Lee Jung-jae’s Squid Game Transformation

Lee Jung-jae’s Physical and Mental Commitment to Gi-hun

Lee Jung-jae, the star of Netflix’s international hit Squid Game, has revealed the lengths he went to for the series’ final season—including a 10kg weight loss achieved by surviving on steamed vegetables. The South Korean actor reprised his role as Seong Gi-hun in the highly anticipated third and final installment, physically transforming himself to reflect the character’s mental collapse.

A Diet Fit for Despair

At a recent roundtable event in Seoul, Lee discussed his unorthodox preparation. “I was eating only steamed vegetables,” he said. “At first, I divided three meals into two. Then I just had one vegetable meal a day.” The actor explained this intense routine was designed to match Gi-hun’s deteriorating psychological state, showing the toll the deadly game has taken on the character.

Driven by Global Support and Artistic Integrity

Lee stated that the global popularity of Squid Game gave him an even deeper sense of responsibility to deliver a strong performance. “I felt I had to give everything I had,” he said. “The support of viewers around the world motivated me to prepare more sincerely and deeply.” His physical sacrifice was part of honoring that commitment.

Reflecting on the End of a Cultural Phenomenon

Now that filming has wrapped, Lee shared mixed emotions about saying goodbye to Gi-hun. “There’s a strange sadness,” he admitted. He also expressed admiration for Squid Game creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, who chose to end the series without compromising its artistic vision. “He’s someone who puts story and message before commercial success.”

Acting with a Robotic Baby—and Real Emotion

One of the more unusual challenges Lee faced during the final season was performing with a life-sized digital baby. “It was awkward at first,” he said. “But after about a week, it started to feel like a real child. I got emotional.” The interaction helped drive home the emotional themes of fatherhood and redemption central to the final chapter.

Accepting Criticism and Conversation

Lee acknowledged that reactions to the final season have been divided. Rather than being discouraged, he welcomed the criticism, viewing it as part of a meaningful dialogue with viewers. “It’s a good thing people care enough to have different opinions. That shows the story had an impact.”