Netflix original megahit series 'Squid Game' director Hwang Dong Hyuk received the Creator Tribute Award at the 2025 'Gotham Television Awards' held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
Hwang Dong Hyuk's Creator Tribute Award Speech
The ceremony took place on June 2, and during his acceptance speech, Director Hwang expressed his emotions by saying, “It feels like the miracles keep coming.”
Reflecting on his first win at the same awards in 2021, he said, “At the time, I said, ‘All of this feels like a miracle,’ and now, four years later, just being back here again is a miracle in itself.”
Speaking about the Creator Tribute Award trophy, he remarked, “It’s not flashy, but its rough form holds deep meaning.” He added, “It feels like a reminder not to be complacent about success but to move forward with a sense of responsibility.” He concluded his speech with a heartfelt resolution, saying, “I will carry this trophy close to my heart and keep moving forward,” referring to the upcoming release of 'Squid Game' Season 3.
He expressed gratitude to Netflix staff, the cast, and his mother. Notably, he said, “I’d also like to thank everyone who rejected the 'Squid Game' script back in 2009. Without those rejections, today’s 'Squid Game' wouldn’t have been possible.”
The Creator Tribute Award is presented to creators who have expanded the boundaries of TV content and left a significant mark on the industry. Hwang Dong Hyuk’s recognition reaffirms the global impact of 'Squid Game' in the content market. This marks his first Tribute Award at the Gotham Awards.
Actor Lee Jung Jae, who played Seong Gi Hun, participant 456 in the series, also attended the event. Taking the stage as the presenter of the Creator Tribute Award, Lee Jung Jae paid his respects and thanks to Director Hwang. Accompanied by an English interpreter, he said, “Director Hwang is a storyteller whose imagination changed the landscape of global television,” and “He showed the world the power of bold storytelling.”
The Gotham Awards, established in 1991, is known for celebrating originality and experimentation in independent films and dramas. 'Squid Game' previously won the “Breakthrough Series Over 40 Minutes” category at the 2021 Gotham Awards. The Gotham Awards started its own separate TV award ceremony starting with the 2024 'Gotham Television Awards.'
Meanwhile, 'Squid Game' Season 3, directed by Hwang, will be released on Netflix on June 27.
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