Squid Game Fans Surprised by the Best “Well-Rounded” New Character in Season 2

Despite some doubts that no show could surpass the first season’s success, Squid Game 2 has come back stronger than ever, boasting a lively ensemble of characters who have left viewers captivated and emotional. Notably, one fresh face in Squid Game 2 has sparked much conversation among fans, especially on the Squid Game subreddit, as they collectively express their admiration for this intriguing character that defied expectations.

Recently, Cho Hyun-ju, famously known as Player 120 in the popular series “Squid Game,” has been receiving heartfelt praise from viewers. A notable post on the show’s Reddit page this week, initiated by u/apolochik, reads, “As a trans man, this is the best trans representation I’ve ever seen.” This title encapsulates the sentiment shared by many who have come to appreciate the intricate trans representation delivered by Hyun-ju within “Squid Game,” offering viewers a genuine portrayal while also developing Hyun-ju into a rich and multifaceted character, transcending merely her trans identity.

As a trans man, this is the best trans representation I’ve ever seen
byu/apololchik insquidgame

Squid Game 2 Gives Fans the Trans Representation They Didn’t Know They Needed

In the world of K-drama as spectacular as Squid Game, it was quite daring to introduce a trans character, considering the traditional conservatism that pervades Korean society. Although transgender individuals have been legally allowed to identify with their chosen gender, there’s still a noticeable social prejudice and reluctance to accept them. In the realm of Korean entertainment and media, representation for transgender individuals is scarce, making Squid Game and its groundbreaking portrayal of a trans character stand out, with the exception of Itaewon Class from 2020.

Indeed, Squid Game skillfully developed Hyun-ju’s character, treating it with great sensitivity. What many viewers find particularly appealing about Hyun-ju is that she is a highly relatable and complex figure, boasting an engaging personality, a rich backstory, and profound motivations. Crucially, her transgender identity does not overshadow her character; instead, the series sensitively addresses her experiences with gender dysphoria in a thoughtful manner.

In the highly-upvoted comment from Reddit user u/twistoff_, this idea is echoed: “This character was fully developed, multidimensional, appealing, powerful, intelligent, and captivating, who also happened to be transgender. Her gender was relevant only in terms of its impact on her life, but she had numerous other characteristics that were utilized in her portrayal. I believe it’s one of the best representations of a character I’ve ever encountered.

In simpler terms, user ‘mara-star’ is saying that Hollywood should pay close attention to this trend. Many people are accepting of LGBTQ+ characters, but they don’t want these characters defined solely by their sexual orientation.

A noteworthy aspect of how Squid Game presents Hyun-ju is her quiet acceptance by other players, particularly Player 095 (Young-mi). Instead of addressing Hyun-ju formally, Player 095 affectionately calls her “unnie,” a term for an older sister or female friend. This subtle gesture signifies her acceptance of Hyun-ju and understanding of who she is. Even those initially unsure of Hyun-ju, like Player 149 (the old lady), gradually accept her as the series progresses. By the end of Season 2, the entire situation feels mature and authentic, with Hyun-ju patiently answering questions and demonstrating wisdom. u/mara-star’s original comment provides more detail on this point.

I found her to be my preferred character because she was portrayed as an ordinary individual, yet it was acknowledged that people may have preconceived notions and sometimes lack understanding. The concept of being trans might still seem unfamiliar or strange to some, but this doesn’t necessarily imply they harbor malicious intent towards you as a person.

All in all, Park Sung-hoon (known as “Queen of Tears”) deserves praise for his exceptional portrayal of Hyun-ju. This role was likely quite different from anything he’s tackled before, and it probably presented numerous challenges and expectations. However, by the end of it all, it seems clear that Sung-hoon delivered an outstanding performance. Fans have grown fondly attached to Player 120, and for now, they can only cross their fingers in anticipation that she makes it through to Squid Game 3, perhaps due to some lucky turn of events.

Both seasons of Squid Game are available to stream on Netflix.

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2025-01-21 01:39