How did Thanos aka player 230 sneak in the cross with the drugs? Squid Game 2 biggest plot hole explored

T.O.P as Thanos in Squid Game season 2 (Image via Netflix)
T.O.P as Thanos in Squid Game season 2 (Image via Netflix)

Squid Game season 2 gained immediate success upon release on December 26, 2024, reaching number one on Netflix's top ten charts within 24 hours. However, a plot device introduced in season 2 episode 3 was quickly pointed out as a major plot hole by some viewers. This plot hole revolved around one of the newly introduced characters, player 230, also known as Thanos, who was seen consuming pills hidden inside his cross necklace.

This storyline raised an intriguing yet perplexing question among the viewers: how did Thanos manage to sneak drugs past the supposedly stringent security checks of the Squid Game operators? One possible theory is that the organizers allowed it to enhance the entertainment value for the VIPs, introducing an element of unpredictability.

Disclaimer: This article contains the author's opinions and interpretations regarding the events and plot developments in Squid Game season 2. The theories presented are speculative and not officially confirmed by the show's creators.


The Thanos plot hole: How did player 230 get away with sneaking drugs into Squid Game season 2?

Thanos from Squid Game season 2, portrayed by real-life rapper Choi Seung-hyun (T.O.P), was depicted as a flamboyant rapper burdened by significant debt. His financial troubles began after following investment advice from Player 333, Myung-gi, a cryptocurrency YouTuber. When those investments crashed, leaving him bankrupt, Thanos entered the game.

In Squid Game season 2 episode 3, during the "Red Light, Green Light" game, Thanos was observed to quickly retrieve a pill with shaking hands after a woman in front of him was killed. These pills, which he consumed to steady his nerves, were seen to be concealed within the cross necklace he wore around his neck. The character was later seen using drugs before each game throughout the series and even shared them with a fellow contestant.

This scenario raised pressing questions about the game's security protocols. Historically, the Squid Game operators had enforced stringent measures, confiscating personal items to maintain the integrity of the competition.

For example, Seong Gi-hun had a tracking device embedded in his tooth to help his allies locate him, but it was removed during a security check. Additionally, Player 149, an elderly woman who joined to get money for her son's debt, mentioned being prohibited from bringing supplies for her medical needs. Such details emphasized the operators' strict regulations regarding personal items.

Given this, it seems implausible that Thanos was allowed to retain a necklace containing drugs. Even though some participants carried accessories like jewelry, it appears unlikely that an item with hidden contraband would escape detection.

One prevailing theory suggested that the organizers were aware of the drugs but permitted them to enhance the games' unpredictability and entertainment value for the VIPs. This perspective aligns with the show's portrayal of the games as a spectacle designed to amuse wealthy elites, where introducing elements of chaos could heighten viewer engagement.

Supporting this theory is the instance of Player 149 managing to conceal a hairpin, later revealed to be a makeshift knife. While this could have been an oversight, it is plausible that the operators allowed it to give an ostensibly disadvantaged player a surprising edge, adding to the drama.

If the theory holds, it raises questions about the integrity and intent behind the Squid Game's rules. The games are portrayed as fair on the surface, with the organizers meticulously stripping participants of personal items to ensure equality. However, the allowances of certain contraband suggest the operators may manipulate circumstances to cater to their audience's preferences.

Ultimately, Thanos's cross and its hidden drugs serve as a glaring inconsistency that challenges the believability of the game's security measures. Whether it was an intentional decision or a plot oversight, the scene has undoubtedly sparked debate among fans.

As viewers continue to dissect the details of season two, it becomes evident that Squid Game's blend of high-stakes drama and moral ambiguity keeps audiences hooked despite the storyline not entirely adding up. Fans will have to wait for season 3 to discover whether there are reasons behind the inconsistencies.


Squid Game season 2 raises the intensity with a staggering prize of 45.6 billion KRW and a fresh roster of desperate contestants. Lee Jung-jae returns as Seong Gi-hun, rejoining the lethal competition three years after his initial win to unravel its dark secrets. Meanwhile, Wi Ha-joon reprises his role as police officer Jun-ho, determined to uncover the truth behind his missing brother, In-ho.

This season introduces an exciting ensemble cast featuring Im Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, Lee Jin-wook, and Park Sung-hoon. Under the direction of Hwang Dong-hyuk, the series delves into heightened emotional and personal stakes, offering a deeper exploration of the contestants' lives and motivations.

Additionally, Netflix has officially confirmed the highly anticipated season 3 of Squid Game, scheduled to premiere in 2025. This final installment will be the series' grand conclusion, wrapping up the gripping story once and for all.

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Edited by Ivanna Lalsangzuali
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