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In an interview with Elle Korea, Gong Yoo discussed his evolving role in Squid Game season 2, set for release in December. Initially a lighthearted cameo idea between him and the director, his character as the "gatekeeper" was meant to be minor. The actor said:
"Squid Game was actually a cameo appearance that started as a joke with director Hwang Dong-hyuk, so it wasn't a very heavy project for me."
In the first season of Squid Game, Gong Yoo made a special cameo as the mysterious "Salesman." Gong Yoo's character serves as the "gatekeeper" to the game, introducing contestants to the competition and setting up the show's tense premise.
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Squid Game, a South Korean series released globally on Netflix on September 17, 2021, quickly gained acclaim and international popularity, leading to numerous awards and nominations. The show also became the first non-English and Korean series to receive four SAG Award nominations.
How did Gong Yoo end up in a cameo role in Squid Game?
In a recent interview with Elle Korea, Gong Yoo shared insights about his role in Squid Game season 2. When asked about his character as the "gatekeeper" to the game's world, he explained that his appearance originated from a lighthearted idea between him and the director during a private meeting. Initially, his role was meant to be a cameo, and he viewed Squid Game as a minor project.
"I didn't expect it to be this big. Somehow, I grew a little more in that worldview, but I still feel like it's someone else's job (laughs)," said Gong Yoo.
Reflecting on the show's immense success, Gong Yoo admitted he hadn't anticipated its global impact. Although his role has expanded, he still feels somewhat removed, as if it belongs to "someone else's story." The actor expressed gratitude for being part of such a beloved series and aims to contribute without detracting.
Squid Game season 2 is set to premiere in December
In a newly released teaser during Geeked Week 2024, Squid Game season 2 previewed the return of the ominous Front Man, played by Lee Byung-hun, and the deadly competition. The teaser shows the iconic soldiers returning in their red uniform, the Front Man overseeing the game, and Seong Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, reluctantly putting on his number 456 tracksuit.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, excited for the December 26, 2024, premiere, acknowledged the pressure to deliver a compelling continuation, promising it will be "worth the wait." Season 1 introduced the brutal, high-stakes game where players gamble their lives for a huge cash prize.
In season 2, Gi-hun will continue his quest, seeking answers about the organization's dark motives. Director Dong-hyuk shared that Gi-hun's actions after leaving the airport in the finale set the stage, while Lee Jung-jae noted that Gi-hun's resolve will take center stage, showcasing his determination.
According to the synopsis, three years after his season 1 win, Gi-hun abandons his plans to go to the US and re-enters the deadly game, motivated by a new mission. Returning cast members include Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo. Season 2 will also introduce newcomers like Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, and more, as a diverse ensemble of new competitors.
