Some Squid Game characters didn’t get the time they deserved. From fan favorites to unexpected deaths that changed the game, here are 7 characters we needed on our screens longer.
Squid Game has never been shy about killing off its characters in brutal, unpredictable ways. The gripping South Korean series, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, keeps fans on edge by ensuring that no one is truly safe. However, some eliminations felt premature, cutting short compelling storylines and character development. Here’s a look at the Squid Game characters who should have survived longer.
7. Kang Mi-Na – A Quick Exit Too Soon
Player: 196
Died In: “001” (Season 2, Episode 3)
Kang Mi-na stood out in Squid Game Season 2 with her arrogant yet captivating personality. She shared an interesting dynamic with Thanos, rejecting his advances in the first game. However, her demise was frustratingly quick—caused by a simple bee sting during Red Light, Green Light. Her early exit was an effective shock, but she had the potential to add more intrigue to the season.
6. Se-Mi – Betrayed Twice Before Meeting a Brutal End
Player: 380
Died In: “Friend or Foe” (Season 2, Episode 7)
Se-Mi was a fearless and intelligent player who repeatedly stood up to bullies Thanos and Nam-gyu. Her partnership with Park Min-su seemed promising—until he betrayed her during Mingle. If that wasn’t enough, Nam-gyu later attacked and killed her, while Min-su stood by and did nothing. Se-Mi had the skills to go far, making her death a frustrating loss.
5. Han Mi-Nyeo – A Strategic Player Who Let Revenge Win
Player: 212
Died In: “VIPS” (Season 1, Episode 7)
Han Mi-nyeo was manipulative, abrasive, and incredibly entertaining. She consistently found ways to escape elimination, but her thirst for revenge on Jang Deok-su sealed her fate. Rather than using her cunning to outlast others, she chose to take Deok-su down with her. While her death was satisfying in the moment, she had the potential to be a long-term strategist.
4. Park Jung-Bae – A Rebellion Cut Short
Player: 212
Died In: “Friend or Foe” (Season 2, Episode 7)
Park Jung-bae, Seong Gi-hun’s childhood friend, revealed himself to be a former Korean Marine and a formidable competitor. His leadership helped fuel a rebellion against the Front Man, but he met a tragic fate when he failed to warn Gi-hun about Oh Young-il’s true identity. Jung-bae’s presence in Season 3 would have been compelling, making his early demise a major loss.
3. Ali Abdul – The Most Heartbreaking Betrayal
Player: 199
Died In: “Gganbu” (Season 1, Episode 6)
Ali Abdul was one of Squid Game’s most beloved characters, thanks to his kindness and resilience. However, his trusting nature led to his downfall when Cho Sang-woo tricked him into handing over his marbles. Ali had proven himself to be a skilled player, making his elimination feel particularly cruel. His presence in later games could have added emotional depth to the story.
2. Kang Sae-Byeok – A Winner Who Never Got the Chance
Player: 067
Died In: “Front Man” (Season 1, Episode 8)
Kang Sae-byeok was one of the strongest contenders to win the first Squid Game, driven by her mission to reunite her family. However, her fate was sealed when she was injured by an explosion in Glass Stepping Stones. This led to her being an easy target for Sang-woo. Fans have long debated whether her death was necessary, as she had all the makings of a true winner.
1. Choi Su-Bong (Thanos) – The Best Season 2 Villain
Player: 230
Died In: “Friend or Foe” (Season 2, Episode 7)
Thanos, played by Choi Seung-hyun, quickly became a standout in Season 2. Unlike other antagonists, his unpredictable nature and troubled past made him more than just a one-dimensional villain. His demise at the hands of Lee Myung-gi left viewers shocked, as he had the potential to be the main antagonist for Season 3. His absence leaves a void that Nam-gyu will have to fill.
While Squid Game thrives on its unpredictability, some eliminations felt like missed opportunities. From Kang Sae-byeok’s wasted potential to Thanos’ untimely exit, these characters had more to offer. As fans gear up for Season 3, one thing remains certain—no one is safe in Squid Game.
