5 Shocking Facts About 'Unnie And Young Mi' From Squid Game 2: The Viral Scene And Casting Controversy
The relationship between 'Unnie' (Cho Hyun-ju) and Kim Young-mi (Player 095) in Squid Game Season 2 has become the most discussed, debated, and heartbreaking element of the entire series as of December 22, 2025. This intense, short-lived bond encapsulates the brutal moral dilemmas at the core of the deadly competition, culminating in a viral scene that has been shared across social media platforms globally. The duo's dynamic, which hinges on the Korean honorific "Unnie" (older sister), resonated deeply with fans, making their tragic fate an immediate flashpoint for emotional discussion.
The global frenzy surrounding the two characters goes beyond their on-screen chemistry. The "Unnie and Young Mi" storyline has also ignited a major, fresh controversy regarding representation and casting in the world of K-Drama, specifically concerning the actor chosen to play the character Cho Hyun-ju. This article dives deep into the characters, the actors who portray them, the viral 'Behind the Door' scene, and the real-world debates that have made this pair the unexpected heart of Squid Game 2.
The Unnie and Young Mi Phenomenon: A Complete Profile
The characters of Cho Hyun-ju and Kim Young-mi are known by their player numbers, 120 and 095, respectively. Their profiles reveal a tragic depth, making their alliance one of the most compelling narratives in the second season of the Netflix smash hit, Squid Game. Their story is a masterclass in tension and emotional stakes.
Kim Young-mi (Player 095) - Portrayed by Kim Si-eun
- Character Name: Kim Young-mi (김영미)
- Player Number: 095
- Portrayed By: Kim Si-eun (김시은)
- Role in Series: A young, anxious, and highly emotional participant in the games. Young-mi is shown to be reliant on her team, particularly Cho Hyun-ju, whom she affectionately calls "Unnie."
- Key Scene: The 'Behind the Door' scene in Episode 5, where she is ultimately eliminated, is the defining moment of her character arc.
- Actress Biography (Kim Si-eun): Kim Si-eun is a rising South Korean actress who has also starred in K-dramas like Hope or Dope, If You Wish Upon Me, and the movie A Year-End Medley. Her performance as Young-mi has been praised for its raw vulnerability.
Cho Hyun-ju (Player 120) - The 'Unnie' - Portrayed by Park Sung-hoon
- Character Name: Cho Hyun-ju (조현주)
- Player Number: 120
- Portrayed By: Park Sung-hoon (박성훈)
- Role in Series: Player 120 is the leader of her own small group and a highly skilled, resourceful participant. Crucially, Cho Hyun-ju is written as a transgender woman, a significant point of representation in the series.
- The 'Unnie' Term: Young-mi refers to Cho Hyun-ju as "Unnie" (언니), an affectionate Korean term used by a younger female to address an older female. This term highlights the deep, sisterly bond they form amidst the chaos.
- Actor Biography (Park Sung-hoon): Park Sung-hoon is a well-established cisgender South Korean actor known for major roles in hit dramas like The Glory and The Day of the Kidnapping. His casting as a transgender woman has been the subject of significant controversy.
The Heartbreaking 'Behind the Door' Scene That Broke the Internet
The emotional climax of the "Unnie and Young Mi" arc occurs during the elimination round in Episode 5, often dubbed the "Behind the Door" scene. This moment is considered by many viewers to be one of the most devastating and memorable in Squid Game history, rivaling the impact of the Marbles Game from Season 1.
The scene involves a cruel twist where the two characters, who have formed a genuine, protective bond, are forced to separate. Young-mi is left on one side of a door, facing imminent death, while Cho Hyun-ju is on the other.
As the door closes, the two share a tearful, heartfelt moment, looking at each other through the slot. The poignancy is amplified by the dialogue, particularly Young-mi's final, desperate pleas and her affectionate use of the term "Unnie" to the person she considered her dearest friend and protector.
The scene’s viral nature stems from its raw depiction of human connection in the face of absolute despair. The quiet resignation, confusion, and acceptance of their fate, contrasted with the affectionate final words, created a powerful emotional gut-punch for the audience.
The Cho Hyun-ju Casting Controversy: Representation Debate
While the on-screen relationship between Unnie and Young Mi garnered universal praise, the casting choice for the character Cho Hyun-ju (Player 120) sparked a significant global debate about LGBTQ+ representation in Korean media. This is one of the most current and relevant news points surrounding the character.
Cisgender Actor in a Transgender Role
Cho Hyun-ju is a transgender woman character, a fact that was widely publicized before the season's release. However, the role was given to the cisgender male actor, Park Sung-hoon. This decision immediately drew criticism from international fans and media, who argued that it was a missed opportunity to cast a transgender actress and a perpetuation of a problematic industry trend.
The Creator's Rationale
Series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk addressed the controversy directly, explaining the difficulty in casting. He stated that finding a trans female actor for the demanding role was challenging. He defended the choice, noting that Park Sung-hoon's performance was necessary to convey the character's complex emotional depth and narrative importance.
Park Sung-hoon’s Perspective
Park Sung-hoon himself has spoken about the challenge and sensitivity of playing a transgender woman. He acknowledged the concerns from the community and expressed his commitment to portraying Cho Hyun-ju with respect and sincerity, focusing on the character's humanity and struggles within the game rather than just her gender identity.
This controversy remains a key talking point, highlighting the ongoing global conversation about authentic representation, especially for marginalized communities, in high-profile media like Squid Game.
The Legacy of Unnie and Young Mi in Pop Culture
The impact of Unnie and Young Mi extends far beyond the emotional scene itself. Their relationship has become a cultural shorthand for tragic, selfless friendship.
Viral Memes and Tributes
The "Unnie" and "Young Mi" names, along with their player numbers (120 and 095), have dominated social media trends, generating countless fan edits, TikTok tributes, and viral memes. The scene’s final moments have been dubbed “You are beautiful Unnie,” based on Young-mi’s tearful words to Player 120.
The Nuance of 'Unnie'
The scene also brought a renewed focus on the nuances of the Korean language. The use of "Unnie" (older sister) and the parallel use of "Hyung" (older brother, used by men) by other characters like Ali, underscore the theme of surrogate family and deep attachment that forms quickly in high-stress environments.
The relationship between Cho Hyun-ju and Kim Young-mi is a powerful example of how Squid Game uses specific, culturally rich moments to deliver universal emotional impact. Despite the controversy surrounding the casting, the story of the two players remains a defining, heartbreaking highlight of Season 2, cementing their place as one of the most tragic duos in modern K-Drama history.
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