Fixing Squid Game's Biggest Character Mistake: How Season 2's Disappointing Update Can Redeem It

Summary

Squid Game season 2 is missing a beloved character, Sae-byeok, which is a disappointment as her performance was a highlight of season 1.

Sae-byeok's death served a crucial role in advancing the plot, yet her character can still make appearances through flashbacks to further explore her narrative and add depth.

The recent cast update for Squid Game season 2 may have disappointed fans, but the upcoming episodes of Netflix's dark K-drama have an opportunity to rectify season 1's major character mistake. Squid Game, a gripping series about a deadly competition for a massive cash prize, received immense success upon its release in 2021. Following the journey of Seong Gi-hun as he competes in the eponymous Squid Games alongside 455 other players also striving to escape poverty, the show delves into the contestants' personalities and backgrounds, intensifying the emotional impact as they meet their demise one by one.

Jung Ho-yeon Isn't In Squid Game Season 2's Confirmed Cast

: As fans eagerly await the release date for Squid Game season 2, Netflix has remained tight-lipped about the official announcement. However, viewers can anticipate an exciting continuation of the storyline, as Gi-hun embarks on a mission to dismantle the enigmatic organization behind the Squid Games. Despite revealing various updates regarding the cast and characters for the second season, the disappointing cast list indicates that one of the series' standout players will not be returning.

Jung Ho-yeon was noticeably absent from the list of new and returning cast members announced by Netflix for Squid Game season 2. In the first season, Ho-yeon portrayed the character Kang Sae-byeok, a reserved woman who becomes one of the finalists in the Squid Game. Throughout the competition, Sae-byeok successfully completes all the games, but her journey comes to a tragic end during the fifth game. Despite making it across the glass platforms, she is caught up in the subsequent explosion. The shards of glass piercing her body prove fatal, abruptly extinguishing her chances of winning the competition.

Why Sae-byeok Shouldn't Have Died In Squid Game Season 1

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The death of Sae-byeok in season 1 of Squid Game is a disappointing turn of events, although it is necessary for the overall plot progression. The initial events lead up to a final showdown between Gi-hun and his friend Sang-woo, causing Gi-hun to question everything that has transpired. This pivotal moment drives him towards his mission to expose the individuals responsible for the games in season 2 of Squid Game. Undeniably, Sae-byeok's demise is essential for the ultimate confrontation to occur and propel the story forward. Even if she had survived beyond the fifth game, it would have been impossible for both her and Gi-hun to escape the competition unscathed.

How Sae-byeok Can Still Appear In Squid Game Season 2

In spite of the disappointing nature of Sae-byeok's demise, Ho-yeon's extraordinary performance in season 1 of Squid Game is undeniably one of its highlights. Ho-yeon's portrayal of Sae-byeok is a testament to her exceptional talent, as she deftly brings the character's story to life. With her nuanced acting, she offers a gripping depiction that helps viewers comprehend why Sae-byeok willingly participates in the Squid Games. Considering Ho-yeon's impressive display in the first season, it would have been truly remarkable to witness more of her character. Unfortunately, her death effectively puts an end to any further character development in the upcoming episodes. Nevertheless, there exists a possibility for Ho-yeon to make a comeback in Squid Game season 2.

Despite Sae-byeok's demise being a significant event in Squid Game season 1, there is still a possibility for the character to make a comeback in season 2. Although she may no longer be able to appear in present-day scenes, the Netflix series can employ flashbacks to continue Sae-byeok's narrative. Season 1 only provides a glimpse into her past, offering enough information for viewers to grasp her identity and motivations. By delving deeper into her backstory, Sae-byeok's character can be further developed. Furthermore, Gi-hun's promise from season 1 serves as an opportunity to explore this possibility.

If Gi-hun checks in on Sae-byeok's brother, they can discuss her character. This would allow Squid Game to incorporate a few flashbacks to showcase Ho-yeon's impressive acting skills. While there will be numerous other characters to explore in season 2, it shouldn't heavily focus on those who have died. However, if the second season follows the format of the first with nine episodes, it should be able to include a few cameos. Many viewers would be happy to see the return of characters like Sae-byeok and even Sang-woo. Hopefully, Squid Game season 2 won't disappoint in that aspect.