Controversy Surrounds Casting Choices in Squid Game 2

During a press conference for the Netflix series Squid Game 2 (오징어 게임2) in August, director Hwang Dong-hyuk firmly denied allegations of 'network casting,' stating, "It's a huge misunderstanding and very unfair." He emphasized that casting decisions are based on the suitability of the actors rather than personal connections. However, following the release of Squid Game 2 on December 26, the casting of TOP (최승현) as the character Thanos has reignited discussions about favoritism in casting, particularly due to criticisms of his acting skills.

Hwang had previously mentioned that casting TOP was not an easy decision and urged audiences to judge the work once it was released. Unfortunately, the backlash has been severe, with many online communities flooded with comments questioning the rationale behind his casting. Major media outlets have echoed this sentiment, labeling it an "incomprehensible casting choice."

TOP portrays Thanos, a rapper who has hit rock bottom after investing in a cryptocurrency recommended by YouTuber Lee Myung-ki (임시완) and subsequently accumulating debt. While some initially understood the decision to cast him due to his impressive rap skills as a member of the group BIGBANG, concerns arose after a preview screening for critics and journalists on December 23. The character Thanos is not just a failed rapper but also a drug user, which raised eyebrows given TOP's past legal issues related to drug use.

Critics argue that showcasing an actor with a troubled past in a role that mirrors his real-life struggles crosses a line, and many viewers expressed disbelief that this casting choice was made. The concerns voiced during the preview screening were validated once the series aired.

The situation worsened as viewers found TOP's acting to be subpar, with issues in pronunciation and delivery, leading to awkward performances that disrupted the flow of the show. Many commented that every time TOP appeared on screen, it broke the immersion, with laughter erupting during his scenes at the preview.

Unlike minor characters, Thanos is a significant presence in Squid Game 2, rivaling the villain character Jang Deok-su (장덕수) from the first season. He has substantial screen time, second only to the main characters like Seong Gi-hun (이정재). Some viewers expressed frustration that more talented actors of the same age, such as Im Si-wan (임시완) and Kang Ha-neul (강하늘), were sidelined in favor of TOP.

Given these circumstances, it is difficult to dismiss claims of network casting, despite Hwang's denials. TOP's history includes a drug conviction in 2017 and a public statement that he would not return to the Korean entertainment scene after a social media dispute with fans. His casting in one of the most successful series in global history can only be explained by his connections with the main cast of Squid Game.

Some argue that TOP still has a strong international fanbase and may appeal to foreign viewers, similar to how Jung Ho-yeon (정호연) left a lasting impression despite her awkward performance for Korean audiences. However, considering the risks involved, many believe that TOP's casting was a poor choice for Squid Game 2. Netflix has reportedly avoided including him in any official events due to negative domestic sentiment.

A source in the domestic video content investment sector remarked that the Squid Game team must have been aware of TOP's lack of acting prowess and that the role did not necessitate a rapper-turned-actor, making the decision to cast him perplexing.