Bangkok Becomes the Stage for ‘Squid Game’ Season 3’s Grand Finale
Bangkok is once again at the center of a global pop culture spectacle as the world’s largest ‘Squid Game’ dolls—Go Go Wa (Younghee) and her new companion Cheolsu—take over the city in a dramatic, immersive event. This unique installation, set at Lan Khon Mueang in front of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) building near the iconic Giant Swing, marks the highly anticipated launch of ‘Squid Game’ Season 3, the final chapter of the record-breaking Netflix series. The event, running from June 28 to July 6, 2025, offers fans and visitors a chance to step into the suspenseful world of ‘Squid Game’—without the deadly stakes.
With the collaboration of the BMA, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Netflix, this public art installation not only celebrates the series’ global impact but also reinforces Bangkok’s reputation as a vibrant, world-class tourist and cultural destination. The event is free and open to the public, inviting everyone to participate in a real-life version of the show’s iconic skipping rope game, with the two towering dolls swinging the rope for daring participants.
How ‘Squid Game’ Became a Global Sensation
‘Squid Game’ burst onto the international scene in 2021, created by South Korean director Hwang Dong-hyuk. The series quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its gripping narrative, social commentary, and unforgettable imagery. The story revolves around financially desperate contestants who compete in traditional children’s games for a massive cash prize—only to discover that losing means a fatal end. The show’s blend of suspense, social critique, and striking visuals, such as the now-iconic animatronic doll Younghee, propelled it to the top of Netflix’s charts worldwide.
Following the success of its first season, ‘Squid Game’ continued to build momentum with a second season, and now, the third and final season is set to premiere globally on June 27, 2025. The series’ influence extends far beyond television, inspiring real-life events, themed attractions, and even global fan competitions.
The Giant Dolls: Go Go Wa and Cheolsu—Symbols of Suspense and Spectacle
The centerpiece of Bangkok’s event is the pair of colossal dolls: Go Go Wa (the local name for Younghee) and Cheolsu. Standing at an astonishing 12 meters tall, these figures are the largest of their kind in the world. Their imposing presence is both a tribute to the show’s visual legacy and a testament to the city’s ability to host world-class public art installations.
Go Go Wa first made her appearance in Thailand during the launch of the series’ earlier seasons, memorably arriving by boat on the Chao Phraya River, accompanied by masked guards in pink jumpsuits—a direct nod to the show’s chilling aesthetic. The animatronic doll could turn her head and emit a red laser light from her eyes, recreating the eerie atmosphere that made her a global icon. This time, she returns with Cheolsu, a male counterpart introduced in the final scenes of Season 2, hinting at new twists and challenges in the series’ conclusion.
Immersive Fan Experience: The Skipping Rope Challenge
At the heart of the event is the interactive skipping rope game, inspired by the children’s games featured in ‘Squid Game.’ Participants are invited to test their agility and reflexes as the two giant dolls swing a massive rope. The challenge is designed to evoke the tension and excitement of the series, but in a safe and family-friendly environment.
The activity is open to the public during specific hours: Saturdays and Sundays (June 28-29 & July 5-6) from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Mondays to Fridays (June 30 – July 4) from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Entry is free, but participants must adhere to safety regulations: players must be at least 120 centimeters tall, wear appropriate close-fitting attire and suitable footwear (no high heels, sandals, or slippery-soled shoes), and refrain from running or pushing. Those with certain medical conditions, including heart issues, high blood pressure, epilepsy, or pregnancy, are not permitted to participate.
Bangkok’s Tradition of Outdoor Art and Cultural Events
This ‘Squid Game’ installation is the latest in a series of high-profile outdoor art events in Bangkok. Just last month, the city hosted an 18-meter KAWS ‘Companion’ sculpture at Sanam Luang, drawing thousands of visitors and art enthusiasts. These initiatives are part of the BMA’s ongoing mission to make contemporary art accessible to the public and to enhance Bangkok’s profile as a leading cultural and tourist destination.
By bringing together art, entertainment, and global pop culture, Bangkok continues to position itself as a dynamic city that embraces creativity and innovation. The ‘Squid Game’ dolls, with their dramatic scale and interactive appeal, exemplify this spirit and offer a unique experience for both locals and international visitors.
Global Context: ‘Squid Game’ Events Around the World
The Bangkok event is part of a broader wave of ‘Squid Game’ fan experiences taking place worldwide to celebrate the final season. According to Travel + Leisure Asia, similar events are being held in cities such as Newcastle (UK), Jakarta (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines), and Seoul (South Korea). However, Bangkok’s installation stands out for its scale, interactivity, and the exclusive presence of both Go Go Wa and Cheolsu—the only place in the world where fans can see and engage with these record-breaking figures.
This global rollout of fan events underscores the series’ universal appeal and the creative ways in which its themes and imagery have been adapted for real-world experiences. In each location, fans are invited to participate in games, take photos with iconic props, and immerse themselves in the world of ‘Squid Game’—all while building anticipation for the series’ dramatic conclusion.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Pop Culture Landmark
The creation and installation of the giant dolls required close collaboration between Netflix, the BMA, and the TAT. The project involved not only the design and construction of the animatronic figures but also careful planning to ensure public safety, accessibility, and a memorable visitor experience. The dolls’ arrival by boat on the Chao Phraya River, accompanied by actors dressed as the series’ masked guards, was a logistical feat that captured the imagination of the city and generated significant buzz on social media.
Local news outlets and social media platforms have been abuzz with excitement, as fans flock to the installation for selfies, group photos, and a chance to participate in the skipping rope challenge. The event has also attracted international attention, with coverage from media outlets in Germany, the UK, and across Asia, highlighting Bangkok’s unique role in the global ‘Squid Game’ phenomenon.
Tips for Visitors: Making the Most of the Experience
For those planning to visit the giant ‘Squid Game’ dolls in Bangkok, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
- Plan Your Visit: Check the event schedule and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during peak hours.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothes and suitable footwear to participate in the skipping rope challenge.
- Capture the Moment: Bring your camera or smartphone to take memorable photos with the towering dolls and the vibrant event backdrop.
- Engage with Other Fans: Share your excitement and experiences with fellow visitors—‘Squid Game’ has a passionate global community.
- Stay Updated: Follow local news and social media for any updates or changes to the event schedule.
- Respect Safety Guidelines: Adhere to all health and safety regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Nearby attractions, such as the Giant Swing and ICONSIAM, offer additional opportunities for sightseeing, dining, and shopping, making the event a perfect addition to any Bangkok itinerary.
The Broader Impact: Art, Tourism, and Cultural Exchange
The ‘Squid Game’ dolls event is more than just a promotional stunt—it reflects the growing intersection of entertainment, art, and tourism in the 21st century. By transforming a fictional world into a tangible, interactive experience, the event blurs the lines between screen and reality, inviting fans to become active participants in the story.
For Bangkok, hosting such a high-profile event brings significant benefits: increased tourism, global media attention, and a boost to the city’s cultural credentials. It also demonstrates the power of international collaboration, as local authorities, tourism agencies, and global entertainment companies work together to create unforgettable experiences.
As the final season of ‘Squid Game’ approaches, the excitement generated by the Bangkok installation is likely to ripple across the world, inspiring similar events and reinforcing the series’ status as a defining cultural moment of the decade.
In Summary
- Bangkok is hosting the world’s largest ‘Squid Game’ dolls—Go Go Wa (Younghee) and Cheolsu—in a dramatic public installation to celebrate the final season of the Netflix series.
- The event runs from June 28 to July 6, 2025, at Lan Khon Mueang, near the Giant Swing, and features an interactive skipping rope challenge open to the public for free.
- The installation is part of a global wave of ‘Squid Game’ fan events, but Bangkok’s display is unique for its scale, interactivity, and exclusive pairing of the two giant dolls.
- The event highlights Bangkok’s growing reputation as a hub for outdoor art, cultural events, and international tourism.
- Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, follow safety guidelines, and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- The ‘Squid Game’ dolls event exemplifies the fusion of entertainment, art, and tourism, offering fans a chance to step into the world of one of the decade’s most influential series.
