Enjoyed Squid Game 2? Here are other similar South Korean movies you can watch

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

You know that feeling when you finish your favourite series and it feels like it is you versus a sense of emptiness. I can relate to it too.

Squid Game 2 left you on a cliffhanger? No worries, I have got a list of other South Korean movies you can use to hold body before Season 3 is out.

Hellbound 

The vibrant unpredictability of Squid Game’s narrative—and the ever-present threat of death that shadowed every character at any given time—was what hooked so many viewers. For those who love such engaging thrills, Hellbound might be the perfect series to sink into next. The South Korean supernatural fantasy transpires as ruthless angels of death begin delivering violent condemnation to lost souls destined for hell. In the wake of their emergence, a religious cult develops on the basis of divine justice.

The series has earned praise for how it balances its visceral horror elements with tremendous insights into sin in the modern day and humanity’s perpetual search for purpose and reason in the face of the divine. It drew immediate comparisons to Squid Game for its thrilling story of decisions and consequences, but Hellbound packs an added punch with its philosophical, biblical might that imbues the series with an existential pondering that is universally intriguing.

All of Us Are Dead

All of Us Are Dead, another captivating thriller from South Korea, masterfully blends zombie horror with poignant teenage drama. Set in Hyosan, the series unfolds after a botched science experiment triggers a devastating zombie outbreak. Trapped inside their school, a group of high school students must navigate the terrifying chaos as they desperately search for safety.

While the 12-episode format might feel a bit drawn-out, diminishing the initial horror, the compelling character dynamics remain consistently engaging. This minor flaw, however, doesn’t overshadow the series’ strengths, which will undoubtedly resonate with fans of Squid Game. The highly anticipated second season is set to begin in 2025.

Liar Game 

For fans of Squid Game seeking a different take on high-stakes competition, Liar Game is a compelling South Korean series adapted from the Japanese manga. This 2014 series follows an innocent college student who becomes entangled in a deceitful game of wits after being presented with a chance to eliminate her debts.

As she navigates this cutthroat competition where contestants ruthlessly con each other out of their money, she seeks help from a cunning, ex-con swindler. While the stakes may not be as deadly as Squid Game, Liar Game captivates with its intense focus on deception, manipulation, and the lengths people will go to for personal gain.

If you enjoyed Squid Game’s exploration of greed and desperation, but crave a different flavor of high-stakes drama, Liar Game offers a refreshing and intellectually stimulating alternative.

ALSO READ

• Squid Game 2: Second season of renowned South Korean series to debut on Boxing Day
• ‘Squid Game’ season 2 adds eight new cast members
• Movie review: Why Netflix’s Supacell is the series everyone is talking about
• 5 most popular series on Netflix in 2023
• Tyler Perry’s The Six Triple Eight shines a long-overdue light on unsung heroes

The 8 Show

In the wake of Squid Game’s global dominance, numerous South Korean series have attempted to replicate its success, often with predictable results. However, The 8 Show, a darkly comedic Netflix release from May 2024, offers a refreshing twist on the survival game formula.

This series follows eight contestants vying for a cash prize by simply staying in an eight-story building. They must use their resources and earnings to sustain themselves, but as time progresses, the initial camaraderie deteriorates, revealing the true nature of human ambition and desperation.

While the premise may evoke comparisons to Squid Game, The 8 Show cleverly subverts expectations with its sharp, black comedy. This unique approach effectively distinguishes itself from the countless imitators that have saturated the market.

Physical: 100

While Squid Game resonated with audiences on a profound thematic level, fans who primarily enjoyed its high-stakes competition format should explore Physical: 100. This South Korean reality show, inspired by the spirit of Ninja Warrior, pits 100 elite athletes against each other in a series of demanding physical challenges.

Unlike Squid Game, Physical: 100 avoids lethal consequences. However, the competition remains incredibly intense, with contestants vying for both glory and a substantial cash prize. Featuring elaborate challenges and awe-inspiring displays of strength and endurance, Physical: 100 provides the closest real-world experience to the thrilling, high-stakes competition of Squid Game.

Source: Collider