6 Financial Lessons To Learn From "Squid Game"

"Squid Game," the hit Korean Drama on Netflix, has become immensely popular across the globe. This survival-thriller and drama series is set to become the most-watched show in Netflix's history.

This hit Netflix show doesn't simply focus on the games themselves. It also encapsulates various life lessons that you can practice and apply in the real world. Although the nine-episode series highlights how contestants clenched their teeth to secure the grand prize, there are lessons about personal finance and money management that everyone could pick up along the way.

Here are a few resonating lessons that you should keep in mind (note: some tips may contain spoilers):

2. Never Sink into Debt

"Squid Game" tells the story of 456 people from various walks of life who take part in a children's game competition - but with their lives at stake. The majority of the players, unfortunately, are deep into debt. The game gives these people a chance to win 45.6 billion won (approximately 38 million US dollars).

The show highlights the importance of managing your finances wisely. Before taking out any kind of loan, you'll need to think about how you're going to pay it back properly.

3. Avoid Loan Sharks

Borrowing money can be addicting to some people. The more they obtain money from others, the more they become obsessed with it. They fail to realize that this never-ending cycle is slowly consuming them. Tons of debt awaits them in the end.

When people need to borrow money, some turn to banks. These financial institutions, however, have stringent regulations. These banks check credit histories to determine if the borrower can pay off the loan.

When the bank rejects borrowers, some resort to loan sharks - and this is where the nightmare begins. Loan sharks, while appearing friendly and accommodating, quickly trap their borrowers into a never-ending cycle of spiraling debts through intimidation, violence and threats.

This brings people to the next money lesson - never transact with loan sharks. If you need money to buy something, you'll need to save for it and look for ways to bump up your business revenue or take-home pay. Acquiring money from loan sharks is never a good solution.

4. Separate Your Needs from Your Wants

Many of the characters in "Squid Game" have different backstories on why they ended up participating in the life-of-death game. Most of them, however, failed to prioritize their needs from their wants. This, sadly, resulted in a huge debt.

A good example is the main protagonist of the story. Instead of coming up with a strategy to pay back what he owes, he spends his money betting on horses.

Separating your wants from your needs is a basic form of saving money. You need to identify the things that matter the most in your life. If you want to travel to another country but need money to pay for your child's college education, for instance, you shouldn't build a travel fund. Instead, you need to look for ways to save and earn more money for your child's future.

5. Invest Wisely

Some people enjoy investing their hard-earned money in different companies that could help them raise the probability of having a huge income. Income in investments, however, is not stable. You'll need to take risks to reach your desired outcome.

One of the contestants in Squid Game told the protagonist to avoid placing all their eggs in the same basket. This means not putting your money in the same investment instrument or product. As much as possible, divide or diversify your money into several products to minimize risk.

6. Financial Stability Isn't Overnight

No single game can ever solve your financial worries. Fulfilling the needs of your family, buying both your needs and wants and not having the thought of approaching loan sharks are milestones that you can never acquire in just a snap.

"Squid Game" has taught people how to strive better even if the world treats people unequally and unfairly. Remember that a success story doesn't come quickly. Success can take years or even decades to materialize. People aiming for financial success need to be wise and diligent. They also need to know how to handle their finances effectively.

Money Isn't Everything

The protagonist, in the final episode, asked the mastermind in his deathbed why he purposely created the game. The latter responded that even if you're rich, you'll still end up having a miserable life, in which money can't suffice.

"Squid Game" isn't merely about surviving. It's also about seeing the beauty in small things. Even if you have millions or billions in your bank account, it's useless if you're not happy with your life.

This hit Netflix show does more than provide entertainment. It teaches money and life lessons, as well. Even if life is tough and rough, there will always be a solution to all the chaos that people are struggling with. They just need to work hard and think wisely to meet the finish line.