Netflix’s Squid Game has captivated audiences worldwide with its intense survival games, shocking twists, and unforgettable characters. With Season 2 bringing fresh faces into the deadly contest, it’s time to rank the best characters from both seasons. From heroes to villains, tragic figures to cunning masterminds, these are the most compelling players in Squid Game history.
10. Jung Bae (Season 2)
Jung Bae is a relatable character, representing the everyman thrown into a nightmare. An old friend of Gi-hun, he enters the game with a mix of optimism and desperation. His internal struggle—wanting to escape but also craving financial freedom—makes him one of Season 2’s most engaging new characters.
9. Mi-nyeo (Season 1)
Cunning, unpredictable, and willing to do whatever it takes to survive, Han Mi-nyeo was one of the most entertaining contestants in Season 1. From her manipulative tactics to her explosive final act, she was a wildcard who kept everyone on their toes.
8. Geum-Ja (Season 2)
A mother who entered the games for her son’s sake, Geum-Ja initially seemed opportunistic but revealed a deeply emotional side. Her transformation from schemer to self-sacrificing parent made her one of the most poignant figures in Season 2.
7. Cho Sang-woo (Season 1)
Once a childhood friend of Gi-hun, Sang-woo turned into one of the most ruthless competitors in the first season. His betrayals and calculated decisions made him one of the series’ most compelling villains, culminating in a tragic yet fitting ending.
6. The Recruiter (Seasons 1 & 2)
Played by Gong Yoo, the Recruiter is the chilling face of the Squid Game operation. His brief yet impactful appearances in both seasons serve as a reminder of how the game preys on the desperate. His charisma and menace make him one of the franchise’s best antagonists.
5. No-Eul (Season 2)
No-Eul was a complex figure, initially appearing cold and detached but showing unexpected compassion. As a soldier rather than a contestant, she brought a fresh perspective on the game’s brutality, making her one of the standout new additions in Season 2.
4. Kang Sae-byeok (Season 1)
A North Korean defector fighting for her family, Sae-byeok was one of the most beloved characters in Squid Game. Her quiet strength, resourcefulness, and heartbreaking demise cemented her as one of the show’s most memorable figures.
3. Hyun-Ju (Season 2)
A standout from Season 2, Hyun-Ju’s journey was emotional and inspiring. A transgender woman seeking a better life, she was an invaluable player in the games. Her leadership and sacrifice made her a fan favorite.
2. Frontman (Seasons 1 & 2)
The enigmatic and ruthless Frontman, In-ho, played a pivotal role in both seasons. His backstory as a former winner turned enforcer added layers to his character, making him one of the most intriguing figures in the series.
1. Seong Gi-hun (Seasons 1 & 2)
The heart of Squid Game, Gi-hun is the ultimate underdog. His transformation from a struggling gambler to a determined hero seeking to dismantle the game makes him the most compelling character in the series. His return in Season 2, driven by a mission rather than money, adds even more depth to his arc.
