Squid Game Actor Yim Si-Wan Responds To Season 3 Backlash

Yim Si-wan, who plays Lee Myung-gi (Player 333) in Squid Game seasons 2 and 3, has faced significant backlash from fans and even friends due to his character's morally reprehensible actions, including attempting to kill his own baby to win the prize money. Despite the widespread hate, Yim embraces the criticism as a testament to his convincing portrayal of a deeply flawed and greedy character, emphasizing his focus on depicting Myung-gi's intense fear rather than outright evil. Myung-gi's arc, marked by repeated missed chances at redemption and marked selfishness, has made him one of the most hated characters in the series, eclipsing even the Front Man in malice for many viewers. The show's creator intended for Myung-gi's descent to reflect a painfully familiar portrait of moral failure, amplified by charm, desperation, and self-delusion, which Yim Si-wan plays with unnerving precision. Yim also expressed regret that his character did not have a redemptive death, preferring a sacrifice for his ex-girlfriend rather than the cold-blooded actions viewers witnessed. Ultimately, both the character and actor acknowledge the complex, dark themes Squid Game explores through Myung-gi’s storyline, which has left a lasting impact on audiences.