Im Si-wan, Actor Im Si-wan has drawn backlash from viewers after the premiere of Netflix's Squid Game Season 3, in which his character, Lee Myeong-gi, a cunning and cold-hearted individual, has generated an outpouring of criticism both online and offline.

The third installment of the global hit series debuted last week, and viewers were quick to single out Si-wan's character as one of the most controversial additions to the cast.

Known for his wholesome image and nuanced acting, Si-wan took a sharp turn in his career with the role of Myeong-gi, a former pediatrician who becomes increasingly sadistic in the life-or-death games.

Social media platforms have since been flooded with reactions from fans, with some calling his character "the most hated in Squid Game history" and others questioning the psychological toll of such a role.

"Im Si-wan shocked everyone," said cultural critic Han Ji-woo.

"He's always been seen as the good guy. But in Squid Game 3, he's absolutely chilling. It's a bold move that proves his acting range, but it's also jarring for long-time fans."

In one particularly harrowing scene from episode 5, Lee Myeong-gi betrays a fellow player during a team challenge, leading to the player's death.

The moment quickly went viral, with clips circulating on X (formerly Twitter) under hashtags such as #LeeMyeonggi and #SquidGameVillain.

"I've never hated a character so much," one user wrote. "Si-wan's acting is TOO good—it made me sick."

Despite the criticism aimed at his character, Im Si-wan said he approached the role with a deep sense of responsibility.

"It wasn't easy to play someone like Myeong-gi," he told reporters during a press junket held in Seoul.

"I wanted to explore the darker parts of human nature, and I knew this would challenge both me and the audience."

He added, "If viewers are uncomfortable, that means I've done my job as an actor."

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who returned to helm the third season, defended the casting choice and character arc. "Myeong-gi represents the type of person who hides cruelty behind professionalism and status," he explained.

"We needed someone who could bring complexity and humanity to that villainy—and Im Si-wan delivered."

Still, the backlash has prompted some to call for more sensitivity in how traumatic themes are depicted.

Both mental health advocates and parents have expressed concern about the intensifying graphicness of the series and the depiction of children's security, and the ethics of depicting medical professionals.

Netflix has not commented on the controversy, but viewership numbers suggest that the series remains a global juggernaut.

According to FlixData, Squid Game 3 topped charts in over 80 countries during its opening weekend.

Whether reviled or revered, Im Si-wan's performance has left an undeniable mark.

As the season continues to unfold, audiences remain divided on Lee Myeong-gi—but united in their fascination with the darkness of the game.