Can Seong Gi-hun Really Destroy the Game?
A critical analysis of whether Squid Game’s protagonist can achieve his goal of destroying the deadly competition, examining the complex power structures, wealth dynamics, and human nature that make this task nearly impossible.
The question of whether Seong Gi-hun can destroy the deadly competition in Squid Game Season 2 strikes at the heart of the series' central themes. The protagonist’s noble mission faces nearly insurmountable obstacles rooted in wealth, power, and human nature.
The scale of the operation is staggering. With a prize pool of 456 billion won (approximately $30 million), the games take place on a remote island within 24 hours of sailing distance from the mainland. The organizers employ a massive staff-to-player ratio, with estimates suggesting 2-3 staff members for each of the 456 contestants. This level of infrastructure and organization indicates powerful backing that goes far beyond what a single individual could hope to dismantle.
The games' continued existence relies on several key factors. First, there’s the endless supply of desperate individuals crushed by debt and poverty. The organizers exploit this vulnerability, knowing there will always be people willing to risk their lives for financial salvation. Second, the operation is protected by an intricate network of wealthy VIPs, corrupt officials, and sophisticated security systems.
What makes Gi-hun’s mission particularly challenging is his background as a former gambling addict who lost everything. While his intentions are noble, his approach often lacks strategic thinking and proper planning. His emotional reactions and impulsive decision-making, though understandable given his traumatic experiences, make him ill-equipped to tackle such a complex criminal enterprise.
The power structure behind the games extends into the highest levels of Korean society. The involvement of major financial groups, international VIPs, and potentially government officials creates a web of protection that would require more than just exposing the truth. These groups have the resources and influence to suppress investigations and silence opposition.
The irony lies in Gi-hun’s position as a game winner. His victory gave him wealth but also deeply traumatized him, driving his mission for revenge and justice. However, this same trauma may cloud his judgment and limit his effectiveness in achieving his goals. The organizers have likely dealt with previous winners attempting to expose or destroy their operation, suggesting they have contingency plans in place.
Even if Gi-hun manages to gather evidence and allies, the fundamental societal issues that make the games possible would remain. The wealth inequality, crushing debt, and desperate circumstances that drive people to participate cannot be solved by destroying one organization, no matter how evil it may be.
The path forward requires addressing systemic issues rather than focusing solely on eliminating the games. This might include advocating for financial reforms, supporting debt relief programs, and working to expose and address corruption at institutional levels. However, these solutions lack the dramatic appeal of direct confrontation that Gi-hun seems to prefer.