When Thanos Squid Game appeared in Squid Game Season 2, audiences instantly recognized him as one of the most unpredictable and unforgettable contestants. With his bold purple hair, chaotic personality, and rebellious energy, Thanos Squid brought an explosive presence that fans and critics couldn’t ignore. Behind the character stood Choi Seung-hyun, also known as T.O.P of BigBang, whose personal journey of downfall and comeback mirrored the role he played. This mix of real-life controversy and fictional intensity turned Player 230 into a global talking point.
The Origins of Thanos in Squid Game
Thanos Squid Game is the nickname given to Player 230, Choi Su-bong, who was portrayed by T.O.P. The character was introduced as a washed-up rapper ruined by a crypto scam, losing billions of won before joining the deadly games in a desperate attempt to regain fortune. His flamboyant appearance was no accident. The show’s creator deliberately styled him with purple hair and colourful nails to echo Marvel’s infamous villain Thanos. The idea was to make him stand out as a larger-than-life figure in a grim competition.
The casting of T.O.P was controversial. He had faced public backlash in South Korea following a drug scandal, and many questioned whether he should be part of such a major Netflix project. However, the director defended the decision, saying the character’s flaws and brokenness fit perfectly with the actor’s journey. In a way, Thanos Squid was both a role and a reflection of real-life struggles.
The Performance That Stole the Show
From the moment Thanos Squid entered the arena, his energy was reckless and chaotic. He mocked other players, pushed boundaries during the games, and flaunted a sense of invincibility. In challenges like Red Light, Green Light, he was seen shoving others aside, taking pride in his disruptive behavior. He wasn’t a strategic player like Gi-hun or Sang-woo from Season 1. Instead, he was wild, unpredictable, and entertainingly dangerous.
The bond he briefly formed with Nam-gyu over shared resentment towards another contestant showed his ability to stir alliances while sowing chaos. However, his addiction and arrogance made him unreliable. This balance of comedy, menace, and tragedy made viewers keep their eyes glued to him whenever he appeared.
The Turning Point and Tragic Death
The height of Thanos Squid Game’s story came in a violent bathroom fight. After weeks of reckless behavior, his arrogance pushed another player, Myung-gi, over the edge. The brawl escalated until Myung-gi, cornered and terrified, stabbed Thanos Squid with a fork in self-defense. The sudden death shocked fans and left Myung-gi emotionally broken.
Although his time was short, the impact of his exit was lasting. His death shifted the mood of the games, forcing players to face the emotional consequences of violence. It also hinted at the darker psychological themes the series may explore in Season 3.
Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact
The introduction of Thanos Squid sparked a global conversation. International fans adored him, with many calling him their favorite newcomer of Season 2. Memes celebrating his purple hair and chaotic energy went viral, and discussions about his performance trended across platforms.
In South Korea, the reception was more complicated. While younger fans praised his acting, others criticized Netflix for casting T.O.P. after his drug scandal. Some broadcasters even blurred his image in local coverage. Yet, the controversy only fueled more attention, cementing his role as one of the most talked-about characters.
What made Thanos Squid Game so significant wasn’t just his screen time but the layered meaning he carried. He was a flamboyant entertainer, a chaotic villain, a tragic addict, and a symbol of redemption for T.O.P himself. This complexity ensured his place in Squid Game history.
Why Thanos Squid Game Matters?
The character left a mark far beyond his actual survival in the story. His look made him visually iconic, his actions pushed the narrative forward, and his death carried emotional weight. More importantly, the role became a platform for T.O.P to step back into the spotlight after years of silence. For some, he was a villain they loved to hate; for others, a fallen star finding redemption. Either way, Thanos Squid Game proved that even a brief appearance can dominate an entire season.
FAQs
Who is Thanos Squid Game?
He is Player 230 in Squid Game Season 2, played by T.O.P, also known as Choi Seung-hyun from BigBang. The character is a rapper ruined by a crypto scam who joins the deadly competition.
Why is he called Thanos?
He was nicknamed Thanos Squid because of his purple hair and flamboyant style, referencing Marvel’s Thanos. The look emphasized his chaotic and villain-like personality.
How did Thanos Squid die?
He died during a brutal bathroom fight when another contestant, Myung-gi, stabbed him with a fork in self-defense. The shocking death changed the direction of the story.
Why was casting T.O.P. controversial?
The decision stirred debate in South Korea due to T.O.P’s past drug scandal. While some criticized the casting, the director said his personal struggles gave authenticity to the role.
Why did fans love Thanos in Squid Game?
Fans were drawn to his chaotic energy, unique look, and unpredictable behavior. Even though he wasn’t the main character, his presence was powerful enough to make him one of the most memorable players of the season.
