Gong Yoo has always been a fan favorite, but his role in Squid Game 2 might be his most unforgettable performance yet.

The actor, known for his warm-hearted characters, takes a dark turn this time, showing a side of him no one expected. With his chilling portrayal of the "Ddakji Man", fans and critics alike are buzzing about his Emmy potential.

In the first episode of Squid Game 2, Gong Yoo takes center stage. His character, the infamous Ddakji Man, returns as the gatekeeper to the deadly games, challenging participants with the slap-or-cash game of ddakji. But this time, his role is much bigger—and much darker.

From handing out bread and lottery tickets to the homeless at Tapgol Park to orchestrating a nerve-wracking game of Russian roulette, Gong Yoo’s transformation into a cold, calculating villain is nothing short of breathtaking.

One haunting scene shows him crushing loaves of bread in front of desperate onlookers, mocking their choices and delivering a line that leaves chills: "You’re the ones who wasted this bread."

His unhinged nature reaches a peak during a Russian roulette game, where his wide, darting eyes and sinister smile steal the scene. Taunting his victims and reveling in their fear, Gong Yoo brings a level of madness that is both terrifying and captivating.

The tension only grows when the Ddakji Man faces Seong Gi Hun (played by Lee Jung Jae) in a final, high-stakes duel. Their showdown is a heart-pounding moment that cements Gong Yoo’s performance as one of the series’ highlights.

Known for his more virtuous or morally complex roles in the past, Gong Yoo completely embraces this evil character. His portrayal of the psychopathic Ddakji Man has viewers praising his versatility, with some even calling it Emmy-worthy.

Fans are raving about his performance, with one commenting, "I’ve never seen Gong Yoo like this before—it’s mind-blowing!" Another said, "Why did it take so long for him to play a villain? He’s incredible."

Whether he snags an Emmy or not, one thing is clear: Gong Yoo’s performance in Squid Game 2 is a masterpiece that will be talked about for years to come.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]