Why Squid Game Won't Return for Season 4 — But This Might Not Be the End

Squid Game quickly became one of Netflix’s most iconic and globally successful series. So when Seasons 2 and 3 were greenlit and filmed back-to-back, fans were thrilled. But if you’re hoping for a fourth season, it’s time to face reality—Squid Game is officially over. Here's why.

"Game Over": The Creator's Final Word

Series creator, writer, and director Hwang Dong-hyuk has confirmed that Season 3 will be the final chapter of Squid Game. In a heartfelt letter to fans last year, Hwang said:

“I am thrilled to announce the release of Season 2 and to confirm that Season 3 will be the last. It’s been incredible to watch this story grow and find its conclusion.”

The decision wasn’t made lightly. Hwang envisioned the show as a contained story—especially centered on main character Gi-hun’s arc. By the end of Season 3, the words “Game Over” flash across the control room screens, making it crystal clear: the story has reached its conclusion.

Why the Story Ends Here

Hwang explained that as he worked on the scripts for Seasons 2 and 3, it became increasingly important to deliver a full-circle resolution.

“I needed to wrap up Gi-hun’s journey and send a clear message,” he told Tudum.
“If we only chase personal gain without sacrifice or unity, there is no future.”

Rather than dragging the story on, Hwang aimed for a meaningful and complete ending—one that offers emotional closure, not just shock value.

The Toll Behind the Scenes

Creating Squid Game was no easy feat. Hwang has openly discussed the immense pressure and stress he faced while developing the series over six years.

“Not a day has gone by without thinking about Squid Game,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.
“Now that it’s ending, I feel relieved but also a little empty. Still, if Season 3 is received with love, I’ll feel better about saying goodbye.”

Could There Be a Spin-Off?

While Hwang has no interest in continuing Gi-hun’s story in a fourth season, he hasn’t ruled out expanding the Squid Game universe in new ways.

“I’m not planning a continuation beyond the ending,” he said.
“But I might explore events that happened between Seasons 1 and 2, possibly through a spin-off. Nothing’s set yet—it’s just an idea.”

Clues and Cameos Point to More

Rumors of a spin-off—especially one set in the U.S.—have gained traction thanks to a surprise cameo in Season 3: Cate Blanchett appears as a recruiter playing Ddakji in Los Angeles. Considering her past work with director David Fincher, and the whispers that Fincher may direct a spin-off, this theory doesn’t seem far-fetched.

Netflix hasn’t made any official announcements, but Blanchett’s role strongly hints that Squid Game could continue in another form—just not in Korea.

Could a Front Man Story Be Next?

Adding fuel to the fire, actor Lee Byung-hun teased a possible Front Man spin-off during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. That storyline remains rich with mystery and could easily stand on its own.

The Final Verdict

So while Squid Game is ending with Season 3, don’t be surprised if this isn't the last time you see its universe. Whether through spin-offs or international adaptations, the games might continue—but for now, the main story is officially complete.

All three seasons of Squid Game are streaming now on Netflix.