Three things about Squid Game really impressed me:

1) Despite borrowing extensively from other stories, it manages to be original in it's own right. Also I admire the Kubrick-homage stylistics - slow motion, choice of music, set design, etc. Reminded me of everything from 2001: A Space Odyssey to A Clockwork Orange and Eyes Wide Shut.

2) A fascinating insight into the Korean debt crisis.

3) A fairly profound insight into the depravity of human nature, in terms of where an unchecked pursuit of hedonism can end. Kind of like the Roman Games.