Viewers are buzzing over the new look of Squid Game's iconic robot, Younghee, in Season 2. Many have noticed subtle differences, from glowy skin to sharper features. But is she really "prettier" this time? Cinematographer Kim Ji Yong finally sheds light on the mystery!

In a roundtable interview held on January 16 in Jongno, Seoul, Squid Game Season 2’s Art Director Chae Kyung Sun, Music Director Jung Jae Il, and Cinematographer Kim Ji Yong shared insights into the highly discussed second season of the hit Netflix series.

After the release of Season 2, netizens couldn't help but notice that Younghee's face seemed a little different. Viewers pointed out changes like a brighter complexion, more defined eyebrows, a softer, oval-shaped face, and even the use of circle lenses.

The conversation quickly went viral, with fans debating if the robot's look was altered to make her appear more attractive.

Responding to the speculation, Art Director Chae Kyung Sun clarified, "Younghee maintained the same design as in Season 1," adding, "We kept it the same, so I don’t know what changed."

But Cinematographer Kim Ji Yong offered a different perspective, saying, "We didn’t intend to make her prettier." He explained that the changes people noticed were more about visual effects.

"There were moments where we wanted her to look strange. We adjusted the camera lens, distance, and angles to make Younghee appear like a doll at times, but also give her the feeling of a killing machine." This creative approach was likely the reason fans saw her appearance in a new light.

Kim Ji Yong also shared his excitement about joining the Squid Game team for Season 2, saying, "We’ve worked together since The Crucible, so we could be honest with each other and exchange opinions. We could say what was good and what wasn’t, which made the work enjoyable."

He stressed the importance of offering fresh experiences for fans: "Fans expect familiar scenes, but that alone isn’t enough. We need to add new elements."

For example, he pointed out how the camera angles in Season 2 differ from Season 1, specifically mentioning how Seong Gihun's (Lee Jung Jae) room is presented differently. The focus was on making familiar spaces feel new and exciting.

Season 2 of Squid Game, released on December 26, 2023, picks up with Gihun (Lee Jung Jae) returning for revenge, facing off against Front Man (Lee Byung Hun), and stepping into the deadly game once again.

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Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

Source: [1]