If you’re in Bangkok and notice a towering pair of strikingly familiar dolls, it’s not your imagination playing tricks. Young-hee, fondly referred to in Thailand as the “Gogowa doll,” has made her prominent return to the city, accompanied by her mysterious male counterpart, Cheol-su. All this fanfare is to drum up excitement for the eagerly awaited release of Squid Game Season 3, set to hit Netflix on June 27. This Korean series, a suspense-filled survival thriller, has captivated Thai audiences since its debut in 2021.
What started as a relatively straightforward premise of contestants playing traditional children’s games for a handsome monetary reward takes a dark turn as each loss is a permanent, fatal one. This shocking twist has kept viewers on the edges of their seats, and the anticipation for each season is heavy in the air.
Last December saw the electrifying premiere of Squid Game Season 2. In a particularly thrilling move, Netflix brought the show’s iconic (and chilling) Young-hee doll to Bangkok, a nod to the terrifying “AEIOU” game of the debut season. Towering at an impressive 12 meters, this animatronic marvel sailing down the Chao Phraya River left onlookers either awestruck or shivering—or perhaps a bit of both. The boat’s journey was an eerie spectacle, with masked guards in distinctive pink jumpsuits accompanying it, mimicking the ominous vibe of the show.
ICONSIAM Park was transformed into a mimicry of the show’s foreboding competition grounds, offering fans a taste of the games. Released on Netflix, the announcement of Squid Game’s third season has been paired with the bittersweet news: it will mark the series finale, as confirmed by the creative genius behind it all, director Hwang Dong-hyuk.
Heralding this climactic return, Gogowa, this time, doesn’t come alone. Cheol-su, a character introduced in the nail-biting final episodes of the second season, joins her for this spectacular send-off. Holding either end of a mechanical rope suspended near Bangkok’s renowned Giant Swing, the duo invites fans into a virtual rope-jumping escapade—an interactive experience bringing the sensation of the show into reality.
For those able to visit, this display indulges fans the unique opportunity to capture this rare moment fanatically. Described by MGR Online as the largest of their kind, these Squid Game dolls exist solely in Thailand, adding a layer of exclusivity and drawing fans from near and far to be part of this historical spectacle.
Throngs of cameras will start flashing come June 28, capturing moments with these imposing figures set against the rustic charm of Bangkok’s Old Town. It’s a must-see event for enthusiasts of the series, a beautifully curated blend of reality and fiction that showcases the far-reaching impact of Squid Game’s phenomenal success.
I can’t believe Squid Game is already marking its finale with Season 3! I’m so excited to see Young-hee and Cheol-su up close in Bangkok. Thrilling stuff!
Right? It’s bittersweet. Are you actually going to travel to see them?
I’m considering it! Would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What about you?
It’s too far for me, but holy moly, it sounds intense! I hope Netflix does this in more countries.
Isn’t it fascinating how much money goes into these promotions? It speaks volumes about globalization and fandom culture.
A bit too creepy for my taste. Dolls that big just scream ‘No, thank you!’ Still, props to their creativity.
I love the mix of reality and fiction Netflix is going for here. Remember when they floated a giant balloon for IT in Sydney?
Yeah, but something seems darker with Squid Game. I mean, the theme is death-oriented games!
Cheol-su joining Young-hee sounds like an epic combo for the finale. But I’m here wondering if the ending will satisfy everyone…
Series finales are always tricky. Hwang Dong-hyuk better not disappoint!
Using Young-hee and Cheol-su in Bangkok is quite the cultural statement. They’re icons now!
For sure! I think it’s amazing how they merge storytelling with pop culture impact.
Icons? That seems a bit much. They’re marketing tools, let’s be honest here.
People need to realize these giant dolls add to the series’ eerie narrative. It keeps you spooked everywhere!
Exactly! Adds to the whole ‘immerse yourself’ vibe. Love it!
I’m just glad Netflix is keeping the quality up. Season 3 will rock!
I’m focusing more on BTS coming to town than easing myself into Squid Game’s chills!
Haha, same! But I’m still going to watch Squid Game, it’s just too iconic to pass.
Young-hee and Cheol-su? Ever thought these characters would be so influential? It’s mind-blowing!
I’m not sure if I appreciate how pop culture can glorify violence. We should question this glorification more.
That’s a valid point. But can’t we appreciate the artistry while remaining critical?
With Squid Game, it’s always been about deeper societal interrogation. That’s a point folks often forget.
This kind of marketing gimmick is impressive but aren’t the lines between entertainment and reality a bit concerning?
It’s always been like that with horror or suspenseful narratives. It’s what draws us in…
All the Squid Game hype is something, but what about Thai traditional games? They’re fun too, without the, you know, peril.
True that! Thai games are mysteriously fun. Have you tried ‘E-Gar-Oi’?
I think Hwang Dong-hyuk is a master storyteller. Excited to see how he wraps it all up. Big shoes to fill with ‘Squid Game’.