With the highly anticipated third season of Squid Game set to premiere on June 27, excitement is surging among fans worldwide. However, in the midst of the growing hype, lead actor Lee Jung-jae has made a candid and somewhat startling revelation about his emotional state as the new season approaches.
In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Emmy-winning actor shared that despite the overwhelming global success of the series, he is grappling with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety.
“The release is just around the corner, and I’m honestly very anxious,” Lee admitted. “I know fans are incredibly eager to see where the story goes next, but we — the cast and crew — are just as eager to see how the audience reacts. There’s a lot of curiosity, but also a lot of pressure. I’m excited, but also extremely nervous.”
Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun Share Anxiety and Pressure Before Squid Game Season 3 Release
The Netflix hit, which became a cultural phenomenon with its stark commentary on class disparity and harrowing depiction of human survival, has become a global benchmark for Korean drama. Season 3 is set to build upon this legacy, exploring the psychological depth and ethical dilemmas that were first unveiled in earlier seasons with even greater intensity and nuance.
Lee Jung-jae won acclaim for his portrayal of Seong Gi-hun, a desperate man caught in a deadly competition. Now returning to the role, Lee finds himself shouldering even greater expectations.
Lee Byung-hun also reprises his role as the elusive and strategically ruthless Front Man — a figure shrouded in mystery whose enigmatic presence has ignited a wave of fan speculation and theories. He shared Lee Jung-jae’s feelings, admitting that there is significant pressure to live up to the audience’s high expectations.
“I feel satisfied with how the story concluded, but I also know that every fan has their own ideas and desires for the narrative,” said Lee Byung-hun. “That makes me both excited and apprehensive. I can’t wait to see how people respond — but it’s nerve-wracking.”
As the countdown to the June 27 premiere continues, both stars are bracing for the global reaction to a season that promises to raise the stakes, deepen character arcs, and explore even more thought-provoking themes. With a loyal fanbase and a high bar set by previous seasons, Squid Game Season 3 is poised to once again dominate screens and conversations across the world
