WARNING: This article contains MAJOR SPOILERS for Squid Game season 2, episode 7.
Understanding the Cliffhanger in Squid Game Season 2
Squid Game season 2 may only feature seven episodes, but this decision is rooted in a significant narrative strategy. After the unprecedented success of the first season in 2021, where it broke numerous viewing records, many fans anticipated a more extensive sequel. Surprisingly, the second season is shorter in episode count, yet its finale leaves viewers grappling with a dramatic cliffhanger—culminating in the Front Man quelling Gi-hun’s rebellion in a heart-wrenching manner.
The Anticipated Continuation: A Third Season Confirmed
The cliffhanger at the conclusion of Squid Game season 2 was expected, especially with the announcement of a third season prior to its release. Fans can rejoice as the wait for season 3 is slated to be significantly shorter, set to air in 2025. This rapid return is due to the simultaneous production and writing of both seasons, compensating for the shorter episode count in season 2 where much of the overarching story unfolds.
How Squid Game Seasons 2 and 3 Were Developed Concurrently
Upon Netflix’s record-breaking success with the first season, director Hwang Dong-hyuk was offered an opportunity to expand the series. What began as a simple plan for a second season morphed into a two-season arc, with both seasons being penned and produced concurrently. Currently in post-production, Squid Game season 3 is anticipated to deliver a seamless continuation of the gripping narrative.
I wrote seasons two and three at the same time, and we were in production for both simultaneously, and currently we are in the post-production process for Season 3. When I was writing the script for the two seasons, I felt like there was a big turning point or an inflection point, and that was the end of episode seven, so I thought that it would do it justice to have a separate season after that. That’s why I had the first seven episodes as Season 2 and then the rest as Season 3.
Episode 7: A Pivotal Moment in the Squid Game Saga
Reflecting on the insights shared by director Hwang, it becomes clear why he identified episode 7 as a critical juncture in the storyline. This episode encapsulated the essence of a season finale, punctuating intense action and high stakes as Gi-hun led a daring insurrection against the creators of the Squid Games. Unfortunately, the turmoil culminated in tragedy as Jung-bae was shot before Gi-hun’s eyes, leaving viewers shocked and desperate for resolution.
The Fallout from Episode 7’s Events
Season 2 concluded on a somber note, marked not only by Jung-bae’s downfall but also by Gi-hun’s apparent despair. Despite his courageous efforts to dismantle the sinister games, the Front Man emerges victorious, suggesting that the games will recommence, with three more challenges looming ahead. Given the high stakes and the loss of critical allies, it seems season 3 will be vital in exploring the destiny of the remaining players.
What to Expect from Squid Game Season 3
Release Date and Episode Count
As of this writing, Netflix has not disclosed the precise number of episodes for Squid Game season 3. However, with the production currently in the editing phase, enthusiasts can expect an announcement soon, likely placing the total episode count in the familiar range of 7 to 9—similar to its predecessors.
This scenario of reduced episode counts leading into an already confirmed follow-up is not exclusive to Squid Game. A comparable pattern occurred with the series Sweet Home, which also took three years for its second season return, highlighting a trend among Netflix’s K-dramas. Although the specific release date remains unannounced, the fact that season 3 is in post-production suggests it could debut sooner rather than later in 2025.
Source: Deadline
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