Squid Game 3: Jo Yu Ri reveals finals message of her character Player 222, wants to act in a Bollywood musical
At just 23, Jo Yu Ri is making a powerful impression in the star-studded ensemble of Squid Game Season 3. Known for her K-pop roots and rising solo career, Yu Ri steps into her most emotionally intense role yet as Jun Hee (Player 222), a mother-to-be navigating the brutality of the deadly games—and an unexpected reunion with her boyfriend, the bankrupt crypto scammer Myung Gi (played by Si Wan). Despite being new to scripted acting, Yu Ri's performance is already turning heads. She brings raw emotional depth to a character grappling with pregnancy, survival, and heartbreak, all within the series' violent dystopia.
In an exclusive interview with SCREEN from Seoul, Yu Ri opened up about the emotional and personal challenges of portraying Jun Hee. 'My biggest worry,' she shared, 'was whether those who've actually experienced pregnancy and childbirth would find my acting off or unconvincing. That thought stayed with me, so I did a lot of research.' Yu Ri's preparation was deeply rooted in empathy and realism. 'I asked my mom, a gynecologist, and a friend who had recently given birth. Their stories and advice helped me shape Jun Hee in a grounded and respectful way.'
While Squid Game has brought her international attention, Yu Ri is no stranger to fame. She first rose to stardom by placing third on the hit survival show Produce 48, earning her a spot in the now-disbanded girl group IZ*One. Since launching her solo career in 2021, she's also contributed soundtracks to popular K-dramas like See You in My 19th Life, My Lovely Liar, and Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born. Her acting debut came in 2022 in the web series Mimicus, where she played a young teen chasing her dreams. Post-Squid Game, she's felt a shift in the kind of recognition she receives.
'Earlier, my fanbase was mostly younger,' she notes. 'But after Squid Game, people across different generations started noticing me. That felt incredibly rewarding.' When asked about future aspirations, including work beyond Korea, Yu Ri is enthusiastic. 'If I ever get the chance to visit India, I'd love to be part of a musical film,' she says. 'I know how popular musicals are there, and it would be a dream to take part in one.'
As Jun Hee faces devastating choices in the final installment of Squid Game Season 3, what message would she want to leave behind for Myung Gi? Yu Ri pauses for a moment. 'She's not someone who says much. But I think she would have told him, 'Please protect our baby.' She says that line to Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae) in the show, but I feel like that message was truly meant for Myung Gi.'
Squid Game Season 3 premieres June 27 on Netflix.
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