Squid Game Season 2 Nearly Altered Iconic Color Element: “We Would Have Faced Numerous Complaints”

Insights into Squid Game Season 2’s Design Choices

Squid Game has captivated audiences once again with its highly anticipated second season, which debuted at the close of last year, following the explosive revelations of its inaugural season three years prior. The latest chapter retained several hallmark design aspects from its predecessor, including the intricate, labyrinthine structures within the various games and the distinctive uniforms worn by both players and guards. As viewers eagerly await the resolution of the dramatic cliffhanger ending in season 3, slated for release later this year, the creative decisions behind the aesthetic choices are coming into focus.

Design Changes Revealed by the Art Director

In an engaging interview with The Korea Times, Chae Kyoung-sun, the art director for Squid Game season 2, disclosed an intriguing detail about the show’s design. One key element that was considered for alteration was the iconic player uniforms. Chae contemplated changing the classic green color of the tracksuits to a bright sky blue. She even presented a prototype to the show’s creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, inspired by the attire of a character from the beloved 1980s Korean animated series Run Hani. Ultimately, the decision was made to retain the original green hue, with the aim of preserving fan expectations and loyalty.

“We considered making the uniform tracksuits sky blue. I showed director (Hwang Dong-hyuk) a sample, but after some thought, he said, ‘Let’s go back to green.’ In the end, it was the right decision not to change (the color). We would have been bombarded with complaints from fans.”

The Impact of This Decision on the Series

Interplay of Designs in Squid Game Season 2

The second season of Squid Game expertly intertwines elements from both the original series and new innovations, particularly in set designs and costumes. Thanks to the collaborative choice by Chae and Hwang, the recognizable dark green tracksuits remain, adorned with player numbers in contrasting white. However, a notable update to the uniforms is the addition of velcro patches, signaling whether players opted to continue or cease participation in the harrowing games after each round. This transformation not only serves a functional purpose but also ties into the narrative arc.

Moreover, the famed maze-like set piece from Squid Game has evolved in its application from season 1 to season 2. Visually consistent yet thematically distinct, the hallway serves a new purpose as tactical cover during an intense confrontation between the guards and In Ho (revealed as The Front Man), alongside a faction of players rebelling against the internal chaos of the games. This illustrates how the new season manages to uphold familiar aesthetics while introducing fresh dynamics and storylines.

Perspective on Costuming Decisions

The Smart Choice of Tracksuit Color

The design adjustments in Squid Game season 2, particularly regarding the games and layout, are sufficiently comprehensive to affirm that a shift to sky blue tracksuits might not have been beneficial. The alterations we see in this season are intricately linked to the unfolding plot, enhancing rather than distracting from the narrative. Introducing a more vibrant color could have necessitated a convoluted justification within the storyline, possibly leading to disconnects with the audience.

As fans continue to delve into the complexities of Squid Game, these artistic choices and their implications will undoubtedly be a focal point of discussion as the story unfolds further.

Source: The Korea Times

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