Why Ali Abdul Is the Heart of Squid Game: A Tragic Hero in a Ruthless World

When Netflix’s Squid Game took the world by storm, it wasn’t just the deadly games or social commentary that captivated millions — it was the unforgettable characters. Among them, one stood out for his kindness, loyalty, and emotional depth: Ali Abdul, the soft-spoken migrant worker who became the heart and soul of the series.

In a show where most characters are willing to deceive, manipulate, and even kill to survive, Ali’s compassion shines like a light in the darkness. His story is more than just a subplot — it’s the emotional anchor of Squid Game, reminding us what it truly means to be human.

A Symbol of Innocence in a Corrupt Game

From the moment Ali Abdul is introduced in Episode 1, his gentle demeanor and respectful nature immediately set him apart. Unlike many of the 456 desperate players, Ali doesn’t act out of greed or personal ambition. He joins the game to support his family — his wife and child — after being exploited as an undocumented laborer in South Korea.

Ali’s background isn’t just there for sympathy. It’s a powerful social message about how migrant workers are treated globally: overworked, underpaid, and overlooked. In a series full of people crushed by debt, Ali is the one most unjustly victimized by a broken system — yet he remains kind, trusting, and hopeful.

“We Are Not Horses. We Are Humans.”

Ali’s most iconic line comes during a moment of deep emotional turmoil:

“We are not horses. We are humans, and humans are supposed to help each other out.”

This quote, simple yet profound, reflects the very essence of Squid Game’s moral conflict. In a world where people are treated like disposable commodities, Ali dares to assert human dignity. His words challenge the cold, survivalist mentality of the game — and of modern society.

This one sentence made Ali not just a character, but a symbol — a voice for every invisible, exploited person in the real world.

Loyalty That Cost Him Everything

Ali's loyalty is unmatched. When Seong Gi-hun, the main protagonist, is struggling during the tug-of-war game, it’s Ali who holds the rope with raw strength, saving their team from certain death. When Gi-hun forgets his milk and wallet, Ali steps in to help without hesitation.

But his trust and loyalty ultimately lead to his downfall.

In the gut-wrenching Episode 6, Ali is paired with Cho Sang-woo — the educated man he admired. When Sang-woo tricks Ali into giving up his marbles with the false promise of a shared victory, it becomes one of the most shocking and emotional betrayals in modern television. Ali’s gentle eyes, filled with hope and trust, make the moment even more devastating.

Why Ali’s Death Hurts the Most

In a show known for its high death toll, why does Ali Abdul’s death hit the hardest?

Because he did everything right.

He worked hard, stayed kind, protected others, and never lost his humanity. In a game — and a world — that rewards cruelty, Ali’s goodness made him a target. His death is not just tragic; it’s symbolic. It shows that in a society ruled by profit and power, goodness is not enough to survive.

That harsh truth is exactly why Squid Game resonates with so many — and why Ali Abdul is its most unforgettable character.

Ali Abdul: The Moral Compass of Squid Game

More than just a fan favorite, Ali served as the show’s moral compass. While other characters blur the line between right and wrong, Ali remains true to his values until the very end. He proves that empathy is strength, not weakness — even in a world designed to destroy it.

Fans around the world connected deeply with his story. On social media, hashtags like #JusticeForAli trended globally, and countless viewers said they cried hardest during his final scene. His impact stretched far beyond the screen.

Final Thoughts: The Heart of the Series

In a series full of lies, betrayal, and violence, Ali Abdul stands as a beacon of hope. He reminded viewers that in the darkest moments, goodness still exists. His smile, humility, and heartbreaking story left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions.

Ali may not have won the game — but he won something far greater: the love and respect of the global audience. And in the end, that’s why Ali Abdul is — and always will be — the heart of Squid Game.