What happened to Player 197? “Brutal” Squid Game Season 3 fan theory is almost true

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In the latest installment of Squid Game on Netflix, it’s not only the intense new challenges that are causing a stir. The return of character Number 197 has sparked interest, and an intriguing hypothesis about his survival nearly unfolded.

In the thrilling third and concluding segment of the dystopian television series, anything could happen. Though our hearts may hope for Seong Gi-hun’s success, creator Hwang Dong-hyuk cautions us against expecting a joyful conclusion.

Without a doubt, this applies particularly to those on the sidelines. With so many contestants numbering 456 in total, it’s challenging to keep track of everyone, yet occasionally some stand out, and indeed, that’s what happened with Player 197.

As a devoted admirer, I must say that in the second season of Squid Game, he garnered adoration from thirsty fans (no bias), and some even likened him to characters 380 and 388, Se-mi and Kang Dae-ho. This comparison has fueled a fascinating theory about his character’s development – but beware, spoilers lie ahead!

Player 197 Squid Game Season 3 fate & theory

In the Squid Game Season 3 round of Hide and Seek, the character portrayed by actor Do Ye-joon, known as Player 197, is knocked out or eliminated from the competition.

Prior to Season 3 being released on Netflix, a TikTok user speculated, “Suddenly struck by an idea: What if they styled his hair like Dae-ho’s, making us think he was Dae-ho when he got killed. Then, it would be revealed that the one who actually died was Player 197.

Another person responded with, ‘That’s both amazing and harsh,'” or more casually, “Another said, ‘It’d be equally awesome and tough.'” The scenario described is plausible – in reality, it almost unfolded just like that.

In the game of Hide and Seek, participants are divided into two groups: the blue team members must hide and avoid being found, while the red team members aim to locate and eliminate at least one opponent from the other team. Both Dae-ho and 197 wind up on the hiding (blue) side of things.

In Season 2, Gi-hun is furious over Dae-ho’s deception, which leads him to spend most of his time tracking Dae-ho down and challenging him. Eventually, he locates Dae-ho and corners him, but upon turning around, it’s revealed that the person isn’t Dae-ho, instead it’s 197 (meaning a new character or number representing an individual).

As anticipated by the theory, his hairstyle matches Dae-ho’s, causing some bewilderment. However, Gi-hun shows hesitation before taking his life, suggesting it might not be entirely accurate. Remarkably close they came to exposing an intricate subplot detail.

Why Squid Game fans were rooting for 197

A significant number of viewers consider Player 197 their preferred supporting character, commending actor Do Ye-joon’s performance and the intriguing narrative associated with him on the Netflix series.

On the actor’s Instagram post about Squid Game Season 2, someone commented, “Even though your screen time is only three minutes, you are my favorite character.” Others have noted that he cast the vote to end the games and bravely avenged Player 067’s death during the dorm fight.

One viewer commented, ‘Let’s greet the standout supporting actor from Squid Game!’ Another exclaimed, ‘I hope Player 197 makes it through Season 3!’

Unfortunately, given that the major characters were all at risk, it was inevitable that Player 197 would meet a tragic demise. However, he went out as a hero.

Or:

Despite the fact that the main players were in danger, Player 197’s fate to perish gruesomely was unavoidable. But he died courageously.

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2025-06-27 17:48