Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Squid Game Season 3.
Squid Game Season 3 takes a dark turn for Gi-hun (Player 456) after the Front Man kills his best friend, Jung-bae, in Season 2. This tragedy breaks Gi-hun’s spirit and leads to a shocking act that stuns fans. Here’s what happens to the beloved protagonist.
Gi-hun Kills Dae-ho Out of Revenge
In Season 3, Episode 2, during the Hide-and-Seek game, Gi-hun kills Dae-ho (Player 388). He blames Dae-ho for failing during the rebellion in Season 2.
What Happened:
- During the rebellion, Dae-ho volunteers to get more bullets.
- He freezes in fear and doesn’t return in time.
- Gi-hun holds this against him as a betrayal.
This act of vengeance marks a devastating shift in Gi-hun’s character.
The Real Reason Behind the Killing
At first, Gi-hun hesitates to kill Dae-ho. When he corners him in Hide-and-Seek, he lets him escape briefly. Their history as close allies makes the decision hard.
The Deeper Truth:
- Gi-hun doesn’t fully blame Dae-ho.
- He blames himself for Jung-bae’s death and others lost.
- Grief, anger, and guilt cloud his judgment.
- He projects his pain onto Dae-ho.
In the final scene of Episode 2, Gi-hun admits, “It was my fault,” and even considers taking his own life. This shows his inner torment.
A Heartbreaking and Brutal Moment
Gi-hun’s decision to kill Dae-ho stands out as one of Squid Game’s most heartbreaking moments. The way he does it makes it worse.
How It Happens:
- Gi-hun doesn’t use a weapon.
- He strangles Dae-ho just before the timer ends.
- The act feels deeply personal and violent.
This brutality shocks fans because Gi-hun always put others first. Dae-ho was also one of his first friends in Season 2, making the loss even more tragic.
Killing Dae-ho Gets Gi-hun to the End
By killing Dae-ho, Gi-hun advances to the next games—Jump Rope and eventually Sky Squid Game. This survival adds a darker layer to his choice.
The Harsh Reality:
- Without this act, Gi-hun wouldn’t reach the final game.
- His need to survive conflicts with his usual selflessness.
- It changes how viewers see his character.
This moment marks a permanent shift in Gi-hun’s journey.
Hard to Root for Gi-hun After This
Gi-hun’s actions make it tough for fans to support him fully in Season 3. His brutality overshadows his past heroism.
Why It’s Difficult:
- The violence feels out of character.
- It shows how much the failed rebellion changed him.
- Fans struggle to see him in a positive light.
Though Gi-hun finds some redemption later, this act leaves a lasting stain on his story.
Final Thought: Squid Game Season 3 pushes Gi-hun to his darkest point with the killing of Dae-ho. This shocking turn tests fans’ loyalty to the hero and proves the games can break even the kindest hearts.
All episodes of Squid Game Season 3 are now streaming on Netflix, revealing the tragic evolution of Player 456.
