Squid Game swept the world in 2021, becoming Netflix’s most popular series ever, with over 1.65 billion viewing times in the first month. This Korean survival drama attracts viewers with brutal social commentary, amazing visuals and memorable characters. Now, after global phenomena and multiple Emmy wins, Squid Game returns with its highly anticipated third season.
Allhiphop caught up with actor Lee Byung-Hun, who is known for playing the role of the series’ masked executor, director Hwang Dong-Hyuk and star Lee Jung-Jae (Player 456, GI-HUN). From returning to the mental depth of characters like the iconic red wig to the likes of Gi-hun and the mysterious striker, the team took a deep dive into what’s next.
With season three promising higher bets, fans are eager to see the story expand. The cast reveals how the energy of the model helps shape the new season. Interviewer D-Nellz digs deeper and provides rare insights into the ideas behind one of the most fascinating shows of the decade.
AllhipHop: It is an honor to talk to you today. Let’s keep the light and spoiler. First, how does it feel to go back to the world of squid games and start shooting again?
Lee Jung-Jae (Actor): The first scene I shot this season was with the red wig, and I couldn’t believe I was wearing it again. I remember laughing a lot in the makeup trailer. Feeling surreal. Of course, it all started with director Hwang’s vision, but I also think that the energy and love of fans play a big role in bringing us back. I’m really grateful. So I put on my wig and went all out.
AllhipHop: As actors and creators, Squid Games has received a huge wave of global attention. Will this affect your creative mindset or increase the stress of season 2?
Hwang Dong-Hyuk (director): There is absolutely pressure. The show became a global phenomenon with very high expectations. But instead of stressing me out, I made a conscious effort to turn it into confidence. When we got Season 1, I was full of questions – whether people would resonate with people at all. But once I saw how much they accepted, I realized they were related to the information I wanted to share. This gives me the confidence to tell season 2 the way I really want, believing that the audience will respond if I keep it real.
AllhipHop: Let’s talk about two of the most complex characters on the show, Gi-Hun and The Front Man. Without spoiling anything, how should fans expect in the clashes of Season 2?
Lee Byung-Hun (Ex-Man): Gi-Hun and The Front Man actually follow a very similar path. Both are players in the game. Both witnessed betrayal, death, and forced into a situation where one must take the lives of others. But what is fascinating is that they end up in the exact opposite. Gi-hun still believes in humanity and sticks to hope, and the ex becomes pessimist.
As they face each other this season, you will find that there is still a faint human spark inside the ex. When I played him, I really tried to convey this internal struggle. It’s not articulated directly in the script, but if you look closely, I think the audience will feel that even the ex might secretly hope that Gi-Hun is right.
AllhipHop: Thank you very much for your precious time. We can’t wait to see how fans react to this new season.
Cast&Team: Thank you!
Check out Squid Game Season 3 on Netflix
