Squid Game creator Hwang Dong-hyuk recently revealed how Elon Musk inspired the VIPs in Season 3 of the series. He explained why the villains now step into the violence, reflect real-world billionaires, and no longer hide their power.
Hwang Dong-hyuk says Squid Game Season 3’s VIPs are similar to Elon Musk
Speaking to TIME through an interpreter, Hwang Dong-hyuk stated, “Elon Musk is everywhere these days, right? Not only is he the head of a huge tech company that controls the world almost, but he’s also this showman.” He added, “After writing [Season 3], of course I thought, ‘Oh, some of the VIPs do kind of resemble Elon Musk.’”
The VIPs were introduced in Season 1 as wealthy, anonymous spectators who bet on the deadly games. Described as “dirtbag millionaires,” the VIPs watch players die while being pampered by the Game’s staff. They return in Season 3 with a more direct role. In Episode 3, they shed their animal masks, wear soldier uniforms, and kill contestants with machine guns.
Hwang said the VIPs’ expanded role reflects shifts in real-world power dynamics. “In the past, those that really controlled the system and maintained power, they were hidden behind the curtain, almost like this big unseen conspiracy. However, it’s no longer the case, especially in America.” He added, “These so-called big tech owners, they step up, telling everyone who they’re backing with their money… They willingly take their masks off, almost as if to declare, ‘We’re the ones running everything.’”
Although Hwang clarified that the characters aren’t based on any real individual, he noted parallels to today’s billionaire class. Season 3 explores the VIPs’ thinking and shows how their control reflects that of real-world oligarchs.
In the interview, Hwang reiterated, “We talk a lot about oligarchy these days,” aligning the show’s narrative with rising global wealth inequality and the visible influence of tech elites.
All three seasons of Squid Game are now streaming exclusively on Netflix.
