Get ready, Australia! The highly anticipated final season of Squid Game arrives next week, bringing an end to the dystopian thriller that captivated the world. For star Lee Jung-jae, the man who brought Gi-hun to life, saying goodbye to the show isn't easy. At 52, he's been instrumental in the global phenomenon's success, and in a recent interview, he shared his reflections on the journey and what the future holds.

Squid Game exploded onto Netflix in 2021, quickly becoming the platform’s most-watched series. Its unique blend of suspense, social commentary, and visually arresting set pieces resonated with audiences worldwide. The show’s premise – desperate individuals competing in deadly children’s games for a massive cash prize – tapped into universal anxieties about economic inequality and the lengths people will go to for survival.

Lee Jung-jae, a seasoned actor with a career spanning decades in Korean cinema, delivered a captivating performance as Gi-hun, the protagonist grappling with debt and the moral implications of participating in the games. His portrayal earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award, solidifying his status as a global star.

“It’s a bittersweet feeling,” Lee Jung-jae confessed in a recent interview. “Squid Game has given me so much – opportunities I never dreamed of, recognition from audiences all over the world, and the chance to work with incredibly talented people. It’s hard to imagine life without Gi-hun.”

The final season promises to answer lingering questions and delve deeper into the motivations behind the game’s creators. Speculation is rife about what will happen to Gi-hun and whether he will seek revenge or attempt to dismantle the system that fuels the games. The trailer has already teased a potentially even darker and more complex storyline, hinting at new characters and challenges.

While the future of Squid Game as a series may be ending, Lee Jung-jae's career is undoubtedly entering a new chapter. He has a number of exciting projects in the pipeline, showcasing his versatility as an actor. However, he acknowledges that Squid Game will always hold a special place in his heart.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the impact Squid Game has had,” he added. “It’s a show that sparked conversations and challenged perspectives. I hope that its legacy will continue to inspire people to think critically about the world around them.”

So, mark your calendars, Aussies! Next week, prepare to say goodbye to Squid Game and reflect on the cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of television forever. Will Gi-hun find redemption? Tune in to find out!