‘Squid game’ actor Lee Jung-jae makes history at Emmys

Netflix's superhit series, "Squid Game", has made history at the Emmys by bagging a total of six awards. In the process, Lee Jung-jae has become the first Asian actor to win the 'Best Actor' in a drama series award.

Lee Jung-jae is the fourth Asian actor to win an award at the Emmys. He was nominated alongside popular actors like Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), Jason Bateman (Ozark), Adam Scott (Severance), and Brian Cox and Jeremy Strong (Succession).

When accepting the award, Lee spoke in English and Korean, and thanked the almighty as well as streaming giant Netflix.

"Thank you to the Television Academy, thank you to Netflix and thank you to the director, for making realistic problems we all face come to life so creatively on the screen with a great script. Thank you, 'Squid Game' team. Thank you to everyone watching in Korea," said the actor in his acceptance speech.

"Squid Game" director Hwang Dong-hyuk also bagged the 'Best Director' in a drama series award. The director became emotional upon winning the award.

"People keep telling me that I made history, but I don't think I made history by myself because it was you who opened up the doors for 'Squid Game,' inviting us here tonight at the Emmys. I have to say we all made history together. I truly hope that 'Squid Game' won't be the last non-English series to be here at the Emmys, and I also hope this won't be my last Emmy either. I'll be back with Season 2," said Hwang in his speech.

"Squid Game" premiered to outstanding reviews and critical acclaim upon its release on Netflix in September, 2021. The series has now been renewed for a second season.