Squid Game star Lee Jung-Jae has come under fresh fire for his performance in the Netflix drama's third season, with fans and pundits divided on his portrayal of lead character Seong Gi-hun.

Lee, 51, first garnered widespread acclaim for his emotionally layered role as the downtrodden Gi-hun in Squid Game Season 1, earning him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series—the first Korean actor to receive the honor.

His first career was defined by breakthrough roles in dramas, including Sandglass, and films, including Atir-God of the Ocean, where he was celebrated for his charisma and subtlety.

However, the reception to his performance in the latest season has been mixed. Many online viewers have voiced concerns over what they describe as "lethargic" and "disconnected" acting.

"He seems like he's not acting," one social media user wrote. Another added, "It's hard to follow his emotional line."

Others pointed out that Gi-hun's presence feels noticeably less impactful than in the earlier seasons.

International critics echoed the sentiment. In addition to praising the overall direction and storytelling of Squid Game Season 3, the reviews noted a "decline in emotional depth" in Lee's performance in comparison to the raw trajectory of Season 1.

In response to the growing criticism, Lee addressed the shift in his character's demeanor. "In Season 3, Seong Gi-hun is no longer just a player in the game," he said.

"He's someone trying to punish exploiters and abusers. He's not a messiah, but a father striving for a just world."

The actor emphasized that the new arc required a different emotional tone. "I tried to show his inner tension—someone who's broken but still moving forward," Lee explained.

While the lead actor's portrayal has drawn debate, Squid Game Season 3 has still been lauded for its bold themes and performances by the supporting cast.

The series has shot to No. 1 on Netflix charts in 93 countries and is being hailed for its philosophical depth and its reflection on societal injustice.

Still, some fans have expressed nostalgia for the intense survival drama tone of the first season, where Gi-hun's desperation and vulnerability were more prominent.

"It feels like he's a different person now," said one longtime fan. "I understand character evolution, but it's harder to connect with him emotionally."

Despite the controversy, anticipation remains high for Lee's next moves, both within and beyond Squid Game.

The veteran actor has multiple projects in development, including a directorial feature and a rumored Hollywood collaboration.

"Acting is about transformation," Lee said. "Not every role will be comfortable to watch. But every story deserves to be told with honesty."

Lee Jung-jae remains a central figure in Korea's entertainment landscape, but as the debate around his latest role continues, so too does the conversation about what viewers expect from their heroes, both onscreen and off.