Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- acclaim /uh-KLEYM/
- protagonist /proh-TAG-uh-nist/
- dismantle /dis-MAN-tl/
- speculative /SPEK-yuh-luh-tiv/
- high-stakes /hahy-stayks/
[noun] – public approval and praise
The artist received widespread acclaim for her innovative sculpture.
[noun] – one of the main characters in a story or a play
In the novel, the protagonist faces numerous challenges on their journey to self-discovery.
[verb] – to take apart or break down something into pieces
The new policy aims to dismantle the network of illegal operations that have been harming the environment.
[adjective] – based on conjecture or incomplete information
Many investors were hesitant due to the speculative nature of the new technology.
[adjective] – involving the possible loss of a large amount of money
The high-stakes negotiations resulted in a deal that benefited both sides.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The much-awaited second season of “Squid Game” will return with heightened intensity, promising new characters and even more captivating games, according to creator Hwang Dong-hyuk. Speaking at a global promotional event held in Lucca, Italy, Hwang revealed that a third season is already in post-production, with an English-language adaptation potentially in the works. Following its 2021 debut, the Korean thriller rapidly gained global acclaim, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series and earning Emmy awards for Hwang and lead actor Lee Jung-jae. The second season, scheduled to premiere on December 26, revisits protagonist Seong Gi-hun as he enters the deadly competition once more, not for personal gain but to dismantle the organization behind the life-or-death games.
In this new season, which takes place three years after the first, Gi-hun’s motivations are more complex. According to Hwang, Gi-hun has evolved into a character seeking revenge against those responsible for the brutal games, showcasing a significant departure from his former self. Actor Lee Jung-jae mentioned that portraying Gi-hun’s transformation posed a new challenge, as his character now approaches the competition with a sense of justice. Reports have also circulated about an American adaptation led by director David Fincher, known for “Fight Club.” While details remain speculative, Hwang expressed enthusiasm about the potential collaboration, hinting that the series’ expansion into new territories could further elevate its cultural impact. “Squid Game’s” return signifies not only the continuation of a global phenomenon but also a critical exploration of social disparity, human survival, and moral boundaries within a high-stakes game.
In this new season, which takes place three years after the first, Gi-hun’s motivations are more complex. According to Hwang, Gi-hun has evolved into a character seeking revenge against those responsible for the brutal games, showcasing a significant departure from his former self. Actor Lee Jung-jae mentioned that portraying Gi-hun’s transformation posed a new challenge, as his character now approaches the competition with a sense of justice. Reports have also circulated about an American adaptation led by director David Fincher, known for “Fight Club.” While details remain speculative, Hwang expressed enthusiasm about the potential collaboration, hinting that the series’ expansion into new territories could further elevate its cultural impact. “Squid Game’s” return signifies not only the continuation of a global phenomenon but also a critical exploration of social disparity, human survival, and moral boundaries within a high-stakes game.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever been interested in a show or series from a different culture or language? If so, what did you enjoy most about it, and what did you learn from it? If not, would you be open to watching a foreign series like “Squid Game”? Why or why not?
- Have you ever followed a show or movie series that has multiple seasons? If so, what kept you interested in watching more, and did the story feel fresh in each season? If not, why not?
- Do you agree that exploring dark or challenging themes in a show like “Squid Game” can raise awareness of real-world social issues?
- Why do you think people are so interested in shows that explore intense and challenging themes?
- How do you think such themes might influence how viewers see their own society?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- captivating
- most-watched
- competition
- phenomenon
- collaboration