With the release of still cuts and a teaser video, 'Squid Game' Season 2 is gearing up for its 2024 premiere, raising questions about its potential to achieve worldwide acclaim once again despite various controversies.

The Netflix original series, 'Squid Game,' revolves around participants who risk their lives in extreme games for a chance to win ₩45.6 billion. Its debut in 2021 garnered international fame, and at the 74th Emmy Awards, Lee Jung-jae won Best Actor, while director Hwang Dong-hyuk took home the Best Director award, sparking a global 'Squid Game' phenomenon.

Season 2, set to be released in 2024, has recently unveiled teaser videos and still cuts, preparing to meet audiences soon. The cast includes Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Im Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, Lee Jin-wook, Yang Dong-geun, Park Sung-hoon, Kang Ae-shim, Lee Da-wit, Choi Seung-hyun (TOP), No Jae-woon, Jo Yu-ri, and Won Ji-an. In the released teaser, Lee Jung-jae, with his hair dyed red, receives a call warning, "You'll regret the choice you made," to which he responds, "I'll find you, no matter what it takes," hinting at revenge and heightening anticipation.

However, 'Squid Game 2' has been mired in controversies even before its details were officially released, including the participation of TOP (Choi Seung-hyun), who was previously convicted of marijuana use, and allegations of workplace bullying. TOP, who received a suspended prison sentence in 2017 for marijuana use and hinted at retirement from the entertainment industry, has sparked debate with his return in 'Squid Game' as a leading role in K-content. Speculations about casting influences due to his connection with Lee Jung-jae have also surfaced.

Lee Jung-jae's side stated, "The casting of the work is the authority of the director and the production company. Actor Lee Jung-jae knows better than anyone that many actors are auditioning and working hard to appear in 'Squid Game 2'." Netflix also emphasized, "Casting decisions for Netflix productions are made by creators like the director, writer, and production company based on creative intent. Netflix respects these decisions."

Before these controversies could subside, allegations of mistreatment by the filming staff emerged, adding to the dispute. A post on an online community last July titled "Saw a 'Squid Game 2' staff yesterday who thought shooting was a privilege" expressed discomfort with a staff member's rude behavior at Incheon Airport.

The 'Squid Game 2' team responded, "We heard about the inconvenience caused to a citizen during the shooting at Incheon Airport on the 10th" and apologized, stating they tried their best to inform the public about the shooting situation but regret any inconvenience caused. They thanked the public for their understanding and promised to be more cautious in the future.

As 'Squid Game 2' locks in its 2024 release amidst high expectations and concerns over controversies, it remains to be seen whether it can replicate its global success amid ongoing issues.