By Honorary Reporter Solaleh Emami from Iran

The hit Netflix series "Squid Game" left an unforgettable mark on the world not only as a cultural phenomenon but a groundbreaking work in global entertainment. 

David Sayers, a British actor who played one of the K-drama's masked VIPs, added an eerie layer to the story's intense plot and atmosphere. Trained in acting at the now-defunct Poor School in London, he is a veteran actor with 41 credits per the Internet Movie Database. 

The following are excerpts from an email interview with Sayers from July 7-16 on his involvement with "Squid Game." 

Actor David Sayers plays Richard, one of the masked VIPs in the global hit K-drama "Squid Game." (David Sayers and Netflix)

Briefly introduce yourself.
I was raised in southern England and pursued both university and drama school in London. I've been acting for over 20 years, starting with the London fringe before touring the U.K. and internationally in various productions. Over time, I've transitioned into film and appeared in numerous projects, some of which have received recognition and awards around the world.

How did you get cast in the series' final season?
Like many, I simply auditioned for the project, although it was listed under another title to maintain secrecy. I submitted a self-tape using dialogue from the season one VIPs and didn’t expect to hear back until a month later, when a casting agency in Seoul offered me the role. Initially in disbelief, it only felt real once flights and contracts were being arranged.

David Sayers as Richard at the VIP room in "Squid Game" (David Sayers)

How did you prepare to portray your mysterious character?
The VIPs stand apart from other characters in the series due to their elite status and mystery. The script didn't give any hints about their history, but it was clear that they represented certain "types" from the world wealth pool. I envisioned my character Richard as an Englishman with a privileged upbringing and conservative politics. I approached the role with arrogance and confidence, portraying someone for whom the game was less about stakes and more about entertainment, much like placing a bet on a horse race.

What insights did you gain on the K-drama's larger themes or social commentary?
I saw the VIPs as symbols of real-world societal types in a world where inequality continues to grow. I believe the series' scenario, while fictional, doesn't seem far from real-world inequality. While I remain optimistic about humanity, the series acts as a cautionary tale, urging us to confront global inequality and recognize everyone as human beings with equal rights.

What reactions have you received from fans worldwide?
I've had some nice comments and gained new followers, while some felt the VIPs spoiled the series. I agree that our lines weren't as natural as the rest of the script, but we had to perform in front of blue screens most of the time without live interaction, making the work more challenging. I'm not sure the fans around the world fully understand how it was shot and what we had to work with. Hopefully this gives them a clearer idea.

How has being in "Squid Game" affected your acting career?

It's still bizarre to me to think that I've been part of something seen by so many people. That's certainly never happened to me before and I'm not sure it'll ever happen again. I hope it'll lead on to other TV and film work, but can't imagine any future projects having such exposure. When it was confirmed that it had been viewed by over 60 million viewers over the first weekend, that blew my mind.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.