Squid Game actor Lee Jung Jae and director Hwang Dong Hyuk honoured with South Korea’s highest cultural award

The duo was awarded with The Geumgwan Order of Cultural Merit.

Netflix hit survival drama Squid Game’s director Hwang Dong Hyuk and lead actor Lee Jung Jae have been awarded South Korea’s highest national cultural medal for their contribution in the film industry. According to NME report, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol presented the award to both the director and actor in his office in Seoul, as a token of commendation for their “role in the national film industry.”

Squid Game actor Lee Jung Jae and director Hwang Dong Hyuk honoured with South Korea’s highest cultural award

Alongside the bestowal of the medals, the president also praised Hwang Dong Hyuk his “fierce efforts and talent” throughout his career with other films such as Silenced and Miss Granny. President Yoon also praised Lee Jung Jae for his “remarkable performance” on the blockbuster series.

The actor has won numerous accolades including the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series award at this year’s Emmy Awards for his performance as Seong Gi Hun on Squid Game, becoming the first Asian actor to win the award.

“Thank you to Director Hwang for making realistic problem[s] we all face come to life so creatively on the screen, with a great script and amazing visuals,” he said during his acceptance speech. “To everyone watching from Korea, my friends, family, and dearest fans, I want to share this joy with you. Thank you.”

Meanwhile, season 2 for the hit show is headed into production, which will begin in early 2023. The second installment is slated for a release at the end of 2024.

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