Who Is Player 001 in Squid Game Season 2?
In Season 1, Player 001, Oh Il-nam, fooled everyone, including Gi-hun. Posing as a helpless old man drowning in debt, he earned the trust and sympathy of both the characters and viewers. His sacrifice during the Marbles game seemed genuine, but the shocking finale revealed the truth: Oh Il-nam was the mastermind behind the deadly competition, playing for one last thrill before his brain tumor claimed his life.
As the first season concluded, Oh Il-nam’s death left Gi-hun seething with anger, setting the stage for his return to the games in Season 2. But this time, Player 001 is a completely different figure—and one that holds even more significance.
The New Player 001
In Squid Game Season 2, the Front Man takes the role of Player 001, secretly joining the competition alongside Gi-hun. This twist is a bombshell, especially given Gi-hun’s determination to find and confront the Front Man, who also happens to be the brother of Detective Hwang Jun-ho.
The big reveal comes at the end of Episode 3, when the players vote on whether to continue the games after the traumatic events of Red Light, Green Light. It’s Player 001’s vote that tips the scales, unsurprisingly opting to keep the games going.
As the season progresses, Player 001 introduces himself to Gi-hun as Oh Young-il, though his real name is Hwang In-ho. His intentions remain murky, and every interaction is layered with tension.
The Front Man’s Role
Hwang In-ho isn’t just any contestant—he’s at the top of the Squid Game hierarchy, taking over after Oh Il-nam’s death. A former participant and winner of the 28th edition of the games, he’s not only the manager of the guards but a central figure pulling the strings behind the scenes.
If you’re still working through the season, I won’t spoil what happens beyond Episode 3. But rest assured, the Front Man’s presence is pivotal, keeping viewers on edge with his enigmatic motivations and chilling control over the games.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our Squid Game Season 2 ending explained, learn what’s ahead for Season 3, and read about the season’s most shocking moments—including a game that will have you yelling at your screen
