Squid Game Season 3 Creator Explains Dead Character’s Cameo

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In a recent chat, the mastermind behind Squid Game, Hwang Dong-hyuk, shared that Jung Ho-yeon’s character, Sae-byeok, appearing in Squid Game Season 3 was not just a cameo but had a profound intention. He explained why Sae-byeok returned even after her demise in Season 1, how it aligns with Gi-hun’s concluding journey, and what it unveils about the central ethical dilemma that forms the heart of the series.

Why Jung Ho-yeon’s Sae-byeok cameo was important for Squid Game Season 3

In the final episode of Squid Game Season 3, Gi-hun encounters a fleeting apparition of Sae-byeok (portrayed by Jung Ho-yeon), as he is presented with the choice to end the lives of fellow contestants while they are asleep.

In the scenario, Sae-byeok gently admonishes him, “You’re not cut out for such actions,” thereby dissuading him from carrying out the deed. As Hwang Dong-hyuk shared with Variety, “That phrase… is what brings him back to his awareness. It resonates with his moral compass and his humanity. Despite their simplicity, these words are remarkably precise, striking him deeply.

Hwang explained that he deliberately returned Sae-byeok so she could impact Gi-hun at this crucial point, due to her significant moral influence on him during Season 1. “In order for Gi-hun to regain consciousness and return to his true self, it was only those profound yet straightforward words from Sae-byeok that could do it,” he stated. He referred to her as the most potent weapon capable of halting Gi-hun’s destructive path.

Initially, Hwang conceived a different conclusion for Gi-hun’s character. As he explained, “What I initially had as a vague concept was actually the complete opposite choice.” He went on to say that there was a significant alteration in the ending compared to his initial, unclear notion of the story. During the development process, Gi-hun’s character arc became more defined. Contrary to expectations, Gi-hun did not transform into a villain or assume the role of the Front Man.

According to the creator, the confrontation between Gi-hun and In-ho in Season 3 was significantly influenced by their ethical differences, which were first hinted at in Season 2. Hwang stated that the storyline revolves around who holds the correct beliefs and values. He also highlighted Sae-byeok’s words as a crucial factor in keeping Gi-hun grounded in his morality during the climactic deadly game.

Jung Ho-yeon’s brief appearance serves as a crucial juncture. It underscores Gi-hun’s human qualities, thereby stopping him from transforming into the very thing he had been fighting against.

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2025-07-02 08:10