Netflix’s Squid Game has returned to the spotlight with the release of a character introduction video for its second season. Among the characters, Park Sung Hoon’s portrayal of a former special forces soldier turned transgender woman has drawn significant attention.
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On December 5th, Netflix introduced the main characters of Squid Game Season 2 through a video, along with posters and clips revealing their participant numbers. In the video, the actors shared their characters’ backstories and passion for the project. Park Sung Hoon’s character, Hyun Joo, stands out as a transgender woman who joins the deadly game to fund her gender-affirming surgery.
In an interview, Park described Hyun Joo as “a strong and resilient character with leadership qualities” who “breaks down barriers and offers an inspiring image.”
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>> Park Sung Hoon’s Shocking Transformation Takes the Spotlight in ‘Squid Game 2’ Teaser
However, the casting has sparked criticism on X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms. Some international viewers questioned, “Why wasn’t the role given to an actual transgender actor?” Others expressed frustration, calling the decision “infuriating.” Many argued that transgender roles should go to transgender actors to ensure authenticity and fair representation, pointing out that casting cisgender actors in such roles often turns their personal and often challenging life experiences into a product or spectacle for entertainment.
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Could they not cast an actual transgender woman… this gonna piss me off
— steven ☀️ (@arianaunext) December 4, 2024
could’ve gave it to a real trans person
— DEA. (@bodysnguts) December 4, 2024
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“Can’t they give this role to an actual trans woman”. These people don’t read or actually go anywhere else apart from America
It’s South Korea and they ain’t that flexible in this trans or lgbtv thingy. Where do you want to find a trans woman especially in the industry
— BIG AYO🔰 (@47kasz) December 5, 2024
why wouldn’t they give this role to an actual transwoman… :/
— 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝟑.𝟎 🫧 (@positionsmafiaa) December 4, 2024
The controversy has also prompted discussions in major Korean online communities, where reactions differ significantly. Many Korean netizens expressed surprise or confusion over the criticism, as casting in Korea tends to prioritize acting ability and production quality over social messaging or representation.
Transgender characters remain rare in Korean media, which influences how audiences perceive such roles. While debates about representation are becoming more common in Korea, they are still less prevalent than in Western countries. Korean viewers often focus on how characters serve the narrative rather than their broader societal implications. Some netizens attributed the controversy to cultural differences, emphasizing varying priorities in the creation and interpretation of fictional works.
As a global production, Squid Game Season 2 faces the challenge of navigating sensitivities across diverse cultural contexts in its casting and storytelling. The debate surrounding Park Sung Hoon’s character underscores the complexities of addressing diversity and inclusivity in content designed to resonate with a worldwide audience.
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