Squid Game 2 has sparked intense reactions from viewers all around the world, with opinions swinging from high praise to harsh criticism. In the midst of all the buzz, director Hwang Dong Hyuk is confidently looking ahead to Season 3, even promising that it will be better than the second season.

In an interview with AP News on November 26, ahead of Squid Game 2’s release, Hwang Dong Hyuk shared his thoughts on the series’ future. The director admitted to feeling some pressure about discussing the third season but gave a sneak peek of what’s to come.

"It’s set in the future, 10 to 20 years from now", he revealed. "Season 3 will have a darker atmosphere, very brutal and sad, but also quite bizarre and humorous." Hwang boldly added, "Season 3 will be better than Season 2," fueling even more anticipation from fans.

While the director remains optimistic, Squid Game 2 has received mixed reviews from both domestic and international media. Major foreign outlets have voiced disappointment with the season.

The New York Times published an article titled "Squid Game Turns on the Red Light," criticizing the second season for being too similar to the first, claiming that it repeats the same elements without offering anything new.

Similarly, Hollywood Reporter slammed the season, saying, "The second season of Squid Game was a complete disappointment. It lacked the fun and ingenuity of the first season and didn't provide new details or insights into the essence of the game."

However, not all reviews were negative. Some international outlets gave praise to Squid Game 2. IGN highlighted the script’s exploration of economic and political systems, adding a layer of democracy that increases the tension of the game.

Meanwhile, Independence UK appreciated how the season expanded beyond the first, skillfully twisting key moments of the story and shining a light on humanity's worst traits.

Despite the criticism, Squid Game 2 continues to dominate the global scene. It quickly reached the top of the viewership charts in 92 countries, including the United States, France, and Mexico, just a day after its release. Fans are already buzzing about the upcoming third season, which is expected to drop in the first half of next year.

As for Squid Game 2 itself, the story picks up where the first season left off, with Gihun (played by Lee Jung Jae) returning to the game for revenge. His fierce confrontation with the Front Man (Lee Byung Hun) and the reintroduction of the deadly game itself create intense drama and suspense.

However, some viewers found the season lacking in momentum, particularly in the second half. Criticism has also been aimed at former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who plays the role of Thanos, a drug-dealer rapper. Many fans expressed their disappointment with his acting, with some even saying they stopped watching because of it.

Others criticized the show for its repetitive costume designs and character concepts, claiming that the female characters felt too similar to those from Season 1.

Despite these mixed reactions, Squid Game 2 remains a major cultural phenomenon, setting the stage for an even bigger Season 3. Fans will be eagerly waiting to see if Hwang Dong Hyuk’s promises come to life.

Source: [1]

BTS’s J-Hope is keeping fans excited as he drops even more stunning concept photos for his highly anticipated new single!

On March 4, J-Hope released the second concept photo for his digital single "Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)" through BTS’s official social media, giving fans another glimpse into the warm and romantic theme of his comeback.

In the latest photos, J-Hope brings out the sweet and dreamy vibes of being in love—all in the most familiar place, his home.

He’s seen lying comfortably on a cozy rug, talking on the phone with a blissful smile, and daydreaming with his feet propped up on a chair.

Sitting on the edge of a bathtub, he looks completely relaxed, lost in thought, as the soft sunlight wraps around him, adding to the sentimental and heartwarming mood.

The dreamy setting and his gentle, love-filled expressions perfectly match the theme of "Sweet Dreams," making fans even more excited for the song’s release!

Before the official release, J-Hope will drop teaser videos on March 5 and 6, leading up to the big moment on March 7 at 2 PM KST.

To celebrate, J-Hope is also holding an exclusive offline fan event, "Sweet Dreamland," where 613 lucky ARMYs will get to experience the magic in person at 1 PM KST on March 7.

The number 613 isn’t random—it represents BTS’s debut date, June 13, showing J-Hope’s deep appreciation for his fans.

And don’t worry if you can’t be there in person—the event will be livestreamed on Weverse, so ARMYs all over the world can join in the fun!

"Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)" is a romantic serenade filled with J-Hope’s heartfelt emotions and a desire to love and be loved. With R&B star Miguel lending his smooth vocals to the track, anticipation is through the roof!

J-Hope has already started his first solo world tour with the "j-hope Tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’ in SEOUL", held at the KSPO DOME from February 28 to March 2.

But he didn’t stop there—he surprised fans with a pre-release performance of "Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)," and the crowd went wild!

Even before the official release, the song is already getting rave reviews! On March 3, British music magazine NME gave the concert a five-star rating, praising J-Hope’s powerful stage presence and saying:

"It was clear how much he missed the stage, and that’s where he shines the brightest. He has already proven his abilities as a BTS member, and now, he has done so again as a solo artist. He fully showcased his talent and radiated an energy stronger than ever before."

With a new single, an exclusive fan event, and an exciting world tour ahead, J-Hope is set to dominate the music scene once again! Are you ready to experience "Sweet Dreams"?

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