Jo Yu-ri Shines in 'Squid Game 3' and Prepares for Solo Comeback

The breakout star of Netflix's 'Squid Game 3' is undoubtedly Jo Yu-ri. Her portrayal of a mother's love as the character Jun-hee, the mother of the final winner, has left a lasting impression on global audiences from her debut performance. Following 'Squid Game 3,' her social media following has skyrocketed. Riding this wave of popularity, Jo Yu-ri is set to continue her career as a solo artist after two years.

Jo Yu-ri was cast as Jun-hee in both seasons 2 and 3 of 'Squid Game.' Jun-hee, a pregnant woman who failed in cryptocurrency investments, joins the game to earn money for child-rearing and ends up giving birth during the game. In season 3, she becomes a central character. During a game of tag, she gives birth with the help of other participants. Although she successfully delivers the baby, an injury sustained during the game becomes a critical weakness in the next challenge. Her sprained ankle makes it nearly impossible to cross a bridge in a jump rope game. Once her baby's survival is assured with the help of Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae), Jun-hee chooses to forfeit the game and sacrifices herself. In the final game, Seong Gi-hun's sacrifice ensures the baby's victory. Season 3 is heavily centered around Jun-hee, with some saying she had more screen time than the protagonist, Seong Gi-hun, until her character's death.

Interest in Jo Yu-ri, who played Jun-hee, is naturally high. Her global fan base is evident in her follower count. Before 'Squid Game,' she had 1.6 million followers, which increased to 2.28 million after season 2. Now, with season 3 released, her followers have surged to 7.53 million and continue to grow. Known as a member of the idol group IZ*ONE, Jo Yu-ri's debut as an actress in the global hit 'Squid Game' has quickly established her as 'Actress Jo Yu-ri' worldwide.

Jo Yu-ri auditioned four times to join 'Squid Game.' She shared, "I started with a video audition, then met with the assistant director once, and director Hwang Dong-hyuk twice, totaling four auditions." She added, "There were so many applicants for the first audition that it took about two months to wait for the second round. In total, it took about three months."

Despite the challenging process to land the role of Jun-hee and the focus on her character in season 3, opinions on Jo Yu-ri's performance are mixed among viewers. Some felt her expressions were too consistent, despite the character's potential for diverse portrayals as a single mom and failed investor. Jo Yu-ri responded, "I appreciate the feedback from those who watched the work with affection," and added, "I will use it as nourishment to show my growth."

Some positive reviews have boosted her confidence in her acting. Regarding praise for her eye acting, she said, "As an actress just starting out, I wasn't aware of my strengths. Many seniors, directors, and viewers have praised my eye acting. If asked what my weapon as an actress is, I would say 'my eyes.'" She expressed satisfaction, adding, "I haven't had time for acting lessons lately, but I took lessons during auditions and filming. Rather than thinking I need more lessons, I believe I should continue doing what I've been doing."

Thanks to the major project 'Squid Game 3,' Jo Yu-ri has had a smooth start as an actress. Building on this momentum, she is making a comeback as a singer after two years. She will release her mini-album 'Episode 25' on the 14th. The album is said to reflect Jo Yu-ri's musical and personal growth. She expressed gratitude to fans who waited for two years, saying, "I prepared it with the intention of repaying them," and added, "I incorporated a lot of my preferences and opinions."

The album's release was delayed due to slow preparations, but the global success of 'Squid Game 3' turned the delay into a blessing. Jo Yu-ri commented, "I'm glad I can release it at a time when I'm getting attention. I'm thinking positively with a lucky mindset."

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr