Squid Game Season 2 has been a massive hit worldwide, but it’s facing controversy in Vietnam. The series, which debuted on Netflix just after Christmas 2024, has sparked backlash due to its portrayal of the Vietnam War in a specific scene.
The Vietnam Cinema Department is now reviewing the season for potential violations of the country’s regulations. If the review concludes that the show violates these regulations, it could be removed from Netflix Vietnam.
The Controversial Scene
The backlash stems from a dialogue in Episode 5 of Season 2. In the scene, a character named Dae-ho discusses his father’s experience as a Vietnam War veteran.
The conversation portrays South Korean soldiers in a positive light, which many Vietnamese viewers found offensive.
The dialogue suggests that Dae-ho’s father, a veteran, was an “honorable man,” which has been criticized for glorifying the role of South Korean soldiers in the Vietnam War.
Vietnamese Response
Many Vietnamese viewers have expressed their disappointment on social media, calling for a boycott of the series.
They argue that the portrayal of the Vietnam War is inaccurate and insensitive, especially considering the history between South Korea and Vietnam during that time.
The controversy has sparked a wider discussion on the intersection of creativity, historical accuracy, and cultural sensitivity in media.
The Bigger Picture
While the scene can be viewed as a creative narrative choice, it has triggered valid criticism from those directly affected by the Vietnam War.
The situation highlights the challenges of incorporating historical events into fictional narratives, where artistic freedom must balance with cultural and historical sensitivities.
The decision on whether Squid Game will be removed from Netflix in Vietnam ultimately lies with the Vietnam Cinema Department.
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