Netflix’s Squid Game has done it again. With the release of Squid Game Season 3 in June 2025, the series smashed records—racking up over 60.1 million views and 368.4 million hours watched in just 3 days. What began as a brutal survival drama has become a global cultural phenomenon, transcending language, geography, and industries.

But beyond the gripping plot and shocking twists lies a deeper question for every company and professional in Singapore:

What can we learn from Squid Game’s success—and how can we apply it to thrive in today’s competitive landscape?

The Secret Formula Behind Squid Game’s Global Success

1. Universal Struggles, Local Relevance

At its core, Squid Game reflects the pressures of modern society—relentless competition, survival under stress, and the desperate pursuit of opportunity. These are not just fictional struggles; they mirror real workplace and career challenges faced by workers and companies in Singapore and across the world.

When we talk about job insecurity, income gaps, and rising competition, these are realities that resonate here too. Whether you're an SME struggling to stay agile, or a worker navigating layoffs and skills disruptions, the core message hits close to home.

2. Masterclass in Storytelling and Branding

Netflix didn’t just release a show—they created a movement. Through viral marketing, immersive events, and clever use of social media (including TikTok, LinkedIn, and Instagram), Squid Game became more than a series—it became an identity.

• Pop-up events were staged in more than 25 countries.
• Themed cafes, escape rooms, and social media challenges drove a 273,000+ global turnout for fan experiences.
• In Singapore, local collaborations and fan-driven content helped the show go viral faster than most major Hollywood blockbusters.

For businesses, this is a lesson in emotional branding: If your story resonates, your audience becomes your advocate.

3. Production Quality that Sets Standards

Squid Game’s meticulous production, symbolic set designs, and emotionally charged narratives set it apart. In a world flooded with content, quality wins.

It’s the same in recruitment and business: offering the bare minimum isn’t enough. Whether it's the employee experience, customer service, or your company culture—how you deliver matters as much as what you deliver.

Career and Business Lessons from Squid Game for Singapore Professionals and Companies

1. Adapt or Get Left Behind

In the series, every game is different. Players who can’t adapt — lose. It’s no different in today’s job market.

• For workers: Are you upskilling? AI, automation, and green economy shifts are reshaping industries.
• For businesses: Agility isn’t optional. Whether it’s embracing remote work, digital transformation, or sustainable practices—being stuck in old models can be fatal.

2. Collaboration Over Cutthroat Competition

Despite the brutal competition, alliances form in Squid Game. Collaboration often becomes the key to survival.

• For companies: Cross-department collaboration, partnerships, and team cohesion matter more than siloed thinking.
• For workers: Networking, mentorship, and peer support can be career game-changers. Lone wolves risk burnout.

3. Resilience Built on Ethics and Trust

The most disturbing part of Squid Game is watching how trust is betrayed. It’s a reminder: when ethics crumble, everything else falls apart.

• For businesses: Reputation is currency. Fair hiring, transparent leadership, and ethical decisions are essential to retaining talent and clients.
• For individuals: Integrity still matters. Shortcuts might deliver quick wins but often lead to long-term losses.

4. Prioritise Mental Wellness — Or Pay the Price

The psychological toll on Squid Game’s characters mirrors a very real problem in workplaces today. A 2024 survey by Mercer found that 54% of workers in Singapore cite stress and burnout as their top challenges, rising sharply from previous years.

• For companies: A wellness strategy isn’t a perk—it’s survival. Hybrid work policies, mental health days, and supportive leadership are becoming non-negotiable.
• For workers: Setting boundaries, seeking support, and maintaining work-life balance isn’t weakness—it’s resilience.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever in Singapore

Singapore’s labour market is evolving rapidly. As of Q1 2025:

• Job vacancies remain tight across high-skill sectors like tech, healthcare, and green energy.
• But retrenchments rose by 11%, especially in sectors slow to adapt to automation and AI.
• Companies that focus on adaptability, skills development, and employee well-being show significantly lower attrition rates (by up to 23%) than those that don’t.

In other words, survival isn’t just about having the best product or skill—it’s about adaptability, collaboration, ethics, and well-being.

FAQs – Squid Game 3 and Its Workplace Lessons

Q1: How is Squid Game 3 relevant to my career?

Squid Game highlights the need for adaptability, resilience, and collaboration—skills essential for navigating career shifts, layoffs, or industry disruptions.

Q2: What can Singapore companies learn from Squid Game’s success?

A focus on storytelling, branding, and emotional connection can drive customer loyalty and employee engagement. It’s not just about products; it’s about purpose.

Q3: How important is mental well-being in today’s job market?

Extremely. Companies that support employee well-being see higher productivity, lower attrition, and better employer branding.

Q4: What does Squid Game teach about teamwork?

That even in competitive environments, teamwork often determines success or failure. Collaboration beats competition.

Q5: How can I future-proof my career in Singapore?

Focus on upskilling (digital, AI, sustainability), networking, and prioritising mental wellness while choosing companies aligned with your values.

 

Ready to Play the Game — But Smarter?

At Reeracoen, we help Singapore professionals and businesses thrive—not just survive—in today’s changing world.

👉 For Employers: Find the right talent today
👉 For Job Seekers: Discover career opportunities now

 

 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in our blog articles is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. 

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the ever-evolving nature of certain topics may result in content becoming outdated or inaccurate over time. Therefore, we recommend consulting with qualified professionals or experts in the respective fields for specific advice or guidance. Any actions taken based on the information contained in our blog articles are solely at the reader's discretion and risk. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences incurred as a result of such actions.

We may occasionally provide links to external websites or resources for further information or reference. These links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement or responsibility for the content or accuracy of these external sources. Our blog articles may also include personal opinions, views, or interpretations of the authors, which do not necessarily reflect the views of our organisation as a whole. We encourage readers to verify the accuracy and relevance of information presented in our blog articles and to seek professional advice when needed. Your use of this website and its content constitutes acceptance of this disclaimer.

 

References

• The Guardian – Squid Game season three breaks Netflix viewership record with 60.1m views
• The Viewers Perspective – Squid Game Season 3 Breaks Records with Global Premiere and Fan-Fuelled Frenzy
• Forbes – The Secret To The Success Of 'Squid Game,' Explained
• VentureBright – Squid Game: A Successful Model For Innovation
• Mercer – Singapore Workforce Trends Report 2024
• LinkedIn – Squid Game 101: Career Lessons They Don’t Teach in Business School
• Wikipedia – Squid Game
• Wikipedia – Squid Game Season 3