Netflix's Korean survival drama Squid Game returned with a third series in June 2025, drawing global attention for both its storyline and the value of its fictional prize money. With ₩45.6 billion won at stake in the series, viewers worldwide are asking how much this equates to in US dollars and whether a fourth season is planned.
How Much Is ₩45.6 Billion in USD?
The headline prize of 45.6 billion South Korean won has become an enduring symbol of Squid Game since the series debuted in 2021. For international viewers, the sum converts to approximately $33.4 million USD or around 26.3 million GBP, based on mid-June 2025 exchange rates.
At that time, one South Korean won was valued at roughly 0.00073 US dollars or 0.00058 pounds sterling. Though exchange rates vary, the estimate offers useful perspective. The substantial cash prize continues to serve as a narrative anchor for the show's exploration of economic hardship, wealth inequality and the human cost of survival.
Season 3 Marks the End of Gi-hun's Journey
The recently released third series marks the final chapter in the journey of Seong Gi-hun, the show's central character. In these latest episodes, Gi-hun decides to infiltrate the organisation behind the games, risking his life once again in a bid to dismantle the system from within.
Themes of revenge, moral ambiguity and social justice drive the storyline, which creator Hwang Dong-hyuk describes as a 'full closure' to the character's arc. Netflix promoted Series 3 as the final instalment of the original Squid Game series, making clear that Gi-hun's journey had reached its endpoint.
No Season 4, But Spin-Offs Are Possible
In an official statement, Hwang addressed growing fan speculation about the possibility of a fourth series. He confirmed there would be no continuation of the main storyline, saying he wanted to offer closure for Gi-hun and avoid diluting the show's core themes.
However, Hwang left the door open for potential spin-offs within the Squid Game universe. He suggested that new projects might focus on the masked workers, explore the backstory of the recruiters, or fill in the three-year narrative gap between Series 2 and 3. The creator also hinted at exploring the series' global expansion, teased during the final series.
Franchise Growth: What's Next?
While the main narrative has ended, Netflix continues to expand the Squid Game brand. The reality spin-off Squid Game: The Challenge, which launched in late 2024, featured real contestants competing in game-inspired challenges for a significant cash prize. Though reviews were mixed, the show garnered strong ratings, reflecting enduring interest.
Rumours of an American adaptation are also gaining traction, fuelled by a surprise cameo from Cate Blanchett as a US-based recruiter in the Season 3 finale. Director David Fincher has reportedly been linked, although no official announcement has been made by Netflix.
For now, fans can consider the original storyline complete, with the possibility of new tales set in the Squid Game universe still on the horizon. Whether through reality spin-offs or international adaptations, the franchise continues to evolve.
