What is the Money in Squid Game Called?

Have you ever watched the gripping South Korean drama series, “Squid Game”? If so, you might have been intrigued by the mysterious currency used in the game. This article delves into the details of the money in Squid Game, exploring its origins, significance, and impact on the characters.

Origins of the Squid Game Currency

The currency used in Squid Game is called “Wan.” It is a fictional currency that serves as the main medium of exchange within the game. The origin of the name “Wan” is not explicitly mentioned in the series, but it is likely derived from the Korean word “毵孿” (man), which means “ten thousand” in English. This name suggests that the currency is worth ten thousand South Korean won (KRW) in real life.

Significance of the Currency

The currency in Squid Game holds immense importance for the contestants. It is the driving force behind their participation in the deadly games. Here are some key aspects of the currency’s significance:

• Survival: The primary goal of the contestants is to win the games and collect as much money as possible. The more money they win, the better their chances of survival and a better life for their families.

• Power: The currency also represents power. The richer the contestants become, the more influence they have over others. This power can be used to manipulate the game’s rules or even threaten other players.

• Hope: For many contestants, the currency symbolizes hope. It represents the possibility of a better future for themselves and their families. This hope is what drives them to endure the harsh realities of the game.

Impact on the Characters

The currency in Squid Game has a profound impact on the characters, shaping their actions, decisions, and relationships. Here are some examples:

• Cho Kwon-ju: Cho is a struggling debt collector who joins the game to pay off his family’s debts. The currency becomes his primary motivation, pushing him to survive and win at all costs.

• Gi-hun: Gi-hun is a former professional gambler who joins the game to save his daughter. The currency represents his hope for a better life for his child, driving him to overcome his gambling addiction and face the challenges ahead.

• Debts and Family: Many contestants are driven by the desire to pay off their debts or provide for their families. The currency becomes a symbol of their struggles and the lengths they are willing to go to achieve their goals.

The Squid Game Economy

Within the context of Squid Game, the economy is driven by the currency. Here are some key aspects of the Squid Game economy:

• Exchange Rates: The exchange rate between the fictional Wan and the real-life South Korean won (KRW) is not explicitly mentioned. However, it is implied that the currency is worth a significant amount of money in real life.

• Black Market: As the game progresses, a black market emerges where contestants can trade goods and services. This black market is driven by the currency and serves as a source of power and influence for some characters.

• Debt and Credit: Some contestants accumulate debt during the game, which can be used to their advantage or become a burden. The currency also plays a role in credit, as some characters borrow money from others to increase their chances of winning.

The Role of the Currency in the Series’ Themes

The currency in Squid Game serves as a powerful tool to explore various themes throughout the series. Here are some of the key themes:

• Class and Inequality: The currency highlights the stark class divide and the struggle for survival in a society where wealth and power are concentrated in the hands of a few.

• Human Nature: The currency exposes the darker aspects of human nature, such as greed, ambition, and the willingness to do anything for money.

• Societal Pressure: The currency represents the pressure to conform to societal expectations and the consequences of failing to do so.

Conclusion

The currency in Squid Game, known as “Wan,” plays a crucial role in the series. It serves as