In a striking blend of pop culture and public spectacle, Bangkok has become the stage for a larger-than-life promotion of Netflix’s global phenomenon “Squid Game” ahead of its third and final season. Two towering 12-meter statues of the series’ iconic dolls, Young-hee and the newly introduced Cheol-su, now stand in front of the historic Giant Swing and Wat Suthat Thepwararam temple, drawing crowds and sparking excitement. This immersive event, which includes a real-life skipping rope challenge, marks a unique collaboration between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Netflix, cementing the city’s status as a hub for international cultural moments.
A Colossal Return to Thailand
The return of Young-hee, affectionately known as Go Go Wa to Thai fans, is a nostalgic nod to her dramatic debut on the Chao Phraya River during the series’ initial launch last year. This time, however, she is joined by Cheol-su, a new character unveiled for the final season. Their 12-meter-tall figures, the largest of their kind globally, have set a world record for paired displays of this nature. Positioned at Lan Khon Mueang near the Giant Swing, the statues are not just static art but the centerpiece of an interactive event designed to bring the suspense of “Squid Game” to life. 
From June 28 to July 6, 2025, the public is invited to participate in a giant skipping rope game, with the colossal dolls symbolically swinging the rope. The activity, hosted by the BMA, is free to all, reflecting the city’s commitment to accessible outdoor art and cultural experiences. It follows a string of high-profile installations in Bangkok, such as the recent 18-meter KAWS “Companion” sculpture at Sanam Luang, which captivated locals and tourists alike last month.
Bringing the Final Game to Life
“Squid Game,” which has amassed a massive global following since its debut, is renowned for its chilling games and social commentary. With Season 3 set to premiere on Netflix on June 27, 2025, this Bangkok event offers fans an exclusive opportunity to step into the world of the series’ ultimate challenge. The skipping rope game, a nod to the childhood games reimagined with deadly stakes in the show, has been adapted for a thrilling yet safe public experience in the heart of the capital.
The choice of Bangkok as the host for this unprecedented promotion underscores Thailand’s growing reputation as a destination for unique cultural and entertainment events. The TAT has been instrumental in partnering with international brands like Netflix to boost tourism, leveraging the city’s vibrant public spaces and historic landmarks to create memorable spectacles. This event, in particular, highlights how pop culture can intersect with local heritage, as the dolls stand against the backdrop of one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples.
A Boost for Tourism and Community Engagement
The BMA’s decision to host the event at no cost to participants aligns with its broader mission to make art and culture accessible to all. Lan Khon Mueang, the open space in front of the BMA headquarters, has been transformed into a playground of suspense and excitement, inviting both locals and tourists to test their agility in the skipping rope challenge. Operating during specific hours from June 28 to July 6, the event is expected to draw significant crowds, further solidifying Bangkok’s appeal as a world-class tourist destination.
Beyond the thrill of the game, the presence of Young-hee and Cheol-su offers a moment of connection for fans of the series. Social media is already abuzz with photos and videos of the statues, with many expressing awe at their sheer scale and detailed craftsmanship. For international visitors, the event provides a unique cultural crossover, blending South Korean storytelling with Thai hospitality and public engagement.
Looking Ahead to Season 3
As the premiere of “Squid Game” Season 3 approaches, anticipation is building for how the series will conclude its gripping narrative. The introduction of Cheol-su alongside the familiar Young-hee hints at new dynamics and challenges in the final installment. While details of the plot remain under wraps, the Bangkok event suggests that the themes of childhood games and survival will continue to play a central role.
For now, the streets of Bangkok offer a tangible link to the fictional world of “Squid Game,” inviting fans to immerse themselves in its drama before the screen lights up with the final episodes. As the skipping rope swings and the crowds gather, this event is more than just a promotion—it’s a celebration of a cultural juggernaut that has captured imaginations worldwide, right in the heart of Thailand’s bustling capital.
