Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Squid Game season 2, episode 3.
Introduction to New Characters in Squid Game Season 2
In the highly anticipated Squid Game season 2, a myriad of new characters join the fray, one of the most significant being Hyun-ju, also known as Player 120. This season continues to feature beloved characters portrayed by original cast members, including Lee Jung-jae as Seong Gi-hun and Gong Yoo as the enigmatic Salesman. Yet, the introduction of new participants enhances the intrigue, adding layers to the storyline as diverse characters navigate the brutal challenges of the games.
Hyun-ju: A New Face with a Powerful Story
Hyun-ju is a transgender woman entering the deadly games in pursuit of funds for her gender-affirming surgery. Facing rejection from her family and losing her position as a Special Forces soldier following her coming out, Hyun-ju embodies resilience and determination. Her aspirations extend beyond mere survival; she dreams of relocating to Thailand to begin anew. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk emphasizes the rarity of transgender representation in Korean media, expressing hope that Hyun-ju will resonate with audiences globally.
Park Sung-hoon Takes on the Role of Hyun-ju
The portrayal of Hyun-ju is in the hands of Park Sung-hoon, a talented South Korean actor with a career spanning over a decade. Park came into the spotlight in the 2010s through his role in My Only One, and has since diversified his portfolio with numerous K-dramas and films. Despite being played by a cisgender man, Hyun-ju’s character is designed to break stereotypes and inspire others around her. Park described Hyun-ju as a resilient natural leader, exemplifying strength amidst prejudice and adversity.
Park Sung-hoon’s Career Highlights
In addition to his role in Squid Game season 2, Park Sung-hoon is also recognized for his performance in Queen of Tears, one of the standout K-dramas of 2024, where he plays Yoon Eun-sung, a character with ambitions of seizing control of the powerful Queens Group. This breakout role follows his previous work in the revenge drama The Glory, where he effectively captured the complexities of his character, Jeon Jae-joon.
Notable Films and TV Roles
| Park Sung-hoon’s Notable Movies & TV Shows | Role |
|---|---|
| Queen of Tears (2024) | Yoon Eun-sung/David Yoon |
| The Bequeathed (2024) | Cameo |
| The Glory (2022-2023) | Jeon Jae-joon |
| The Kidnapping Day (2023) | Yoon Eun-seong |
| Forbidden Dream (2023) | Lee Hyang |
| High Society (2018) | Jason |
Pursuing a diverse array of projects, Park’s recent appearance in Netflix’s The Bequeathed signals his versatility as an actor and storytelling talent. As K-drama continues to gain global popularity, Squid Game season 2 marks a significant moment for Park Sung-hoon, solidifying his status in the industry.
For more insights on Squid Game season 2 and the transformation of its characters, check out the full interview on InStyle.