Character Analysis in Squid Game

Seong Gi-hun (456)

Seong Gi-hun, the protagonist of Squid Game, represents a layered and deeply human character. Initially, he appears as a struggling gambler who faces immense financial difficulties, unable to provide for his family or even maintain basic stability in his life. However, his journey through the brutal games reveals his hidden qualities: empathy, resilience, and an underlying moral compass. His character arc showcases his transformation from a self-centered individual to someone who prioritizes others' well-being, even at great personal cost. His actions, such as sharing food or protecting weaker players, illustrate his humanity amidst the chaos.

Cho Sang-woo (218)

Cho Sang-woo, Gi-hun's childhood friend, is a stark contrast to the protagonist. An intelligent and successful individual on the surface, Sang-woo embodies ambition that ultimately spirals into desperation and moral compromise. His character represents the dark side of competitive success and the lengths to which people might go to preserve their status. Sang-woo's choices in the game—betraying alliances, exploiting trust, and sacrificing others for his gain—highlight the ethical dilemmas and the dehumanizing effects of extreme survival scenarios.

Kang Sae-byeok (067)

Kang Sae-byeok, a North Korean defector, is a compelling character whose quiet determination and resourcefulness make her stand out. Her motivation to reunite her family drives her actions in the game, and her guarded demeanor underscores the hardships she has endured. Sae-byeok's vulnerability is revealed in rare moments of trust and connection, particularly with other players like Ji-yeong. Her tragic fate serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes and the fragile bonds formed under pressure.

Oh Il-nam (001)

Oh Il-nam, the elderly participant, initially appears as a weak and pitiable figure, yet his character takes on a deeply complex dimension by the series' end. His seeming frailty contrasts sharply with his role as the mastermind behind the games, a revelation that challenges viewers' perceptions and raises questions about morality, power, and the pursuit of entertainment. Il-nam's participation in the game, motivated by his desire to relive the thrill of life, blurs the line between victim and perpetrator, making him one of the most enigmatic characters in the series.

Ali Abdul (199)

Ali Abdul, a migrant worker from Pakistan, symbolizes innocence and the exploitation of the marginalized. His kindness and loyalty to his teammates stand out in the harsh environment of the game. Ali's naivety, however, becomes his downfall, as he places trust in Sang-woo, only to be betrayed. His story sheds light on themes of exploitation, inequality, and the harsh realities faced by immigrant workers in a foreign land.

Han Mi-nyeo (212)

Han Mi-nyeo is a polarizing character, known for her cunning, adaptability, and unfiltered behavior. Her actions often blur the line between strategy and desperation, making her one of the most unpredictable participants. Despite her abrasive exterior, moments of vulnerability reveal her underlying fear and humanity. Mi-nyeo's final act of sacrifice, taking Jang Deok-su down with her, underscores the complex interplay of revenge, survival, and agency.

Jang Deok-su (101)

Jang Deok-su, the gangster, epitomizes brute force and intimidation. His survival strategy is rooted in domination and fear, which make him a formidable adversary in the games. However, his reliance on violence and coercion ultimately isolates him, and his downfall reflects the unsustainability of power built on fear. Deok-su's character explores the theme of toxic masculinity and the consequences of unchecked aggression.

Themes Reflected Through Characters

Each character in Squid Game serves as a mirror to societal issues, from economic inequality and systemic exploitation to the psychological toll of competition and survival. Their interactions and choices not only drive the narrative but also invite viewers to reflect on the moral and ethical dilemmas posed by the extreme conditions of the game.