Introduction
The third and final season of Netflix’s hit Korean web series Squid Game has once again captivated global audiences, setting a staggering new world record within just 72 hours of its release. Released on June 27, 2025, Squid Game Season 3 has amassed over 61 million views, becoming the biggest global opening for a non-English language series in Netflix’s history.
This remarkable feat underscores the enduring popularity and influence of Korean content in the global entertainment landscape and reaffirms Squid Game’s place as one of the most successful digital franchises ever produced.
A Record-Breaking Premiere: 61 Million Views in Just 72 Hours
According to international media reports and data from Netflix, Squid Game Season 3 achieved an unprecedented 61 million views worldwide within its first three days of release. The series quickly climbed to the No. 1 spot in 93 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, South Korea, Germany, Brazil, and Japan.
These numbers surpass even the previous seasons’ impressive performances. Season 1, released in September 2021, held the record for the most-viewed Netflix series until now, reaching over 111 million accounts in its first month. Season 2, which premiered in 2023, also broke multiple streaming benchmarks, but Season 3 has exceeded expectations, becoming the most successful series launch in Netflix’s global history.
Critical Reception: Polarizing Yet Popular
While the numbers reflect the show’s massive appeal, the critical reception has been somewhat divided. The third season of Squid Game has been praised for its intense storyline, character development, and deeper moral themes, but it has also faced criticism for its graphic and violent scenes.
Many viewers applauded the realism and social commentary embedded within the narrative, calling the show a “brilliant reflection of the darker side of human nature.” However, others found the explicit violence disturbing and excessive, leading to debates on social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit about whether the creators went too far in pushing boundaries.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s Vision: Morality, Hope, and Desperation
Series creator and director Hwang Dong-hyuk has once again taken center stage for his bold storytelling approach. In interviews following the release, Hwang revealed that Season 3 explores heavier philosophical questions than its predecessors.
“This season is about human morality, the power of hope, and the desperation people face when pushed to their limits,” Hwang said. “We’ve shown not just the violence of the games, but the emotional turmoil, ethical dilemmas, and difficult decisions that shape our humanity.”
Hwang also emphasized that while the games remain brutal and visually intense, the emotional arcs of the characters are what truly define the season’s strength.
Plot Highlights: Raising the Stakes
Without revealing too many spoilers, Season 3 takes the high-stakes survival drama to a new level. Returning characters are forced to confront their past decisions, new alliances are formed under pressure, and the games themselves are more psychologically tormenting than ever.
One of the key themes revolves around trust — or the lack thereof — and how it can make or break contestants as they compete not only for survival but for redemption. The morality of the game’s creators is also questioned more directly this season, offering viewers a deeper glimpse into the mechanics behind the horrific contests.
Cast and Performances
Season 3 sees the return of fan favorites such as Lee Jung-jae (as Seong Gi-hun) and Wi Ha-joon (as Hwang Jun-ho), whose performances have received universal praise for their emotional depth and complexity.
New cast members have also been introduced, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the narrative. International actors have joined the ensemble, further emphasizing Squid Game’s global outlook and appeal. Their involvement also adds diversity to the plot, which now explores how participants from different countries experience the games differently due to cultural, social, and economic factors.
The Global Impact of Korean Content
Squid Game is more than just a TV series — it has become a cultural phenomenon. The success of its third season is yet another milestone in the global rise of Korean content, known as the “K-wave” or Hallyu.
From music (K-pop) to movies (Parasite, Train to Busan) and now web series, South Korea has positioned itself as a dominant force in global pop culture. Netflix has heavily invested in Korean productions over the past few years, and the overwhelming success of Squid Game validates this strategy.
Merchandising and Spin-offs
Following the massive success of the first two seasons, Netflix has expanded the Squid Game franchise to include a wide range of merchandise, including apparel, collectibles, and themed games.
Additionally, a reality TV version titled Squid Game: The Challenge was launched earlier, where contestants compete in similar (non-lethal) games for large cash prizes. Rumors are also swirling about a potential Squid Game feature film or prequel series in development, though Netflix has yet to officially confirm.
Viewer Engagement and Social Media Buzz
Since its release, Squid Game 3 has dominated trending charts across all major social media platforms. The hashtag #SquidGame3 trended worldwide on X (formerly Twitter) for three consecutive days. TikTok users have posted reaction videos, character theories, and breakdowns of game strategies, further fuelling the show’s popularity among younger audiences.
Fan forums are also filled with discussions on potential hidden meanings, Easter eggs, and the fate of certain characters — a testament to how deeply viewers are engaged with the storyline.
Industry Recognition and Awards Potential
Given its record-breaking start and powerful performances, Squid Game Season 3 is expected to make waves in the upcoming awards season. The first season of the show earned accolades such as the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Lee Jung-jae) and multiple wins at international festivals.
Season 3’s stronger character arcs, moral dilemmas, and high production value have critics predicting nominations for writing, directing, and acting at the next Emmy Awards, as well as other global platforms like the Golden Globes and BAFTAs.
Conclusion: A Legacy Cemented
The third and final season of Squid Game has not only lived up to the immense expectations set by its predecessors but has arguably surpassed them in many ways. With a record-breaking 61 million views in just three days, compelling storytelling, and a thought-provoking narrative, the series has firmly cemented its legacy in the annals of entertainment history.
As fans prepare to say goodbye to one of Netflix’s most iconic series, one thing is certain — Squid Game will continue to influence future narratives, redefine survival dramas, and set the bar high for international productions for years to come.
