In 1920s Korea, Yangjin and Kim Hoonie shield their only child, Kim Sunja, from the realities of life under colonial rule. In 1989, Solomon Baek closes a big deal.

Hoping to win easy money, a broke and desperate Gi-hun agrees to take part in an enigmatic game. Not long into the first round, unforeseen horrors unfold.

Split on whether to continue or quit, the group holds a vote. But their realities in the outside world may prove to be just as unforgiving as the game.