Hwang Dong-hyuk Receives Lifetime Achievement Award for ‘Squid Game’

On December 2, 2025, a remarkable event unfolded at Cipriani on Wall Street. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gotham TV Awards. This honor recognized his groundbreaking work on the Netflix series ‘Squid Game.’ The event attracted numerous stars, including lead actor Lee Jung-jae. He took this opportunity to celebrate Hwang’s contributions to the television industry.

Award Recognition for Director Hwang Dong-hyuk

During his heartfelt tribute, Lee Jung-jae emphasized that ‘Squid Game’ transcends typical drama. It serves as a powerful reflection of today’s societal issues. This engaging series connects with audiences in South Korea and worldwide. It has sparked important discussions about morality, survival, and human nature.

Hwang Dong-hyuk expressed his gratitude during the ceremony. He reflected on his journey and the recognition he continues to receive. He fondly recalled his first award in 2021. Hwang stated that the miracle of success feels as fresh today as it did then. However, his path to achievement was filled with challenges. He candidly acknowledged the many rejections he faced when pitching ‘Squid Game’ in 2009. Hwang recognized that every setback contributed to the story’s eventual triumph.

In an emotional moment, Hwang thanked Lee Jung-jae for his portrayal of Seong Gi-hun, the show’s protagonist. Hwang noted that while he couldn’t save the other participants in ‘Squid Game,’ Lee’s performance was key. It helped bring the narrative to life and resonated deeply with audiences.

Insights into ‘Squid Game’ Season 3 Premiere and Themes

As fans eagerly await the next chapter, ‘Squid Game’ Season 3 is set to premiere on December 27, 2025. This upcoming season promises to explore themes of friendship, hidden identities, and the fates of the participants in the brutal game. With Hwang Dong-hyuk at the helm, viewers can expect more compelling storytelling. ‘Squid Game’ has truly become a cultural phenomenon, captivating millions around the globe. Its impact continues to grow, highlighting the series’ significance in contemporary television.

This article has been written by Kpopmap AI writer and while we have made efforts to ensure the accuracy of the article, there may be errors or inaccuracies.