Jo Yu-ri & Im Si-wan Discuss Their Characters’ Complex Reunion in Squid Game

The highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2 has welcomed Jo Yu-ri and Im Si-wan into its ensemble. In this new chapter, Yu-ri portrays Kim Jun-hee, also known as Player 222, an orphan who finds herself in a complicated relationship with Lee Myung-gi, played by Si-wan. Once a thriving YouTuber, Myung-gi’s reputation crumbled due to a fraudulent cryptocurrency venture, which resulted in a significant fallout. As fate would have it, Jun-hee and Myung-gi, who had previously parted ways, cross paths once again amid the high-stakes turmoil of the Squid Games.

At just 23 years old, Yu-ri is carving a niche in the acting world, having previous fame as a member of the popular South Korean-Japanese girl group Iz*One. In contrast, Si-wan boasts an extensive acting career that began in 2010, earning him renown for his performances in notable films like The Attorney and Road to Boston.

To commemorate the debut of Season 2 on Netflix, ScreenRant had the opportunity to interview Yu-ri and Si-wan. They delved into their characters’ backstories, exploring the evolution of Myung-gi’s motives as he navigates the Squid Games, particularly after re-encountering Jun-hee. The conversation offered insights into how their on-screen chemistry was developed beyond the script provided by esteemed director Hwang Dong-hyuk.

The dialogue during the interview was conducted in Korean and subsequently translated into English for accessibility.

Where Did Jun-hee & Myung-gi Go Wrong Before Squid Game?

“He didn’t even answer when Jun-hee tried to reach him…”

Jo Yu-ri as Kim Jun-hee and Yim Si-wan as Lee Myeong-gi in Squid Game Season

Jo Yu-ri: Jun-hee is pregnant and he didn’t keep in touch, and then he didn’t even answer when Jun-hee tried to reach him. That’s the main reason why Jun-hee is so resentful towards Myung-gi. Also, Jun-hee lost a lot of money because of Myung-gi. That’s another reason.

How Do Myung-gi’s Squid Game Motives Change When Jun-hee Arrives?

“I don’t think [he’s] completely lost his human side yet…”

Myung-gi standing in a crowd and talking in Squid Game Season 2

Myung-gi’s motivations for entering the Squid Game stem from his involvement in a cryptocurrency scam. How does Jun-hee’s presence shift those motivations, and what feelings are reignited?

Im Si-wan: Jun-hee’s presence significantly influences Myung-gi’s character development throughout the season. In isolation, Myung-gi experiences one reality, but adding Jun-hee into the mix changes the dynamic entirely. I don’t believe he has entirely lost his humanity. His protective instincts towards her reveal a sliver of his former self and add depth to his character arc.

Jun-hee & Myung-gi’s Dynamic “Will Continue To Evolve”In Squid Game

“There are a few additional lines to clarify where these two characters stand…”

Im Si-wan: The portrayal of the relationship largely adheres to the script; however, there were instances where we introduced additional elements to convey the nuances of their evolving dynamic. This subtle and intricate relationship will undoubtedly continue developing as the show progresses.

About Squid Game Season 2

Created by Hwang Dong-hyuk

The storyline picks up three years after the events of the first season, with Player 456 opting to return instead of heading to the United States. Gi-hun returns with renewed determination as he once again becomes embroiled in the perilous survival game, facing new contenders vying for the grand prize of 45.6 billion won.

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who made history at the 74th Primetime Emmys by winning Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series—the first Asian to achieve this—continues to helm the series as director, writer, and producer. Key cast members from Season 1, including Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo, reprise their roles, complemented by a strong roster of new actors such as Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, and others who enrich the series with diverse characters.

Watch the trailer here