First Character Death in Squid Game Season 3 – Will It Be Kang Ae-Sim or Yang Dong-geun?

The global phenomenon that is Squid Game returns to Netflix on June 27th, 2025, promising a brutal and heartbreaking conclusion to Gi-hun’s story. With the games set to resume after his failed revolution, fans are on the edge of their seats, speculating which beloved character will be the first to fall. Among the top contenders are the fan-favorite mother-son duo, Geum-ja (Kang Ae-sim) and Yong-sik (Yang Dong-geun).

Clues from Filming Schedules

Speculation surrounding the pair’s fate stems from comments made by Kang Ae-sim herself. In a December 2024 interview, Ae-sim revealed that she and Yang Dong-geun filmed for only six months, while some actors filmed for a full year. Given that Seasons 2 and 3 were filmed back-to-back, this shorter filming schedule has led many to believe their characters will meet an early demise in Season 3.

A Heartbreaking Sacrifice?

The mother-son dynamic adds another layer of tragedy to the already brutal games. The idea of only one potentially surviving to claim the prize creates a heartbreaking scenario. Many theories suggest Geum-ja might sacrifice herself to save her son, a poignant moment that would resonate deeply with viewers. Her age and frailty make her a likely target in the physically demanding games, further fueling this speculation.

Head on over to 22bet21.com to see which character has been given odds of 1.4/1 or 71.40% for being killed off first.

The Deadly New Red Light, Green Light

The Season 2 mid-credits scene offered a chilling glimpse into the next round of Red Light, Green Light, featuring a terrifying new robot alongside the iconic schoolgirl. This revamped game, with its increased danger, is a prime candidate for a major character death. Given the vulnerability of both Geum-ja and Yong-sik, this could be the stage where they meet their tragic end, potentially even under the watchful eye of a captured Gi-hun.

Alternative Theories and Uncertainties

While the evidence seems to point towards an early exit for Geum-ja and Yong-sik, it’s important to remember Squid Game‘s penchant for unexpected twists. Jo Yu-ri, who plays pregnant player Jun-hee, has hinted at a “truly unimaginably brutal and cruel story” awaiting viewers, suggesting that fan theories might be far off the mark. The Front Man’s awareness of Jun-hee’s pregnancy also opens up possibilities for unexpected alliances and interventions.

Beyond Geum-ja and Yong-sik

While the focus remains on the mother-son duo, other characters are also at risk. The returning players from Season 2 all face uncertain futures, and the escalating stakes suggest that no one is safe. The return of the Front Man and the continued presence of Gi-hun promise a complex and emotionally charged narrative, where survival is far from guaranteed.

The Final Chapter

Season 3 is touted as the final chapter of Gi-hun’s story, focusing on his guilt and the devastating loss of his friend Jung-bae. While the fate of Geum-ja and Yong-sik remains uncertain, their potential deaths would undoubtedly contribute to the overarching themes of loss, sacrifice, and the brutal reality of the games. As June 27th approaches, fans can only brace themselves for the emotional rollercoaster that awaits them in the concluding chapter of Squid Game.