Squid Game Creator Explains Changes to Original Season 3 Ending

Season 3 of Squid Game concluded in a profoundly impactful manner, but as revealed by the series creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, the final moments were initially conceived quite differently.

The finale achieved record-breaking success on Netflix, garnering an impressive 60.1 million views within its first three days—more than any other show on the platform in its entire history.

For an in-depth look at the series finale, including notable cameo appearances and how Season 3 may pave the way for a potential spinoff, be sure to check out our detailed ending explainer.SPOILERS are ahead.

The Evolution of the Ending: A Message to the World

Lee Jung-jae as Seong Gi-hun in Squid Game Season 3 — Netflix

The series closes with protagonist Gi-hun making the ultimate sacrifice to protect an innocent child. This bittersweet conclusion not only captures the essence of the narrative’s relentless bleakness but also leaves viewers with a glimmer of hope. However, Hwang revealed that the original storyline envisioned Gi-hun surviving the climactic moment.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Hwang reflected, “Initially, I had a rough idea about how I wanted the story to conclude, which included Gi-hun exiting the game alive and reuniting with his daughter in America. The original concept had him being the one to witness the American recruiter.”

However, as Hwang developed the narrative, he contemplated the deeper message he wanted the ending to convey.“I started to observe global events and felt that it would be more poignant if Gi-hun delivered a significant message, making that the story’s closure, ” he explained.

Game over. The final season of Squid Game is now playing.pic.twitter.com/hQH6DZwGq9

— Netflix (@netflix) June 27, 2025

He emphasized the grim state of the world, stating, “It seems we are headed toward unprecedented challenges. I pondered the sacrifices necessary for this generation to ensure a better future for the next. I wanted Gi-hun’s sacrifice to symbolize this idea.”

Insights from Hwang Dong-hyuk on the Final Scene

The Front Man in Squid Game Season 3 and the American recruiter — Netflix

Hwang also noted that the scene following Gi-hun’s death, showing the Front Man encountering his American counterpart in Los Angeles, serves as a chilling reminder that the underlying issues depicted in Squid Game are far from resolved.

“It was never my intention to leave viewers in despair with the ending, ” he clarified.“The last scene was crafted to show the Front Man’s shock upon witnessing the American recruiter. This aimed to underline the systemic issues portrayed in the series.”

“Through Gi-hun’s narrative and sacrifice, I sought to deliver messages of hope and the necessity of perseverance, even in dark times. Yet, I wanted to highlight that these entrenched systems are deeply rooted, requiring ongoing effort and determination to challenge them.”

Squid Game Seasons 1 through 3 are currently available for streaming on Netflix. Explore more trending TV shows available this month!

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