The wait is nearly over. On June 27, 'Squid Game' returns with its third and final season, promising to bring the brutal, heart-stopping saga to a dramatic close. For longtime fans, this marks the end of an unforgettable journey filled with betrayal, sacrifice, and unrelenting tension. Whether you're looking to refresh your memory or catch up before diving back in, here's your full recap of Seasons 1 and 2, and everything to know before Season 3 begins.
Warning! Spoilers Ahead...
Season 1: Where It All Started
Seong Gi Hun, a down-on-his-luck man drowning in debt, is approached by a mysterious recruiter offering him a chance to win a massive sum of money. Soon, he finds himself among 455 other desperate individuals, all competing in deadly versions of children’s games for a life-changing prize.
From the shocking turn of Red Light, Green Light to the tear-jerking betrayal in Marbles, Season 1 introduced us to unforgettable characters: Sang Woo, the calculating childhood friend; Sae Byeok, a defector fighting for her family; Ali, the kind-hearted migrant worker; and Oh Il Nam, the elderly player with secrets of his own.
In a twist that shocked viewers, Player 001, Oh Il Nam, is revealed to be the game’s creator. He joined the games himself out of boredom and a terminal illness. Gi Hun ultimately wins but is left emotionally shattered. When he encounters the recruiter again, he decides not to board his flight to the U.S., vowing to put an end to the games once and for all.
Season 2: A Deadlier Return
Three years later, Gi Hun dyes his hair red and returns to dismantle the game from the inside. Season 2 introduces new characters, each carrying their own burdens: Jung Bae, Gi Hun’s loyal friend; Seon Nye, a prophet-like player; and Jo Yuri, a pregnant young woman trapped by her ex-boyfriend's mistakes.
The challenges become more intense. A brutal team-based game with five mini-missions in five minutes tests their physical and mental endurance. One highlight is the newly introduced Mingle Game. Just when it seems a rebellion might succeed, a devastating twist is revealed: the Front Man, secretly hiding as Player 001, betrays Gi Hun and kills Jung Bae.
Lee Jung Jae, who portrays Gi Hun, noted in interviews that his character doesn’t realize the betrayal came from the Front Man. Instead, he blames himself for the failed uprising, further deepening his guilt and determination.
What to Expect in Season 3
The third and final season picks up where Season 2 left off. Gi Hun is devastated by loss and betrayal, but the games continue regardless. He is once again forced to make life-altering decisions as the remaining players confront increasingly dangerous and sadistic challenges.
Meanwhile, In Ho fully steps into his role as the Front Man. He welcomes a new wave of VIPs and tightens control over the organization. His brother Jun Ho is still alive and on a mission to locate the heart of the operation. Will Gi Hun find redemption, or will the Front Man succeed in crushing his resolve once and for all?
When and Where to Watch
'Squid Game' Season 3 premieres on June 27 exclusively on Netflix. The trailer hints at dramatic face-offs, shocking betrayals, and a finale more violent and emotionally intense than anything we’ve seen. Fans can expect returning cast members, new contestants, and a final confrontation that promises to leave a lasting impact.
The final game is about to begin. Are you ready?
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