Netflix's hit series "Squid Game" recently released the official trailer for season 2.
Following the first part, part 2 will tell the story of Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae), who refused the opportunity to go to America after winning. He returns, participating in the game again to dig deeper into the mysteries surrounding this dangerous game.
The cast from season 1, including Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, Wi Ha Joon, and Gong Yoo, are back, along with newcomers Im Si Wan, Kang Ha Neul, Park Gyu Young, Lee Jin Wook, Park Sung Hoon, Yang Dong Geun, T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun), Noh Jae Won, Cho Yuri, Kang Ae Shim, and Won Ji An.
However, T.O.P's participation caused controversy, because the male singer was involved in a marijuana scandal in 2017. He also lost points due to a series of actions related to the group Big Bang.
Responding to these concerns, “Squid Game” director Hwang Dong Hyuk said, “I didn’t expect it to become such a controversy. It happened a long time ago and the verdict has been served. Many artists have come back from similar incidents, so I thought it might be the right time for him to return to work. However, seeing so much public interest made me realize that I might have misjudged.”
However, director Hwang expressed his support for T.O.P: “He showed strong commitment, and I personally supervised his audition.
He sent videos of his practices and showed effort and talent, even during the script reading.
The role he is taking on in Part 2 requires courage, and I felt he was the right choice. Although this decision caused a lot of controversy, I still went ahead, because we had spent time together.”
Regarding the rumor of casting actors based on personal relationships, the director denied: "I always pay special attention to casting actors who are truly suitable for their roles, and I do not cast actors based on friendship.
Even early in my career, I regret the only time I tried that approach. It's a principle I stick to, especially with a project like “Squid Game,” where I only cast actors I believe are right for the role.”
“Squid Game 2” is scheduled to be released on December 26, 2024, while part 3 is scheduled to be released in 2025.
