Millions of global fans are bidding farewell to Squid Game, the Emmy-winning South Korean phenomenon that not only broke Netflix records but also exposed deep-rooted societal issues through its brutal narrative.
With its third and final season released last Friday, Squid Game has concluded its journey—but its message continues to resonate powerfully, especially in South Korea.
The dystopian thriller, centered on desperate individuals competing in childhood games with deadly consequences, has been widely praised for its critique of capitalism, class struggle, and the human cost of economic inequality. Now, with the story’s conclusion, fans are reflecting on what the series has come to represent.
“This season felt like a raw expression of Korea’s reality,” one YouTube viewer commented. “The toxic work culture, social injustice—it hit too close to home.”
Season 3 pushes protagonist Seong Gi-hun into a sacrificial finale, giving up his life to save a fellow player’s child. The unexpected ending sparked mixed reactions—some praised its emotional depth, while others felt it contradicted the show’s gritty realism.
“The altruism felt performative,” a user wrote on Nate Pann. “It didn’t match the ruthlessness we’ve seen so far.”
Still, many argue the finale captured the show’s core paradox: hope in a hopeless world.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk addressed the divided response, saying, “In season one, the surprise was fresh. But with growing expectations, it’s harder to meet everyone’s vision. Some wanted more games, others deeper themes.”
Beyond entertainment, Squid Game has become a cultural export representing the global power of Korean content, alongside BTS and Parasite. South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae Myung, is reportedly looking to build on this K-culture momentum.
A massive parade in Seoul celebrated the show’s conclusion, with characters and props taking over the streets. Meanwhile, speculation grows about a potential American spinoff, teased by a cryptic final scene involving Cate Blanchett.
Whether loved or criticized, Squid Game ends as it began—with society under a microscope and humanity at the center of the game.