Squid Game Explained: Jun-ho’s Deception to Gi-hun Regarding the Front Man’s True Identity

The enigmatic Front Man has consistently been a central figure in both seasons of Squid Game. In the recent season, he operates under the alias Oh Young-il, maintaining a close proximity to Gi-hun throughout the Games. Meanwhile, Jun-ho, the Front Man’s younger brother, is privy to his sibling’s true identity but opts not to disclose this critical information to Gi-hun.

At a pivotal point early in season 2, Gi-hun inquires if Jun-ho has uncovered the Front Man’s identity. Jun-ho feigns ignorance, stating he knows nothing. This raises intriguing questions about Jun-ho’s motivations for withholding such information—what compels him to protect this secret?

Protection For His Brother

The Man Who Saved His Life

Gi-hun understands that Jun-ho has an older brother, which justified Jun-ho’s infiltration into the Games during season 1. However, he is unaware that Hwang In-ho is the very person he has been pursuing. This confrontation occurs at the conclusion of season 1, when Jun-ho learns the brutal truth as In-ho reveals his identity by removing his mask while searching for his brother.

Jun-ho’s life is saved when he is rescued from drowning in season 2, yet he remains on a quest for answers regarding the Games and In-ho’s actions. A poignant exchange encapsulates this complex relationship:

Did you see his face?

No, I didn’t see his face. He was wearing a black mask.— Jun-ho to Gi-hun

Despite the betrayal he feels, Jun-ho’s deep-seated love for In-ho persists, especially considering the life-saving kidney donation he received from him. This bond fosters a sense of indebtedness, propelling Jun-ho to protect his brother from potential ramifications that could arise from the revelation of his criminal role in the Games.

Aware Of Gi-hun’s Passion

Gi-hun Will Do Anything to Stop the Front Man

Jun-ho’s decision to withhold information may also stem from his understanding of Gi-hun’s unwavering determination to dismantle the Games. Aware of Gi-hun’s willingness to take extreme actions, including possibly lethal ones, Jun-ho fears that revealing the truth could lead to irrevocable consequences for their relationship.

Can you forget? The people who died on that island? I saw things that you didn’t. I can help you with what you’re trying to do.— Jun-ho to Gi-hun

Even with the knowledge of his brother’s involvement in countless deaths, Jun-ho may still harbor hopes for In-ho’s redemption, seeking ways to save him from greater punishment. However, it is likely that even if Jun-ho revealed the Front Man’s identity, Gi-hun would remain committed to confronting In-ho about his heinous actions.

Wants To Stop the Front Man Himself

Jun-ho Will Want to Hear His Brother Out

With the revelation of In-ho’s identity as the Front Man, Jun-ho may feel compelled to confront his brother directly rather than allowing Gi-hun to steer the course of action. Although bound by his duties as a police officer, Jun-ho may explore avenues to minimize In-ho’s punishment or even shield him from the full extent of justice.

Fate gave her that disease, and it was In-ho’s own decision to take bribes. You and I are not responsible for what happened to him! He simply paid for what he had done.— Jun-ho

As Gi-hun and In-ho develop a rapport throughout season 2, Jun-ho bears the weight of their shared history and the knowledge of In-ho’s impacts on the lives of many. While he grapples with his brother’s choices, Jun-ho’s priority will ultimately be to determine the best approach to dismantle the Games, possibly desiring a heartfelt discussion with In-ho to fathom his motivations.

In stark contrast, Gi-hun may be less inclined to lend his brother a sympathetic ear, especially given the toll the Games have taken on his own life and the loss of friends.Squid Game remains available for streaming on Netflix.

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