The "original" and "emerging" acting idols have come together as ex-lovers with rich narratives. This is the story of Lim Si-wan and Jo Yu-ri.

The two actors starred as lovers in season 2 of the Netflix series 'Squid Game', released on the 26th. Lim Si-wan played Lee Myung-ki, a YouTuber running the cryptocurrency channel "Jin Gi Myeong-ki," while Jo Yu-ri portrayed Kim Joon-hee, who joined the deadly game after losing a large sum of money due to Myung-ki's misguided investment advice.

Notably, Jo Yu-ri's character, Joon-hee, survived the third stage of the game despite being pregnant with Lee Myung-ki's child, showcasing her strong will and determination.

This pairing is a unique and unprecedented combination. While Lim Si-wan and Jo Yu-ri play ex-lovers with complex narratives in 'Squid Game 2', their past as K-pop idols has become a hot topic among international viewers.

Many were surprised to learn that they were idols. On Twitter, a video of Lim Si-wan during his time as a member of ZE:A (Children of Empire) surfaced, accompanied by the caption: "Many people might not know that the Crypto Guy from 'Squid Game' was once a K-pop idol."

Fans responded with comments like: "There's no way someone could be this cute 333 times," "His face looked familiar," "Can we see more of this adorable version of him?" and "I remember this group! I want to rewatch 'Squid Game 2.'”

Lim Si-wan, known for his delicate, deer-like beauty during his idol days, was a visual standout in the group. His transformation into the pessimistic and selfish Lee Myung-ki in 'Squid Game 2' left global audiences astonished.

Jo Yu-ri also grabbed attention. A video of her singing Taylor Swift's "Cruel Summer" was shared online, with one viewer commenting: "The pregnant woman from 'Squid Game' is singing. Oh my God."

In response, K-pop fans explained that Jo Yu-ri is a former member of the girl group IZ*ONE, which was formed through the audition program 'Produce 48', and that she is also active as a solo artist.

Meanwhile, 'Squid Game' Season 2 depicts the intense battle between Ki-hoon (Lee Jung-jae), who returns seeking revenge, and the Frontman (Lee Byung-hun), as a new deadly game begins. The series has already topped the global Netflix Top 10 rankings across 93 countries, including the U.S., France, Mexico, the U.K., Hong Kong, and Turkey, signaling another worldwide phenomenon.

Season 3 is scheduled for release in 2025.