Actors Lee Jung-jae and Lee Seo-hwan reprise their roles in the much-anticipated Squid Game Season 2. Lee Jung-jae, a distinguished figure in South Korean cinema for over thirty years, gained international acclaim for his portrayal of Seong Gi-hun in the groundbreaking series. Opposite him is Lee Seo-hwan, a seasoned television star who also rose to prominence in 2020 as Park Jung-bae in Squid Game. Both actors have been vital to the show’s success and are eager to continue their characters’ journeys in this new installment.
In the first season, Gi-hun emerged as the sole survivor of the 33rd Squid Game, winning a staggering ₩45.6 billion. The harrowing experience left him as the last player standing, as his fellow finalist tragically lost his life in the climactic round. Park Jung-bae, portrayed by Seo-hwan, is Gi-hun’s friend who, after his reintroduction in Season 2, finds himself entangled in the deadly games.
In connection with the release of Season 2 on Netflix, ScreenRant had insightful discussions with both actors. They elaborated on Gi-hun’s motivations for re-entering the game, the complexities of Jung-bae’s friendships throughout the competition, and valuable lessons learned while filming both Season 2 and Season 3 back-to-back. It’s noteworthy that the original responses were provided in Korean and translated for the interview.
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“He thought the Trojan horse method was the best method…”
ScreenRant: Why does Gi-hun feel he must return to the game instead of tackling it externally?
Lee Jung-jae: He believes that confronting the Front Man, the VIPs, and the soldiers from outside the game is impractical. He sees the ‘Trojan horse’ approach as the most effective way to infiltrate the games and uncover the truth.
Testing the Bonds of Friendship
“Things don’t go as planned for him from the very beginning…”
Seo-hwan, it’s ironic that Jung-bae encounters a friend within the game’s perilous confines. How do your choices redefine your relationship?
Lee Seo-hwan: In Season 1, Jung-bae was like family to Gi-hun, but now, the dynamics have shifted to a camaraderie forged in danger. While they share friendship, it’s a different kind of bond. The stakes are high, and with uncertainty looming from the start, Jung-bae must adapt quickly and cling to hope.
Impact of Filming Two Seasons Back-to-Back
“I could so feel and relate to Gi-hun…”
Jung-jae, having been deeply involved in Season 1, how did filming both seasons consecutively alter your views on Gi-hun?
Lee Jung-jae: I strongly resonate with Gi-hun; our mindsets align significantly. He starts Season 2 in a vulnerable place, scarred by past trauma and uncertainties about his abilities. My goal was to deliver Gi-hun’s psychological journey convincingly, showcasing the profound impacts of his experiences both mentally and physically.
Additional Insights on Squid Game Season 2
Set three years post-Gi-hun’s victory in the inaugural Squid Game, Player 456 returns with renewed resolve. Gi-hun plunges back into the enigmatic survival game, where new contestants vie once again for the staggering prize of ₩45.6 billion.
Acclaimed director Hwang Dong-hyuk, recognized as the first Asian to win the Emmy for Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series, continues his role as the director, writer, and producer. Original cast members Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo are joined by a talented ensemble of newcomers, including Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, and many others, who collectively enrich the upcoming season.
Watch Squid Game Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
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