Squid Game took the world by storm in 2021, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series of all time with over 1.65 billion viewing hours in its first month. The Korean survival drama captivated audiences with its brutal social commentary, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters. Now, after a global phenomenon and multiple Emmy wins, Squid Game returns with a highly anticipated third season.
AllHipHop caught up with actor Lee Byung-hun, best known for his role as a masked enforcer in the series, director Hwang Dong-hyuk and star Lee Jung-jae (Player 456, Gi-hun). From slipping back into the signature red wig to the psychological depth of characters like Gi-hun and the mysterious Front Man, the team dives deep into what’s next.
With season three promising higher stakes, fans are eager to see how the story expands. The cast reveals how fan’s energy helped shape the new season. Interviewer D-Nellz digs deep to offer rare insight into the minds behind one of the most captivating shows of the decade.
AllHipHop: It’s an honor to speak with you all today. Let’s keep things light and spoiler-free. First off, how did it feel to return to the world of Squid Game and begin filming again?
Lee Jung-jae (Actor): The first scene I filmed this season was with the red wig and I just couldn’t believe I was wearing it again. I remember laughing a lot in the makeup trailer. It felt surreal. Of course, this all began with Director Hwang’s vision, but I also think the energy and love from the fans played a huge part in bringing us back. I’m really grateful for that. So I put the wig on and gave it my all.
AllHipHop: As both actors and creators, Squid Game received a massive wave of global attention. Did that impact your creative mindset or add pressure coming into Season 2?
Hwang Dong-hyuk (Director): Absolutely, there was pressure. The show became a global phenomenon, and expectations were incredibly high. But instead of letting that stress me out, I made a conscious effort to turn it into confidence. When we made Season 1, I was filled with doubt—wondering if people would resonate with the story at all. But once I saw how much they embraced it, I realized they connected with the message I wanted to share. That gave me the confidence to tell Season 2 the way I truly wanted, believing that audiences would respond if I stayed authentic.
AllHipHop: Let’s talk about two of the show’s most complex characters, Gi-hun and the Front Man. Without spoiling anything, what should fans expect from their clash in Season 2?
Lee Byung-hun (The Front Man): Gi-hun and the Front Man actually followed very similar paths. Both were players in the game. Both witnessed betrayal, death, and were forced into situations where they had to take others’ lives. But what’s fascinating is that they ended up in completely opposite places. Gi-hun still believes in humanity and holds onto hope, while the Front Man has turned into a pessimist.
When they confront each other this season, you’ll see that the Front Man still has a faint spark of humanity inside him. As I played him, I really tried to convey that internal struggle. It’s not spelled out directly in the script, but if you look closely, I think viewers will sense that even the Front Man might secretly hope Gi-hun is right.
AllHipHop: Thank you so much for your 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