Netflix’s global phenomenon Squid Game returns with its highly anticipated Season 2, pulling audiences back to its chilling world of deadly competitions woven through the guise of childhood games. The stakes are even higher this time, promising more intensity, danger, and drama. Central to the storyline is Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), who, armed with his previous winnings, embarks on a perilous mission to dismantle the Squid Game organization.
Lee Jung-jae reprises his role as Gi-hun, now driven by justice after escaping the deadly games of Season 1. The divorced gambler-turned-winner returns with fierce determination to end the games for good, having transformed from contestant to avenger. Alongside him are familiar faces such as Lee Byung-hun as The Front Man, who presents surprising complexity, and Wi Ha-jun as the relentless detective Hwang Jun-ho, tirelessly seeking the truth about his brother's involvement.
Season 2 introduces various new characters who enrich the storyline, including Yim Si-wan as Myung-gi, whose reckless past as a cryptocurrency influencer leads him to view the games as his last chance at redemption, and Kang Ha-neul as Dae-ho, who may become Gi-hun’s unexpected ally. Other contestants such as Lee Jin-wook’s Gyeong-seok, who wants security for his family, and Park Sung-hoon’s Hyun-joo, who seeks funds for her gender confirmation surgery, showcase the diverse motivations driving each participant.
Despite the influx of new characters, Season 2's reception has not been entirely positive. Following its release on December 26, 2024, criticism emerged over the portrayal of women within the series. A review surfaced on the Korean forum theqoo, accentuating concerns about the representation of female characters as largely one-dimensional and primarily defined by motherhood. This criticism ignited discussions on social media platform X, where viewers voiced their frustration.
One netizen lamented, "It's really indigenous to see women only as mothers." This sentiment was echoed by another viewer who argued, "I respect mothers okay but women… have their own identity other than being a mother." Their comments reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the show's reliance on maternal themes.
While Season 1 highlighted multifaceted female characters like the resourceful Han Mi-nyeo (Kim Joo-yeong) and the fierce Kang Sae-byeok (Jung Ho-yeon), critics argue the new season reverts to stereotypes. Geum-ja, played by Kang Ae-sim, is depicted as solely motivated by her son’s well-being, drawing parallels to Jun-hee's struggles as she faces the consequences of betrayal. No-eul, portrayed by Park Gyu-young, experiences vulnerability as she searches for her daughter, but critics contend her character lacks depth as well.
The debate over female representation extends to Hyeon-joo, played by Park Sung-hoon, who, as a trans woman, seeks to fund her gender confirmation surgery through participating in the games. Although her storyline provides needed visibility, critiques arise questioning the overall lack of authentic female narratives within the male-driven themes dominating the series.
Netizens continue to advocate for more nuanced portrayals of women. One lamented, "Squid Game season 2 writer needs to learn how to write female characters from Alice in Borderland." Many felt the character choices reflected more of the writers’ bias than realistic human experiences, igniting calls for change to avoid continuously recycling outdated tropes.
The backlash against the depiction of women reached new heights following the first teaser trailer released back in June 2023, prompting widespread discussion. Despite adding female characters, audiences argue their roles seem reactionary—primarily aimed at diverting criticism rather than enhancing the storyline.
While Squid Game Season 2 strives to raise tensions with the staggering prize of 45.6 billion KRW and emotionally charged storylines, it faces scrutiny over its character development and representation. Viewers question whether the series can truly reflect its world’s complexity and tackle social issues genuinely moving forward.
It remains evident from the overwhelming discourse surrounding Squid Game Season 2, the series must address the diverse narratives and identities integral to human experiences, especially if it wishes to match the acclaim it garnered upon first release. The fans' voices suggest high expectations not only for gripping storylines but also for well-rounded, relatable characters unhindered by limiting tropes.
