Player 120 Cho Hyun-ju: The Real MVP And Transgender Icon Of Squid Game Season 2 & 3

The number 120 in the world of *Squid Game* has taken on a dramatically new and profound meaning, moving far beyond a simple participant number in the deadly competition. As of December 15, 2025, the most talked-about figure from the series' highly anticipated return is Player 120, Cho Hyun-ju, a character whose complex arc and identity have sparked global conversations and solidified her status as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of *Squid Game* Season 2. Her journey through the deadly games is not just about survival; it is a powerful narrative on identity, resilience, and the human spirit under extreme pressure.

The introduction of Player 120, Cho Hyun-ju, marked a significant shift in the series' storytelling, bringing a much-needed layer of depth and modern social commentary to the brutal survival thriller. Her multifaceted personality and refusal to conform to stereotypes have made her one of the most developed and compelling characters to ever enter the arena, instantly captivating the audience and critics alike. Her actions, from calculated risks to moments of profound empathy, define the new era of the games.

Player 120 (Cho Hyun-ju) Biography and Profile: The New Face of the Games

Player 120, Cho Hyun-ju, is a pivotal character introduced in *Squid Game* Season 2, whose presence immediately drew attention for her unique background and strong personality. She quickly became a fan favorite, known for her sharp wit, strategic mind, and unwavering sense of justice within the morally compromised environment of the games. Her character arc is central to the narrative of the new seasons.

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• Player Number: 120
• Name: Cho Hyun-ju (조현주)
• Identity: Transgender Woman
• Seasons Featured: *Squid Game* Season 2 and Season 3
• Actor: Park Sung-hoon
• Key Role: Strategic player, moral compass, and a catalyst for social commentary on transgender representation.
• Defining Trait: Multifaceted, demonstrating a complex set of traits and skills that defy simple categorization.
• Notable Moments: Defending fellow players Jun-hee and Geum-ja; delivering an iconic slap; being a vocal participant in the player voting process.

The Impact of Cho Hyun-ju: A Catalyst for Representation

The character of Cho Hyun-ju, Player 120, was intentionally written to be a complex and fully realized individual, not just a token representation. Her story arc highlights the struggles and triumphs of a transgender person navigating a world designed to crush the vulnerable. The series' creator, Hwang Dong-hyuk, aimed for her to be a character you could genuinely encounter in a large group setting, normalizing her presence while showcasing her unique strength.

Hyun-ju’s storyline provided a powerful platform for important conversations around trans representation in media. She is portrayed as a "badass" and a strategic thinker, demonstrating loyalty, courage, and a fierce will to survive, which resonated deeply with viewers. Her actions, such as defending others and challenging the status quo, cemented her as a moral center in the amoral world of the games, earning her the title of "the real MVP of *Squid Game* Season 2."

Her inclusion is a testament to the show's commitment to reflecting a diverse society, even under the dystopian lens of the competition. The character’s popularity proves that audiences crave nuanced, well-written characters from all walks of life, especially those who challenge stereotypes and bring genuine emotional weight to the narrative. Her presence alone deepened the emotional stakes for the players and the audience.

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Controversy and Creative Choices: The Casting Debate

While Player 120’s character received widespread acclaim, her casting was not without controversy. The role of Cho Hyun-ju, a transgender woman, was played by cisgender actor Park Sung-hoon. This creative choice sparked a debate among fans and critics about the importance of casting transgender actors for transgender roles.

The show’s creator addressed the issue, explaining the thought process behind the decision. While the director’s explanation focused on the narrative and performance, the conversation highlighted a crucial ongoing discussion in the entertainment industry: authentic representation both on-screen and off-screen. Despite the casting debate, the performance brought a powerful, complex, and memorable character to life, ensuring Hyun-ju's impact transcended the controversy. Her emotional depth and compelling narrative arc were undeniable, contributing significantly to the success of *Squid Game* Season 2.

Player 120 in Squid Game Season 3: What We Know

The narrative surrounding Cho Hyun-ju did not conclude with the end of Season 2. Search results confirm that Player 120 is a character in both the second and third seasons of the Netflix drama. Her continued presence suggests an even more crucial role as the games intensify and the overarching conspiracy involving the VIPs and The Front Man unravels.

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In Season 3, Hyun-ju is shown to be involved in high-stakes actions, including defending fellow players and engaging in intense action sequences. One search result alludes to a dramatic "INSANE Fight Scene Knife" and an "Action Sequence," indicating her character transitions from a strategic survivor to a formidable fighter. The speculation surrounding her eventual fate, including a popular misconception about her death, further illustrates the deep investment fans have in her story. Her resilience and continued fight against the system are expected to be key thematic elements of the third season.

The Other Player 120: Clayton Gefre in *Squid Game: The Challenge*

To fully address the "120 Squid Game" entity, it is important to acknowledge the other prominent Player 120 from the reality competition spin-off, *Squid Game: The Challenge*. This Player 120 was Clayton Gefre, a Marketing and Proposal Coordinator from Meridian, Idaho, who described himself as a "professional storyteller." While the reality show version of the number 120 did not carry the same profound narrative weight as Cho Hyun-ju, his participation in the real-life challenges, from "Red Light, Green Light" to the intense dormitory dynamics, provided a tangible, non-fictional dimension to the number.

The contrast between the two Player 120s—one a fictional, deeply symbolic figure sparking social change, and the other a real-life competitor vying for a massive cash prize—highlights the expansive universe of the *Squid Game* franchise. Both characters, in their respective formats, contributed to the show's global phenomenon, proving that even a three-digit number can become a memorable and critical part of a massive cultural moment.

Player 120, Cho Hyun-ju, is more than just a participant; she is a mirror reflecting the complexities of modern identity, a symbol of resistance against overwhelming odds, and a strategic powerhouse. Her legacy in the *Squid Game* universe is secure, not just for her survival instincts but for the important conversations she ignited, making her a truly iconic figure in contemporary television.