‘Squid Game’s Wi Ha-jun Would Love to Work with Christopher Nolan

Wi Ha-jun has had a journey through memorable supporting roles in Gyeongseong Creature and Little Women before landing his breakout role in Squid Game. In this hit series, he plays Jun-ho, the younger brother of In-ho, also known as the Front Man, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun.

In Season 2, we see Jun-ho recovering in the hospital after surviving a gunshot wound and a fall from a cliff in the first season. He soon crosses paths with Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, the game’s previous winner. This meeting sets Jun-ho on a new mission to uncover the location of another deadly game.

Wi discussed his experience playing Jun-ho across the two seasons with Deadline. He expressed how portraying a character over multiple seasons helped him grow as an actor. ‘It was my first time playing the same character for so long, and it taught me to love and deeply understand him,’ he said.

What Wi admires most about Jun-ho is his strong sense of justice, despite the emotional struggle with his brother. ‘Jun-ho isn’t perfect, but his willingness to risk his life for the truth and justice made me respect him. We need more people like him today,’ he shared.

Wi also has aspirations for Hollywood. Following in the footsteps of his co-stars Lee Byung-hun and Lee Jung-jae, he dreams of working with renowned directors like Christopher Nolan. ‘I really admire Christopher Nolan,’ Wi said, adding that he would love to showcase K-action in an action film under Nolan’s direction.

For the second season of Squid Game, Wi embraced the physical challenges of playing Jun-ho. His transformation included growing a beard and losing weight for his character’s storyline. He found the hospital scene, where Jun-ho wakes up beside his mother, particularly rewarding, despite its difficulty.

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk gave Wi essential advice to maintain ‘balance’ in Jun-ho’s emotional portrayal. Wi noted that even as Jun-ho faces personal struggles, he must stay focused on his mission. ‘The director’s guidance on balancing Jun-ho’s emotions really helped me with the role,’ Wi said.

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