This article contains spoilers for the series finale of Squid Game.
With the June 27 release of the third season of Squid Game, Netflix’s hit Korean dystopian thriller has reached its dramatic conclusion. The series, which began as a sleeper hit in September 2021, quickly became a worldwide sensation. Its brutally violent narrative, exploring the dehumanizing effects of capitalism, struck a chord with audiences still reeling from the isolation of the pandemic. Now, after four years, three seasons, and a controversial reality show, fans are left to ponder: Did Squid Game stick the landing? The answer is as complex as the series itself.
The Final Act: A Battle for Humanity
Season 3 picks up directly from the tumultuous events of Season 2, where protagonist Seong Gi-hun, or Player 456, re-enters the deadly tournament with a mission to dismantle it from within. His journey is marked by a series of moral and physical challenges, culminating in the series finale titled “Humans Are …” This episode, split into two parts, begins amidst the final game, Sky Squid Game, where Gi-hun faces a moral dilemma that tests his resolve.
The stakes are higher than ever as Gi-hun attempts to protect a newborn, the child of Player 222, Kim Jun-hee, who tragically dies after giving birth during the games. The tension escalates when Gi-hun must confront Player 333, Lee Myung-gi, the baby’s father, in a life-or-death struggle. The climax sees Gi-hun sacrificing himself, leaving viewers with his haunting last words, “We are not horses. We are humans. Humans are …” The incomplete statement invites the audience to reflect on the series’ overarching themes.
Subplots and Surprises
Meanwhile, the narrative branches out to follow Kang No-eul, a North Korean sharpshooter turned game staff member, who defects in a bid to save a fellow player. Her journey reveals the darker underbelly of the games, as she uncovers the truth about her supposedly deceased daughter. No-eul’s story arc provides a poignant commentary on the personal costs of the games and the resilience of the human spirit.
The finale also revisits the character of Hwang Jun-ho, the detective whose relentless pursuit of justice leads him to a shocking reunion with his brother, the game’s Front Man. This encounter, set against the backdrop of an impending island explosion, underscores the series’ exploration of familial bonds and betrayal.
Global Implications and Cultural Reflections
The final moments of Squid Game extend beyond the confines of South Korea, hinting at a global network of exploitation. A surprise cameo by Cate Blanchett as a new recruiter suggests that the games are far from over, emphasizing the series’ critique of capitalism’s pervasive reach.
As the series concludes, it leaves a lasting impression on its audience, challenging them to consider the moral implications of their own societal structures. The show’s creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, has crafted a narrative that serves as both entertainment and a cautionary tale, warning of the dangers of unchecked greed and inequality.
The Legacy of Squid Game
While the final seasons may not have captured the same viral intensity as the first, they underscore a critical message about the cyclical nature of exploitation. The series finale suggests that despite Gi-hun’s sacrifices, the systemic issues he fought against remain unresolved, mirroring real-world challenges.
In reality, Squid Game has transcended its fictional narrative, influencing popular culture and sparking discussions about economic disparity. The series’ impact is further amplified by its transformation into a reality competition show and themed experiences, which ironically echo the very themes of exploitation it sought to critique.
As Squid Game closes its final chapter, it leaves behind a complex legacy, inviting viewers to reflect on the nature of humanity and the societal systems that shape our lives. The series’ ending may not provide all the answers, but it poses questions that resonate far beyond the screen.
