Netflix has a new all-time launch champ and it’s no surprise who claimed the throne. Squid Game, the global K-drama juggernaut, returned for its third season and wasted no time making history.
According to Netflix’s latest viewership data, Squid Game: Season 3 pulled in a massive 60.1 million views within its first three days, setting a new record for the streaming giant’s biggest TV debut in that timeframe.
In total, the season clocked 368.4 million hours watched, edging past previous record holders like The Night Agent and Bridgerton when it comes to early engagement.
For context, Netflix defines a “view” as the total number of hours watched divided by the total runtime — so those 60.1 million views suggest millions of viewers binged the entire season immediately after release.
The achievement pushes Squid Game even further into the pop culture stratosphere. Since its explosive first season premiere in 2021, the series has consistently delivered high-stakes drama, razor-sharp social commentary, and global intrigue.
Season 2 was no slouch either. It raked in 68 million views over its first four days. Season 3, however, outpaced that in just three, making its performance all the more impressive.
This launch also cements Squid Game Season 3 as the ninth most-watched TV season in Netflix history, based on total viewing hours. While Netflix’s ranking algorithm often favors longer-running shows or miniseries with more episodes, Squid Game continues to stand out for its binge-worthy pacing and international appeal.
Netflix hasn’t released a detailed demographic breakdown, but viewership from Asia— including the Philippines— likely played a significant role in the show’s meteoric rise. The series’ creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, previously acknowledged the Southeast Asian audience as one of its most passionate and engaged.
Aside from viewership milestones, Season 3’s early success is also a case study in how Netflix’s evolving metrics shape the conversation.
With the platform now emphasizing “views” alongside total hours watched, shows that can drive immediate, full-season engagement are being rewarded more visibly and Squid Game is clearly leading the charge.
Series creator Hwang Dong-Hyuk shared that if Netflix reaches out again for another season, he’s going to work with them again and lead it but Netflix has yet to confirm a Season 4, nor a US remake.
Nonetheless, the numbers speak for themselves. If the show’s record-breaking momentum holds, it’s not a question of if we’ll return to the deadly games — but when.
