'Beef' season two storyline was inspired by real-life argument, says Lee Sung Jin

'Beef' returns with second season centred on rival couples, with creator Lee Sung Jin citing real-life inspiration

The second season of Beef has been released on Netflix, with creator Lee Sung Jin introducing a new storyline inspired by a real-life domestic incident.

Lee, whose first season of the anthology series received multiple awards, said his creative process is often drawn from real events. “I have a very limited imagination,” he said. “I kind of have to wait for the universe to show me things.”

Reflecting on his earlier work, he added that the process involved “Crippling self-doubt” and “Absolute narcissism,” describing the overlap as “Art.”

The new season shifts focus to two couples whose lives intersect at a California country club. The story follows Ashley and Austin, played by Cailee Spaeny and Charles Melton, and married couple Josh and Lindsay, portrayed by Oscar Isaac and Carey Mulligan. A confrontation between the characters leads to a series of escalating events.

Lee said the idea for the season came after hearing a “heated debate” between neighbours in Southern California.

He described differing reactions when recounting the incident, noting that younger people suggested calling emergency services, while older individuals were less alarmed. “I mean, who doesn’t fight?” he recalled hearing.

The series continues to explore themes including relationships, inequality and social systems, with settings spanning Los Angeles and Seoul. Lee also referenced psychological influences, including the concept of the “shadow self”.

According to Lee, he would not have continued the series without a strong concept. “But,” he said, “real life kind of hit me in the face.”

All eight episodes of the second season are now available for streaming.