10 times K-pop icons played Younghee and other Squid Game characters to perfection, ranked

By now, most of the world knows how Squid Game is a cultural phenomenon. The larger-than-life Netflix series took the world by storm in 2021. Since then, the imagery from the show and a lot of its elements have been explored. From cosplays, to people in real life wanting to play Gonggi; from the eerie Younghee doll, to the enigmatic masked guards in red (well, actually pink) jumpsuits, the show's distinctive visual features became instantly recognizable symbols around the world.

Fun fact: Those iconic Squid Game guard uniforms are actually pink, not red! This was officially confirmed in season 2 when Player 196 gushes about loving the pink color of the guards' outfits. It's one of those details that surprised even die-hard fans of the show.

And K-pop stars, renowned for their talent in turning any idea into good (and even awesome) entertainment, would be the perfect choice to adopt and turn up a notch on these unforgettable aspects, right?

These K-pop idols did more than just wear costumes. They brought the most memorable characters from the series to life. One of these cosplays was very iconic, leading to countless fan theories (Does V of BTS ring a bell?).

In amazing moments that brought together K-pop and Squid Game, there were not one or two, but several K-pop idols who added their own spin to the deadly game's style, which ranged from interpretations of high fashion to humorous parodies.

Now, let's reminisce about the top ten most captivating K-pop x Squid Game moments. All set to go? The event can now commence.

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10. A Deadly sweet detail — Donghyun (Golden Child)

With a clever (and cute) twist, the iconic umbrella emblem from the dalgona challenge painted on his cheek, Donghyun made his cosplsy as a Squid Game guard stand out among many. This little touch drew inspiration from one of the most terrifying games on the show (and the most difficult option) and gave the scary guard look, a lighthearted K-pop edge. The dalgona challenge was one of the most intense moments in Squid Game Season 1. Donghyun expertly juxtaposed the somberness of the guard uniform with the carefree flourish of the dalgona emblem, giving his outfit its unique charm. Both, fans and fashion viewers lauded his innovative take on a such a popular trend, showcasing his talent for personalizing it.

9. Aespa's forming guards

For Aespa, the Squid Game guard concept was more than simply a costume. The girl group turned it into a full-blown performance act, whose captivating visuals expertly conveyed the show's foreboding atmosphere. At the same time, the group's forceful performance style was shaped by their appearance in flawlessly coordinated red (or pink?) jumpsuits and black masks in their Dance Practice video. Really savage!

Their flawless choreography, which included elements of the guard aesthetic, took the idea to a whole new level.

Their mesmerizing synchronization in the renowned red costumes proved that even the most terrifying appearances can be transformed into something visually captivating. Their ability to keep their intense activity levels while paying tribute to the series was lauded by fans, who helped the practice video go viral. And this one below is a bonus! Do it great one time only? No, think again.

8. Jaemin (NCT) - A mysterious figure with a mask

Fans at SM Entertainment's Halloween party began fantasizing about possible casting options as Jaemin fully embraced the role of a guard. His portrayal of the masked guard exemplified the ideal blend of mystique and menace, enhanced by his innate charisma and authoritative demeanor.

The emphasis on the character's authoritative attitude by Jaemin was the distinguishing feature of his rendition. Without uttering a word, his body language conveyed the guard's menacing presence. His svelte figure and crimson (or pink?) jumpsuit led admirers to believe he could effortlessly play the role of an actor in a possible Squid Game spin-off.

7. Super Junior's Shindong - A marvelous mix of comedy and horror

The variety maestro of Super Junior will surely make Squid Game a hilarious comedy. From an outrageously funny take on the Red Light, Green Light game to an iconic scene in which he transformed into a walking tree, Shindong's spoof rendition had it all. His dedication to combining horror and humor demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the top entertainers in K-pop.

The brilliance of Shindong's performance resided in his ability to subtly insert comedy into the act while keeping the tension high. Fans may enjoy the original series' intensity while laughing at his meticulous recreation of specific episodes and his impeccable comic timing. It proved that a little comedy can turn even the most serious subjects into enjoyable experiences.

6. Aespa Winter - A mix of the gothic and the chic

SM's Halloween party was a style revolution thanks to Winter's take on Younghee. While keeping the iconic creepiness of the killer doll, she elevated it to the level of a high fashion moment with the addition of delicate pearl embellishments and sophisticated accessories. Only an Aespa member could pull off the breathtaking combination of gore and high fashion.

The way Winter elevated the look with refined touches, while retaining Younghee's eerie vibe was what made her rendition particularly remarkable. The distinctive rendition she produced by paying close attention to both the character's essence and fashion-forward components was talked about in fashion magazines and by admirers everywhere. It demonstrated that even the most horrific figures can become fashion icons with the correct perspective.

5. Dreamcatcher's Siyeon — Playing the game live

If you want your Squid Game costume transformed into a fully realized theatrical production, you should hire a Dreamcatcher member. Wearing her costume during a live performance wasn't merely a fashion choice—it was a profound artistic declaration made by Siyeon. She made a lasting impression onstage by subtly blending the show's gloomy elements with Dreamcatcher's preexisting gothic motif.

The gloomy theme that Dreamcatcher is known for was amplified by her performance in the costume. Her multi-layered performance, which included both, her strong vocals and the symbolic weight of the Squid Game clothing, demonstrated why Dreamcatcher is renowned for their distinctive theatrical productions. Their admirers remarked on how well the outfit complemented their performance style, demonstrating that some ideas are destined to be together.

4. Bang Chan - Stray Kids — Chic and astute

An already iconic design was given even more depth by Bang Chan, who elevated the player concept by using the Stray Kids' debut date (325) as his player number. His meticulous attention to detail is on full display here, as he elevated an otherwise plain outfit into a fitting tribute to his group's adventure.

Bang Chan's rendition was brilliant because he successfully linked the costume to the Stray Kids' plot while keeping it relevant to Squid Game. He achieved the ideal combination of personal significance and pop culture allusion by selecting a number important to his band's history, and the result was an anthem that touched people to their core. It demonstrated how thoughtfully selected elements, no matter how little, can make a big impact.

3. PSY – The ultimate entertainer?

Leave it to PSY to turn Squid Game's scariest character into comedy gold. During a "That That" performance (song he released with and produced by SUGA of BTS), PSY's video of this rendition as Younghee went viral, complete with orange and yellow dress and pigtails. Only PSY could make K-pop's most feared doll become the life of the party, proving once again why he's entertainment royalty.

[Hesitating, but finally bringing this out ☺️

Younghee almost made a special appearance in That That ☺️

Releasing this one from the deleted scenes ☺️

THANK GOD 😂😂😂 #싸희***

*** This hashtag stands for 'psyhee' in Korean]

These behind-the-scenes footage left fans craving more, with many dreaming up what could have been: imagine a full "That That" music video with PSY as Younghee and SUGA as the mysterious Front Man! Now that would have been a legendary K-pop meets Squid Game crossover.

2. Jin — Fun and iconic (BTS)

The way Jin looked like Younghee during Permission to Dance On Stage became a classic right away. He proved he deserves the moniker of "Worldwide Handsome" with his charming portrayal of the role, which included immaculately styled pigtails and striking the right poses. A scene that captured the impact and charm of BTS was created by his skillful blending of fear and humor.

Jin's portrayal of the doll's eerie traits was spot-on, and he managed to keep his distinctively fun demeanor intact throughout the performance. His versatility as a performer and his ability to shift between endearing and terrifying looks left the crowd in fits of laughter and shivers.

1. V of BTS — Too handsome to wear a mask

The most memorable part of V's performance was his guard costume, which caused quite a stir online. Even though his appearance in the red jumpsuit piqued the interest of his followers, it was his shocking mask removal that truly set him apart and made him a worldwide sensation. While paying due respect to the series, the scene aptly demonstrated why V is considered one of the most gorgeous guys in the world.

What really made this moment memorable, though, was the fact that it prompted real discussion about V's possible appearance in Season 2 of Squid Game. Netflix's popular tweet expressing V's admiration for his mask-free appearance aptly encapsulated the feeling. Images of him alongside main actor Lee Jung-jae and other behind-the-scenes photos only served to fuel these ideas, leading to an overwhelming amount of enthusiasm among K-pop and K-drama fans on social media.

Bonus: A Revolution in art by J-Hope & KAWS

The innovative mix of street art, high fashion, and pop culture was exemplified by J-Hope's December 2024 collaboration with KAWS and Netflix, which took Squid Game fashion to new levels. The collection captivated fans and reviewers alike with its artistic installations and designer pieces inspired by Younghee, turning the show's grim themes into wearable art.

SUGA — That nod ARMY noticed, right?

"Slight" nod here from SUGA of BTS to Squid Game. The MV for Haegeum. In this song, Min Yoongi, using his Agust D persona, criticizes—just like Squid Game—capitalims and social hypocrisy.

What comes next?

The influence of these K-pop sensations' takes on Squid Game roles extends far beyond that of simple costume drama. Their work exemplifies the potential of artistic expression in reshaping and reinterpreting significant cultural processes. Memorable moments will be remembered long after the games end, thanks to the idols' unique spins on the series' iconic components, which helped bridge the gap between K-pop and K-drama.

The synergy between K-pop and this worldwide phenomenon is clearly far from gone, as new collaborations like J-Hope's emerge and new seasons of Squid Game stimulate fresh interpretations. These performers have shown that the most interesting games in show business are the ones that don't follow any rules at all.