netflix series "Squid Game" Season 2 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, Monday. Yonhap

"Squid Game," which premiered on Netflix in 2021, is a gripping battle royale drama that portrays 456 participants, including Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), competing in deadly versions of Korean children's games for a chance to win 45.6 billion won ($32 million). The show captivated global audiences with its intense narrative, where only one contestant can claim the massive prize.

Following its global success, the production of Season 2 was confirmed, promising more layered and intricate storytelling.

Introducing the new season, set to premiere on Dec. 26, the showrunner pointed out the biggest change — the vote to continue or stop the game now takes place after each round. In the previous season, this vote was held only once during the show, but the new format in Season 2 aims to highlight the divisions and conflicts among participants by forcing them to make this decision more frequently.

"Not only the current situation in our country, but the U.S. presidential election also ended recently. It would be interesting to relate this voting to the real world," Hwang said.

He noted that the world, including Korea, is increasingly polarized, with divisions deepening and conflicts escalating, and Season 2 mirrors this reality.

"When you see people antagonizing and dividing each other, you will feel that the real world and the world in 'Squid Game 2' are, in fact, very similar. I hope this creates an opportunity to look around at our surroundings and the world we live in through our society," he added.

Hwang Dong-hyuk, front row left, the creator of "Squid Game" Season 2, speaks at a press conference, while actors Lee Jung-jae, front row center, and Lee Byung-hun, front row right, attend the conference at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, Monday. Yonhap

Lee, who plays the show's protagonist, Gi-hun, said his character has changed dramatically in the new season.

"Gi-hun's emotions and his perspective on situations seem to have completely changed," Lee said. "He has transformed into a character with clear goals."

Actor Lee Byung-hun, who plays the Front Man in charge of the game, expressed his hope that the new season will also be well-received by global viewers.

"'Squid Game' was loved worldwide because it had universal emotions that people from any country could relate to," he said. "More character stories and drama will lead Season 2."