‘Squid Game’ star Lee Jung-jae has opened up about the emotional ending of his character, Seong Gi-hun, in the recently released third and final season of the hit Netflix series. Speaking in an interview with Variety, the actor revealed that the show’s creator had considered alternate endings before finalizing the one fans saw.
Lee, who played player 456, said he found out about Gi-hun’s fate after receiving the season 3 script. “I read everything the day I got it. That’s when I learned about the ending. I was very shocked too,” he recalled. He admitted that the ending was completely unexpected, even for him.
In the final episode, Gi-hun sacrifices his life to save the baby of player 222, played by Jo Yu-ri, during the intense “Sky Squid Game.” The dramatic twist brought the series to an emotional close, leaving viewers both heartbroken and inspired by the act of bravery.
Lee also shared a meaningful conversation he had with director Hwang Dong-hyuk, asking if other endings were considered. The director confirmed that multiple versions were explored but ultimately believed this one best fit the message of the story.
The actor said the director urged him not to see the sacrifice as just a loss, but as a symbol of hope for humanity. “He wanted it to be seen as something greater — as a light in the dark,” Lee explained, adding emotional depth to the series’ conclusion.
Squid Game Season 3 was released on June 27, 2025, and wrapped up the globally loved saga with a powerful and thought-provoking ending, leaving fans with lasting impressions and new perspectives on survival, sacrifice, and humanity.