Squid Game Series
The Non-Existent Prequel
Status: Completely Fake Rumor | Reported Release: Winter 2026 (Fake)
Squid Game 1987 was a rumored prequel series that allegedly would explore the origins of the Squid Game organization, set in the year 1987. Despite significant online buzz and inclusion in viral "cinematic universe" timelines, this project has been officially confirmed as a fabrication with no basis in reality.
Origins of the Rumor
The rumor about Squid Game 1987 originated from a viral image that began circulating on social media in early 2025. This image, designed to resemble official franchise expansion timelines like those used by Marvel Studios, depicted an elaborate "Squid Game Cinematic Universe" with multiple interconnected projects scheduled through 2028.
The fake timeline included specific dates and project descriptions that seemed plausible to fans eager for more Squid Game content. The Squid Game 1987 entry specifically claimed it would be a prequel exploring the early days of the organization and how it evolved to become the entity featured in the original series.
Why Fans Believed It
Fan Desire for More Content
Following the global success of the original series, fans were eager for any continuation or expansion of the story.
Realistic Presentation
The viral timeline was professionally designed and included specific details that made it appear authentic.
Creator Hints
Hwang Dong-hyuk had expressed general interest in spin-offs, making the rumor seem plausible.
Official Debunking
In January 2025, Netflix officially debunked the "Squid Game Cinematic Universe" timeline, including the Squid Game 1987 project. The streaming service confirmed that:
- The viral timeline image was completely fake
- No project titled "Squid Game 1987" was in development
- Only two additional projects were officially confirmed:
- Squid Game USA (David Fincher adaptation)
- Squid Game: The Challenge Season 2
Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk also clarified that while he had considered prequel possibilities, no concrete plans for a 1987-set series existed.
What the Rumor Claimed
虚构内容 - Fictional Claims
According to the debunked rumor, Squid Game 1987 would have been:
- A prequel series set in 1987, exploring the origins of the Squid Game organization
- Focused on early recruiters and staff members like Captain Park
- Developed to show how the games evolved from simpler beginnings
- Connected to the main timeline through character backstories
- Scheduled for release in Winter 2026
Why It Would Have Been Appealing
If Squid Game 1987 were real, it would have offered fans:
Character Backstories
Exploration of villains' origins
Historical Context
Insight into South Korea in the 1980s
Expanded Universe
Broader view of the Squid Game organization
Fan Community Response
Even after the official debunking, discussions about what Squid Game 1987 could have been continue in fan communities:
"While we know it's not real, it's interesting to think about what a 1987 prequel could have explored. The economic climate of that era in South Korea would have provided rich storytelling opportunities." — Fan Discussion Forum
Some fans have created fan fiction and concept art imagining what this series might have looked like, keeping the spirit of the idea alive in the community despite its fictional status.
Lessons Learned
The Squid Game 1987 rumor serves as a case study in how misinformation spreads online:
- Professional presentation can make fake information seem credible
- Fan enthusiasm can lead to uncritical sharing of unverified claims
- Official sources should always be consulted for major announcements
- Viral content should be approached with skepticism