On January 17, 2025, in a recent interview with Wikitree, the music director of Squid Game 2, Jeong Jae-il, expressed surprise upon learning that the traditional Korean children's song Round and Round gained international popularity in its EDM remix form, becoming a staple in clubs worldwide. He said:
"I'm surprised and grateful. It seems really amazing. Director Hwang Dong-hyeok decided a long time ago to use the 'Round and Round' children's song in the game scene. I wanted to dramatically contrast the song's cheerful melody with the betrayal and tense scenes in the play."
Round and Round, known as "Donggeulge Donggeulge" in Korean, is a classic nursery rhyme that was prominently featured in the third game of Squid Game 2, titled "Mingle" in episode 5. In this game, players are placed on a merry-go-round, and the song plays continuously, adding an eerie contrast to the high-stakes environment.
The juxtaposition of the innocent melody with the intense scenario left a lasting impression on viewers. This impact led to the song's resurgence in popularity, culminating in its adaptation into an EDM track that has been embraced by DJs and club-goers around the globe.
The music director, who had initially selected the song for its cultural resonance and thematic relevance, was reportedly unaware of its transformation and widespread acclaim in the electronic dance music scene.
Plot run-through of Squid Game 2 and the 'Mingle' Game in episode 5
Season 2 of Squid Game continues to explore the harrowing experiences of participants entangled in life-or-death games orchestrated by a clandestine organization. The narrative delves deeper into the personal stories of the contestants, shedding light on their motivations and the societal pressures that drive them to partake in the deadly competition.
The season also introduces new games designed to test the physical and psychological limits of the players, all while maintaining a critical lens on issues such as economic disparity and moral ambiguity.
In the second season of Netflix's acclaimed series Squid Game 2, the traditional Korean children's song, Round and Round (Korean: 둥글게 둥글게) plays a pivotal role during the "Mingle" game, featured in episode 5. This classic tune, known for its cheerful melody, is juxtaposed against the high-stakes environment of the game.
Participants are required to "mingle" and quickly assemble into teams of specified numbers upon command. Failure to do so results in immediate elimination, underscoring the brutal nature of the competition. The continuous play of Round and Round during this game serves to heighten the tension, as the cheerful tune starkly contrasts with the deadly stakes faced by the players.
Meanwhile, Round and Round was created by composer Lee Soo-in and lyricist Jeong Geun to encourage unity and collective joy among children. The lyrics invite participants to join hands, form a circle, and dance together, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Throughout his career, Lee Soo-in composed over 500 children's songs and 150 art songs, with Round and Round being among his most celebrated works.
Squid Game 2 starring Lee Byung-hun, Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-joon, Yim Si-wan, Park Sung-hoon, and Kang Ha-neul, among others, is available on Netflix.