Squid Game 2 Makes 90s Korean Pop Anthem Go Viral — Don’t Miss DAY6’s Cover

Netflix’s original series Squid Game Season 2 is sweeping the globe, further solidifying the dominance of K-content. But the buzz isn’t just about the story and direction—it’s also about the resurgence of Shin Hae-chul’s classic song To You. Featured in the Netflix series, the track has left a powerful impression on global fans, earning a spot on countless playlists and showcasing the charm of "old Korean songs."

Originally performed by Shin Hae-chul’s band Infinite Track, To You debuted in 1988 as the grand prize-winning song at the MBC College Music Festival and was officially released in 1991. With themes of love and encouragement, the song became a hit among college students at the time and soon became Korea’s go-to anthem for school events and festivals.

Now, over 30 years later, To You has been rediscovered through Squid Game 2, where it was used as background music for a pivotal scene in Episode 5. The powerful vocals of Shin Hae-chul broke the silence during the group relay game, delivering an unforgettable emotional impact. Foreign viewers, encountering the song for the first time, were captivated, describing it as an energetic and stirring anthem.

In an interview with Max Movie, series creator and director Hwang Dong-hyuk shared why he chose To You for the drama: "It was about confidence and guts. With the success of Season 1, I felt emboldened. I thought people would want to find out more about the song, and since it’s a well-known anthem in Korea, I felt confident including it."

To You is more than a simple anthem—it carries a message of love and dedication. Lyrics like, "Until the day my life ends, I will always be by your side," deliver a powerful and heartfelt message of encouragement. The song’s majestic intro and uplifting melody naturally evoke both emotion and energy, making a strong impression on international audiences.

The enduring national significance of To You shines in a contemporary rendition performed and arranged by K-pop rock band DAY6. Under JYP Entertainment, DAY6 comprises four members: Sungjin, Young K, Wonpil, and Dowoon. The band showcased their unique pop-rock sound as guest performers on the “Our Festival” episode of Hangout With Yoo. Their live cover of To You struck a chord with fans and viewers alike, earning enthusiastic praise from MC Yoo Jae-suk and other cast members.

The global resurgence of To You, 35 years after its release, reflects the universal appeal of its message and music. The success of the song demonstrates the limitless potential of K-content, proving that even older works can transcend time and borders when paired with the right context.

This unexpected "reverse run" of To You is not just a musical success but a testament to the enduring power of Korean culture to connect with audiences worldwide.