On January 1, 2024, the media research institute K-EnterTechHub published a comprehensive analysis assessing the performance metrics of both Seasons 1 and 2 of the globally acclaimed series Squid Game.
Revenue Insights: A Closer Look at Season 1 and Season 2
Squid Game Season 1 generated an impressive revenue of approximately 1 trillion KRW, with a production investment estimated at 25 billion KRW. This calculation translates to a remarkable 40-fold return on investment, making waves in the international content industry. In stark contrast, the production budget for Season 2 is projected to be around 100 billion KRW.
Unprecedented Ratings and Rapid Popularity Growth
Within just two days post-launch, Squid Game Season 2 dominated the TV show ratings across 93 countries, mirroring the phenomenal success of its predecessor. Data from FlixPatrol indicates that it only took eight days for Season 1 to reach the 930-point benchmark across the same nations; conversely, Season 2 accomplished this in record time, driving analysts to forecast its revenue might soar to at least 1.5 trillion KRW.
Expert Opinions on Profitability and Market Strategies
Han Jung-hoon, CEO of K-EnterTechHub, commented to Yonhap News that although Season 2 may not equal Season 1’s profitability, it still holds the potential for a return of at least ten times its production cost. He further emphasized the broader implications, including Netflix’s rising stock value, new subscriber growth, and South Korea’s ongoing vital role within Netflix’s global content strategy.
Netflix took a measured approach in responding to these projections, explaining that its subscription-based model differentiates it from traditional video-on-demand (VOD) systems or box office-centric theaters, which rely on one-time payments.
Potential for Greater Success as Franchise Expands
Industry analysts remain optimistic, suggesting that Season 2 may ultimately eclipse the profits generated by Season 1. Drawing insights from successful franchises like Stranger Things, which experienced profit growth starting in Season 3, analysts point to subscriber retention, new user acquisition, merchandising opportunities, and the establishment of themed attractions as significant profit contributors.
Looking Forward: Season 3 on the Horizon
In further exciting news, Netflix is gearing up for the release of Squid Game Season 3 later this year, signaling ongoing global interest and success.
In a recent announcement made on January 1, Netflix introduced a teaser poster and video for Season 3, declaring, “Younghee and Cheolsu. The games of childhood innocence never end. Squid Game Season 3, coming in 2025, exclusively on Netflix.” The short video showcases Younghee, the iconic doll from the first season’s memorable “Red Light, Green Light” game, along with her companion Cheolsu, heightening anticipation for the upcoming season’s plot.
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