‘Squid Game’ Season 3 Faces Backlash Over Unrealistic Birth Scene in Episode 2

The newly released third season of Netflix’s hit series ‘Squid Game’ has sparked controversy, not for its violence or twisted game design—but for a childbirth scene that many viewers are calling unrealistic and poorly executed.

The moment occurs in Episode 2, where contestant Kim Jun-hee suddenly goes into labor in the middle of a high-stakes survival challenge. With no warning or buildup, Jun-hee delivers her baby with the assistance of fellow contestant Geum Ja, played by Kang Ae-sim. The entire scene unfolds in under five minutes and lacks any sign of medical realism, a detail that has left fans puzzled and, in many cases, frustrated.

Critics have taken to social media to voice their concerns. One user posted, “So no one’s going to talk about how she gave birth in five minutes?” Another pointed out the bizarre sequence of events, writing, “Junhee gave birth in less than 15 minutes, no bleeding, no pain, no placenta—yet her broken ankle was more serious than childbirth? The baby had no diapers, was barely fed, and still survived.”

What was seemingly meant to be an emotional or symbolic moment in the series has instead come under fire for lacking authenticity, especially in a show that has otherwise been lauded for its gritty, immersive realism and biting social commentary.

Much of the criticism has been aimed at the show’s male director, with several viewers questioning his understanding of the physical and emotional complexities of childbirth. Many pointed out the glaring absence of amniotic fluid, post-delivery complications, or any signs of maternal pain during or after the birth.

“It’s not just about getting medical details wrong—it’s about treating childbirth like a throwaway plot device,” wrote one viewer on X (formerly Twitter). “That scene felt lazy and disrespectful, especially coming from a series that’s supposed to reflect human struggles.”

The backlash has overshadowed what was otherwise a highly anticipated return for the dystopian Korean series, which premiered globally on June 27. While ‘Squid Game’ has never shied away from pushing boundaries, fans are saying this particular scene felt forced and disconnected from the show’s otherwise grounded tone.

As of now, Netflix has not responded to the criticism, and the creators have not issued any statements. But the viral reaction to the scene raises larger questions about representation, realism, and the need for accurate storytelling—especially when dealing with something as profound as childbirth.

Whether the controversy will impact the show’s long-term reception remains to be seen, but for many viewers, Episode 2 of ‘Squid Game 3’ has left a lasting—if unintended—impression.

IT.