Park Sung Hoon on Squid Game 2: How Hyun-joo Changed His Acting Game
Park Sung Hoon discusses his role as Hyun-joo, a transgender special forces soldier in Squid Game 2. Learn about his approach, character inspiration, and acting journey.

Actor Park Sung Hoon, who gained global fame as the school bully Jeon Jae-joon in The Glory, has once again captured attention with his portrayal of Hyun-joo, a transgender special forces soldier, in Netflix's Squid Game 2. In a recent interview in Seoul, Sung Hoon shared his approach to this groundbreaking role and reflected on his acting journey.
A Unique Approach to Hyun-joo’s Character
Sung Hoon emphasized the importance of authenticity in portraying Hyun-joo. He avoided exaggerated gestures and dramatic vocal changes, instead focusing on the character’s life experiences and inner struggles. “I wanted to show her strength and decisiveness while also revealing a sense of anxiety beneath the surface,” he explained. This layered portrayal aims to transcend stereotypes often associated with transgender characters in dramas, integrating both feminine traits and the combat skills of a former special forces soldier.
The character design was a collaborative effort between Sung Hoon and the production team, led by director Hwang Dong-hyuk. Experimenting with different looks, including hairstyles and nail polish, they crafted Hyun-joo’s appearance to reflect both her identity and her past. Sung Hoon shared, “When I first saw myself in character, I thought I looked a lot like my sister. She didn’t know about the role but complimented me after watching the show.”
Inspiration and Influence
Hyun-joo’s character was inspired by the late Sergeant Byeon Hee-soo, South Korea’s first openly transgender soldier. While Sung Hoon drew from this influence, he avoided imitation, instead focusing on the challenges Hyun-joo faced in her life. “Director Hwang told me the character was inspired by Sergeant Byeon Hee-soo, but I wanted to build Hyun-joo’s story uniquely, emphasizing her strength and vulnerabilities,” he said.
Overcoming Controversies and Gaining Popularity
Despite past controversies, including an accidental social media post, Sung Hoon’s career has flourished with Squid Game 2. Fans have embraced his portrayal of Hyun-joo, affectionately calling him "Hyun-joo Unni," a nod to the character’s impact and Sung Hoon’s ability to bring depth to the role.
Reflecting on his journey, Sung Hoon acknowledged the lasting impression of his previous role in The Glory. “Jeon Jae-joon was a gift of a character, and I cherish that people still remember him. But with roles like Hyun-joo, I’m expanding my range and connecting with new audiences.”