Transgender Character in 'Squid Game' Season 2: How Are Korean Audiences Reacting?

The global phenomenon Squid Game is back with its highly anticipated second season, and the character drawing the most attention is undoubtedly Cho Hyun-ju.

Portrayed by actor Park Sung-hoon, Cho Hyun-ju is a former special forces sergeant and a transgender woman with a compelling backstory. She enters the deadly game to fund her gender-affirming surgery. Her unique narrative, combined with Park Sung-hoon’s powerful performance, has sparked widespread discussion among viewers both in Korea and abroad.

A New Dimension in Squid Game

Cho Hyun-ju is a new addition to the series and one of the most multifaceted characters in Season 2. Her military background enables her to handle extreme challenges with remarkable composure. Despite the life-and-death stakes of the games, she fights for her dreams and identity, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Beyond her personal story, the character sheds light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, adding depth and resonance to the series.

Audience Praise and Critical Acclaim

Korean viewers have applauded the originality of Cho Hyun-ju’s character and Park Sung-hoon’s immersive acting. Social media buzz includes comments such as, “Cho Hyun-ju isn’t just a participant; she’s the heart of Season 2,” and “Park Sung-hoon has breathed life into this character with an incredible performance.”

Particularly notable is a gunfight scene showcasing Cho Hyun-ju’s military prowess, which fans have described as “charismatic, truly befitting a former special forces soldier.”

Internationally, Cho Hyun-ju has also garnered significant praise. Foreign media outlets have called her “the most intriguing and layered character in Season 2” and commended Park Sung-hoon for portraying her as a deeply human figure rather than a simple stereotype. Many critics view Cho Hyun-ju as a new benchmark for TV characters in a modern era.

On platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, fans worldwide have hailed Cho Hyun-ju as Squid Game Season 2’s best character, noting how her storyline serves as the emotional core of the season. Viewers have remarked that her arc showcases how the Squid Game brand can address societal issues beyond its survival game premise.

Season 2 Highlights

While Cho Hyun-ju’s story stands out, Squid Game Season 2 introduces various new characters and narratives. Returning champion Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) grapples with trauma and guilt as he re-enters the game, clashing with the enigmatic Front Man (Lee Byung-hun). Their performances create a dramatic tension that serves as one of the season’s key highlights.

Despite high expectations following the success of Season 1, reactions to Season 2 have been mixed. Positive reviews praise the introduction of fresh characters and stories while maintaining the tension of the original. However, some critics argue that the overall narrative lacks tightness and that certain scenes feel unnecessarily prolonged.

Nevertheless, Squid Game Season 2 continues to attract global attention, solidifying the franchise as a cultural phenomenon and proving its ability to expand its brand while tackling new themes.