Netflix's 'Squid Game: Challenge' faces lawsuits over on‑set injuries

A program inspired by the controversial series "Squid Game" has emerged on the Netflix platform. Several competitors are voicing concerns about alarming conditions on the set, and they are declaring intentions to sue the producers.

The leaders of the Netflix platform have a knack for leveraging the popularity and longevity of their biggest hits. A spin-off exploring the character Berlin from "Money Heist," encouraged by the widespread affection of viewers, was created. The team responsible for the platform's programming also turned their attention to the South Korean hit, "Squid Game."

Even prior to the premiere of the second season of the highly popular production, an idea to conceive a game show based on the rules of the game defined in the series was proposed. Naturally, the most violent element, which involved killing participants who were eliminated from the competition, was omitted. Nevertheless, the creators could not evade significant controversies.

Mirroring the series' storyline, 456 participants competed in the Netflix "game," vying for the highest cash prize in the history of game shows, which is set precisely at $4.56 million. To win, participants needed to demonstrate physical fitness, logical reasoning abilities, and strategic alliance-building skills.

In spite of the producers' guarantees of creating entirely safe conditions that would not pose risks to the players' lives and health, two participants were injured on set while performing tasks. One participant suffered hypothermia, and another reported nerve damage. Reacting to the allegations, Netflix representatives responded that medical help was provided to three competitors, but dismissed the injuries as non-serious.

Those who participated in "Squid Game: Challenge" are painting a different picture. From their anecdotes, it appears there were numerous instances of fainting on set, and the recording was conducted in extremely low temperatures, causing numbing cold in their toes. Furthermore, they reported being unable to visit the bathroom or stay hydrated during the game.

"The participants thought they were merely part of a game and did not foresee the harm they would encounter. Now they are dealing with injuries, having spent time in an uncomfortable physical position in freezing conditions," - said Daniel Slade, CEO of the law firm representing the participants.

The dispute is likely to be resolved in court. Affected players are intending to apply for compensation, the amount of which has not been defined yet.