Squid Game season 1 episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Seong Gi-hun, a debt-ridden chauffeur, struggles financially and resorts to gambling. After a mysterious encounter involving a game of ddakji, he's invited to a secretive, high-stakes competition. The first game, a deadly version of "Red Light, Green Light," reveals the fatal consequences of losing. Amid chaos and panic, Gi-hun survives with the help of other players, including an old man and a North Korean defector. The episode sets a dark and suspenseful tone for the series.
Full Episode S01E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Squid Game?
A childhood game where players are divided into offense and defense, playing in a court shaped like a squid.
Who is Seong Gi-hun?
A financially struggling chauffeur and the main character of the show.
Why does Gi-hun borrow money from his mother?
He claims it's for his daughter Ga-yeong's birthday gift.
What happens at the ATM with Gi-hun?
He struggles to remember his mother's birthday, which is the PIN, but eventually recalls it.
How does Gi-hun win money initially?
He wins a bet at horse races.
What happens after Gi-hun wins at the races?
He is pickpocketed by a woman and then confronted by loan sharks.
How does Gi-hun avoid getting hurt by loan sharks?
He signs a waiver of his physical rights and promises to pay back his debt.
What game does the mysterious man invite Gi-hun to play?
Ddakji, a traditional Korean game.
What is the first game in the mysterious competition?
"Red Light, Green Light."
How does "Red Light, Green Light" work in the show?
Players move on 'Green Light' and must stop on 'Red Light.' If they move after 'Red Light,' they are eliminated.
What happens to players who are eliminated in "Red Light, Green Light"?
They are shot and killed.
How does Gi-hun survive the first game?
He survives by following the advice of other players and remaining still during 'Red Light.'
Who helps Gi-hun in the first game?
An old man (#001) and a defector from North Korea (#067) are among those who help him.
What is the emotional tone at the end of the episode?
The tone is grim and traumatic, as players realize the deadly nature of the games.
How many players are in the competition?
There are 456 players in total.