Why the Squid Game ‘Milk Theory’ About the Front Man Is Misguided: A Key Explanation

A recent discussion surrounding Squid Game Season 2 has sparked intrigue as a popular theory explores a potential connection between the character known as the Front Man and Il-nam, famously referred to as the original Player 001. The speculation primarily stems from a line referencing milk, though there are critical clarifications to be made regarding this theory.

During the first season of Squid Game, the bond formed between Gi-hun and Il-nam deepens as they navigate through a series of deadly games, including Red Light, Green Light, Dalgona, and Tug-of-War. Their relationship, however, takes a devastating turn during the Marbles game when Il-nam chooses to sacrifice himself. This moment reveals a shocking twist: Il-nam is the mastermind behind the entire competition, and Gi-hun encounters him again at his deathbed at the series’ conclusion.

As Season 2 unfolds, the Front Man emerges as the primary authority within the competition. Not only does he assume Il-nam’s position, but there’s speculation about a deeper familial connection between the two, suggesting that the Front Man may secretly be Il-nam’s son.

Debunking the Squid Game ‘Milk Theory’

An intriguing post shared on X/Twitter featuring screenshots from both seasons suggests that the Front Man is, in fact, Il-nam’s son. While this theory has yet to be conclusively disproven, a considerable issue arises: the key quote cited is entirely fabricated.

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— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) January 4, 2025

The top screenshot purportedly captures a scene where Il-nam tells Gi-hun, “You are just like my son; he couldn’t drink milk either.” However, the subsequent screenshot exhibits the Front Man offering his milk to Jun-hee (Player 222) and claiming, “Here, I can’t drink it anyway.”

Initially, the revelation was shocking; however, upon revisiting Season 1, it becomes clear that the exchange differs significantly from the claim. During their conversation, Gi-hun requests chocolate milk due to childhood lactose intolerance, prompting Il-nam to respond with a lighthearted remark about his own son, recalling how he too faced disciplinary actions as a child.

Furthermore, in Season 2, the Front Man doesn’t state, “Here, I can’t drink it anyway.” Instead, he simply mentions, “I don’t drink plain milk,” reinforcing that the connection proposed by the theory lacks a solid foundation in the dialogue.

Despite the viral nature of the post, which has garnered nearly 27 million views and over 385,000 likes, it is essential to approach it critically. As highlighted by numerous fans, the recurring mention of milk may serve as an acknowledgment of the high prevalence of lactose intolerance among Koreans, estimated at about 75%. Additionally, Il-nam previously indicated he had only one son. Given that the Front Man and his brother, Hwang Jun-ho, share the same father, this also casts doubt on the paternal theory.

While a slim possibility exists that Il-nam could be the Front Man’s father, it is evident that milk plays no role in this connection.

Meanwhile, fans eager for more insights can explore theories regarding Thanos speaking English in the latest season, updates about Squid Game Season 3, and predictions for its upcoming chapter.

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