Squid Game Meets Duolingo: The Ultimate Pop Culture Language Mashup
When Squid Game hit Netflix in 2021, it became an instant global phenomenon. With a jaw-dropping 2.2 billion hours of watch time, the series quickly climbed the ranks to become one of the platform’s most-watched shows. The dystopian imagery of its red jumpsuits and eerie masks sparked a wave of merchandise and themed events around the world. Even more impressive, the show triggered a 40% surge in people wanting to learn Korean. That kind of cultural ripple effect was bound to catch the attention of one very persistent green owl.
Enter Duolingo, the world’s leading language-learning app and unofficial cheerleader for all things multilingual. Known for its quirky, slightly menacing mascot, Duo the Owl, the app has a knack for capitalizing on international media hits. So it’s no surprise that Squid Game landed on its radar after dominating global pop culture. Fast forward three years, and as Netflix releases Squid Game Season 2, Duolingo has officially joined forces with the franchise.
The partnership is packed with creative tie-ins, including in-app animated content and Squid Game-themed Korean phrases. But the real showstopper is a live-action ad titled “Korean or Get Eaten.” The spot features an inflatable Duo dancing alongside the Pink Guards—complete with Duolingo’s face on their masks—creating a surreal, yet perfectly fitting crossover.
In true Squid Game fashion, the ad cranks up the tension (and hilarity). Duo, known for its relentless streak notifications, transforms into an omniscient enforcer. Accompanied by the Pink Guard, the owl dances to a remixed version of the series’ iconic theme, creating a bizarrely captivating scene that’s equal parts entertaining and intimidating.
The message? Miss a Duolingo lesson at your own risk. Duo—and now the Duo Guard—are watching. Finish your lesson, or prepare for the consequences.
- SOURCE: Duolingo
- BRAND: Squid Game, Duolingo

Follow Zach on Speaking Human / Human Content from Zach