The second series of Squid Game delivered some shocking twists, culminating in one of the most violent and heart-wrenching episodes of the popular Netflix thriller to date.
The unexpected hit from South Korea, which premiered in 2021, captivated audiences worldwide with its tale of gambling addict Gi-hun (portrayed by Lee Jung-jae) navigating a deadly obstacle course.
Run by a clandestine organisation, the games force hundreds of contestants to compete in a series of life-or-death challenges for a massive cash reward.
As the second series begins, Gi-hun, having previously emerged victorious, is resolved to end the malevolent tournament and attempts to infiltrate the next round.
Regrettably, the enigmatic Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) was evidently aware of his scheme, severing his connection with police officer Hwang Jun-ho (Wi Ha-joon) before he could participate in the games incognito, reports the Mirror US.
What happened in Squid Game's season 2 finale?
In the concluding episode of Squid Game's second series, titled Friend or Foe, Gi-hun endeavours to instigate a revolt against the games alongside the other 'X' players, those who voted to depart prior to the next challenge.
At a pivotal juncture, Gi-hun entrusts former Marine Kang Dae-ho (Kang Ha-neul) with the task of returning to the dormitory to collect ammunition from the guards they had previously incapacitated.
Regrettably, Dae-ho succumbs to fear, leaving him hiding with the other players while Cho Hyun-ju (Park Sung-hoon) pursues him.
Minutes after her arrival, the dormitory is stormed by guards, trapping everyone inside as Gi-hun and his close friend Park Jung-bae's (Lee Seo-hwan) mission spirals towards catastrophe.
Unbeknown to them, the Front Man, who had been masquerading as Oh Young-il, aka Player 001, turns the tables despite previously aiding their quest to the control room amidst the chaos.
In a pivotal twist, Young-il outmanoeuvres a group of assailants, stealthily resuming his command over the games by feigning death and dispatching two insurgents.
Just when all seems bleak, the Front Man confronts Gi-hun to demonstrate the futility of his "little hero games", ruthlessly executing Jung-bae before his very eyes.
With Gi-hun still oblivious to the Front Man's true identity, the season finale leaves him devastated over his comrade's corpse.
Gi-hun hits rock bottom, yet he's kept in play for the remaining challenges. Will he survive, or will he lay down his life for his team's sake?
While this marks the end of Gi-hun's second saga, Squid Game's sophomore season had one more trick up its sleeve.
A mid-credits scene tantalises fans with a peek at what awaits in the Netflix sensation's third instalment this Friday, though specifics remain scant.
The teaser offers a glimpse of three contestants on the move, the infamous animatronic visage of Young-hee, a new boy doll, and the ominous flicker of a green light.
What surprises await in the final season of Squid Game? Tune in this Friday to discover.
Squid Game season 3 premieres Friday, 27th June on Netflix.
