Ranking the 10 Best New Characters in Squid Game Season 2

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Squid Game season 2, episodes 1-7.

The highly anticipated Squid Game season 2 returns with protagonist Gi-hun re-entering the harrowing tournament. This season brings a plethora of new characters, each as memorable as those from the first season, with some even surpassing their predecessors. Given that this season consists of only seven episodes, it allows for an in-depth exploration of individual players and their backstories between the deadly games.

Forming alliances is critical in the Games, and as Gi-hun interacts with various supporting characters, including his old friend Park Jung-bae, it becomes clear that new faces play significant roles—despite Jung-bae’s somewhat tragic arc. Jung-bae may not qualify as a new character per se, but his impact resonates throughout the season. Notably, season 2 introduces many compelling characters, each contributing to the narrative with unique complexity and charm.

10 Myung-gi (Player 333)

Played By Im Si-wan

Myung-gi enters Squid Game season 2 as a character with questionable ethics. As a financial YouTuber, he encourages investments in MG Coin, leading many players into debilitating debts. His complex relationship with Jun-hee, who is pregnant with his child, only adds to his morally ambiguous nature. While Myung-gi’s reputation seems tarnished by his actions, particularly during the Mingle incident that led to Young-mi’s death, he paradoxically saves other key characters, complicating his role.

Despite being flawed, Myung-gi proves to be a more capable player than others like Nam-gyu and Min-su, whose cruelty and cowardice, respectively, hold them back. Interestingly, Myung-gi shows a protective side by advocating for Min-su, highlighting his depth and making him a fascinating character within the cutthroat environment of the Games.

9 Young-mi (Player 095)

Played By Kim Si-eun

Young-mi is one of the season’s most relatable characters. She initially opts to join the tournament but experiences a rapid change of heart during the games. Her kind, level-headed nature makes her struggle to escape all the more poignant, engendering sympathy from viewers. Nevertheless, while she is likable, her somewhat generic portrayal might cause her to fade into the background amidst stronger personalities.

Her camaraderie with fellow contestant Hyun-ju adds a layer to her character, but questions linger regarding her motivations for participating in the Games, leaving her overall impact somewhat muted.

8 Park Yong-sik (Player 007)

Played By Yang Dong-geun

Park Yong-sik finds himself in the tournament due to a series of unfortunate decisions. Although none of the players are exemplary decision-makers, Yong-sik’s choices, especially those threatening his elderly mother, complicate his character. He demonstrates a blend of courage and cowardice, leading to character growth that reveals his inner turmoil.

Asting his character’s potential for development, his emotional breakdown highlights a struggle between familial duty and self-preservation, making him a compelling participant in the gruesome Games.

7 Kim Jun-hee (Player 222)

Played By Jo Yu-ri

Entering the games pregnant, Jun-hee showcases remarkable fortitude throughout her journey. Her willingness to confront her past with Myung-gi signifies growth, emphasizing her resilience despite the relentless pressure of the Games. Jun-hee remains a voice of reason when others falter, establishing her as a character with depth and realism.

Her ability to perceive the reality of their situation sets her apart, and although quieter than others, her strength shines through in tragic moments, ensuring viewers remain invested in her journey.

6 Gyeong-seok (Player 246)

Played By Lee Jin-uk

Gyeong-seok is driven by a heartbreaking motivation: protecting his daughter diagnosed with blood cancer. His selfless quest to generate funds through the Games illustrates his intense dedication to fatherhood. Each appearance reinforces his good-hearted nature. However, the storyline does not delve deeply enough into Gyeong-seok’s character, making it challenging to grasp the full scope of his motivations beyond his parental bond.

Though Gyeong-seok displays acts of heroism, his light screen time and simplistic backstory hold him back from fully fleshing out his character, leaving fans wanting more from his journey.

5 Thanos (Player 230)

Played By Choi Seung-hyun

Among the new entrants, Thanos stands out as the most entertaining character, with his vibrant purple hair and exuberant demeanor. Although he occupies the villainous role, his charisma makes it hard for viewers not to find him captivating. From his antics during the Red Light Green Light game to his outrageous behavior in other scenes, Thanos injects a unique flavor of dark humor and excitement.

His interactions with fellow contestants reveal layers that could have been further explored had his character not met a premature end, but his presence undeniably adds vibrancy to the season.

4 Kang Dae-ho (Player 388)

Played By Kang Ha-neul

Kang Dae-ho emerges as a cherished ally of Gi-hun in Season 2. With an uplifting spirit and a strong moral compass, he quickly secures a place in the heart of the central alliance. His proactive contributions showcase his utility during the Games. However, the final episode reveals some inconsistencies in his portrayal, suggesting that his charming exterior may mask a lack of authenticity in terms of his heroic reputation.

These elements create a complex portrait of a character who, despite initial charm and perceived bravery, faces moral dilemmas during the tournament’s deadly competition.

3 Jang Geum-ja (Player 149)

Played By Kang Ae-shim

Jang Geum-ja finds herself embroiled in the Games due to her son’s debts, but her resilience shines through from the outset. Combining her fierce spirit with combat experience from the Vietnam War, she displays extraordinary courage throughout the competition. Her nurturing nature and fierce demeanor make her a character to root for, earning her a special place in viewers’ hearts.

Despite a few misguided comments reflecting outdated beliefs, Geum-ja’s remarkable growth throughout the season suggests her willingness to learn and adapt, showcasing her as a character with depth and potential for development.

2 Hyun-ju (Player 120)

Played By Park Sung-hoon

Hyun-ju, representing the transgender community, adds rich complexity to the storyline. Her motivations for joining the Games include seeking gender-affirmative care, which instantly garners a sense of empathy from the audience. Throughout the season, she emerges as a compassionate ally, consistently uplifting her teammates and fighting for their survival.

Participating in Gi-hun’s resistance represents her growth and commitment, showcasing a mix of wit, strength, and humanity that resonates well with viewers. **Her relationship with Young-mi illustrates a beautiful, transformative connection, marking her as one of the standout characters in the season.

1 Choi Woo-seok

Played By Jeon Seok-ho

Choi Woo-seok emerges as a pivotal character outside the competition. Serving as a vital ally to Gi-hun after the tragic loss of his friend, Woo-seok’s unwavering loyalty propels the narrative forward. Unmoved by threats from the Salesman in the premiere, he actively seeks to dismantle the tournament, showcasing courage and determination.

His strong emotional commitment to Gi-hun encapsulates a friendship that evolves throughout the season, marked by humor and solidarity. Fans remain hopeful for his character’s fate in the upcoming Squid Game season 3, anticipated to release in 2025.

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