The birth of K-content that introduces not only K-pop but also national children's songs to the world.
With the Netflix original series 'Squid Game 2' released on the 26th of last month gaining global attention, the Korean children's song 'Dunglge Dunglge' featured in the game is drawing interest.
The matchmaking game 'Dunglge Dunglge' that became a hot topic in 'Squid Game 2' involves gathering as many people as called out to escape a space. The game takes place on a large disc, reminiscent of a carousel at an amusement park. As the disc slowly spins with the music, the children's song 'Dunglge Dunglge' plays.
This children's song, familiar to Koreans since childhood, has been reborn in 'Squid Game 2' as a song filled with tension and eeriness. Despite its cheerful melody and lyrics, those who fail in the game meet a gruesome fate.
As a result, international viewers are expressing great interest, saying, "It's so addictive. It feels bizarre," and "The more I listen, the more strange it feels." In fact, foreigners are seen deeply engaged, dancing to 'Dunglge Dunglge' while holding hands in everyday life. Additionally, a DJ from Germany showcased his fandom by posting a remix version of 'Dunglge Dunglge' on his YouTube channel.
'Dunglge Dunglge' is a children's song composed and written by the late Lee Soo-in, who passed away in August 2021. This song has also been appropriately utilized in K-pop. The title of the song 'Ring a Ring a' released by Big Bang member Taeyang in 2013 was derived from the chorus of this children's song. Acknowledging this, Choi Seung-hyun (T.O.P), an actor from Big Bang who appeared in 'Squid Game 2', caught attention by performing the 'Ring a Ring a' choreography in the show. The group Sunny Hill also sampled this children's song in their lyrics for 'Cricket's Song'.
Following the buzz created by the traditional Korean game 'Mugunghwa Kkot-i Pieot Seumnida' in Season 1, K children's songs are being reevaluated in Season 2.
As diverse K-content is produced and globalized every year, Korea's traditional games and folk songs are playing a significant role as a global bridge.
Currently, 'Squid Game 2' has been viewed for nearly 500 million hours worldwide, making it the most-watched content on Netflix in its first week of release.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
