As audiences wait for the second season of Squid Game to hit Netflix, the streaming giant is working hard to keep fans in the loop with a reality show based on the popular Korean survival drama series. Unfortunately, the in-development show is already generating controversy way before it comes close to coming out.

Squid Game: The Challenge features 456 contestants from around the world competing in a series of challenges inspired by and taken directly from the hit show in exchange for a shot at the $4.56 million cash prize. With this much money on the line, most are willing to take certain risks.

But, as one contestant told The Sun, "Even if hypothermia kicked in the people were willing to stay for as long as possible because a lot of money was on the line. Too many were determined not to move so they stood there for far too long. There were arriving thinking they were going to be millionaires but they left in tears."

Fewer than five players have allegedly already required medical attention with Variety reporting that one contestant is now nursing an injured shoulder. However, Netflix is refuting claims of negligence, with a spokesperson saying:

We care deeply about the health and safety of our cast and crew, and invested in all the appropriate safety procedures. While it was very cold on set — and participants were prepared for that — any claims of serious injury are untrue.

Now that the COVID-19 restrictions have eased up all around the world, Netflix is right to capitalize on the record-breaking popularity of the fictional contest series. However, the streaming giant might have underestimated the potential risks of a reality competition series based on the fictional hit drama, especially since the contestants aren't trained professionals.

The reported injuries are from playing the Red Light, Green Light game. As featured in the original series, participants have to stay still for as long as the watchful eye of a giant robotic doll is on the field. You're eliminated if you move. You'll have to remain motionless until the doll turns its back, which is only when you can move closer to the "finish line".

We're expecting more similar reports to emerge as Netflix films the series across two studios in the United Kingdom where temperatures are currently below freezing.

In addition to Season 2 of Squid Game, Netflix is currently working on a follow-up season to Wednesday as well as the final season of Stranger Things.