Key Takeaways
- Netflix’s Squid Game Season 2 introduces a new character, Kang No-Eul (Guard 011), who shares similarities with Season 1’s beloved character Kang Sae-Byeok as both are North Korean defectors.
- While both characters share the surname Kang and similar experiences as defectors, their timelines differ significantly, with No-Eul’s defection occurring years before Sae-Byeok’s.
- Fan theories about a potential sister or sister-in-law relationship between the characters are complicated by several factors, including No-Eul’s earlier defection timeline and the possibility that she acquired the Kang surname through marriage.
Netflix’s “Squid Game” captivated audiences with its intense plot, complex characters, and shocking twists.
Among the most beloved characters was Kang Sae-Byeok, aka Player 067, a North Korean defector whose tragic backstory and stoic demeanor struck a chord with viewers.
While Sae-Byeok met a heartbreaking end in the first season, new developments and theories suggest that her story might not be entirely over.
With the introduction of new characters in Season 2 and hints from the show’s creator, fans are speculating about a possible connection between Sae-Byeok and a mysterious new character, Kang No-Eul.
Who Is Kang No-Eul?
In the second season, viewers are introduced to Kang No-Eul, also known as Guard 011, a character who brings a fresh perspective to the show by offering a glimpse into the lives of the masked guards.
No-Eul’s backstory reveals that she is also a North Korean defector, having fled seven years ago after killing her superior officer.
Unlike Sae-Byeok, No-Eul’s escape was fraught with personal sacrifices, including leaving behind her infant daughter.
Interestingly, both women share the same surname, Kang, and similar experiences as defectors.
This has led to speculation that they might be connected, possibly as sisters or in-laws.
While no direct connection is confirmed, their overlapping histories and shared struggles hint at a deeper relationship that could be explored in future seasons.
Could Sae-Byeok And No-Eul Be Sisters?
The idea of Sae-Byeok and No-Eul being sisters is compelling for several reasons.
Both characters have endured harrowing journeys to escape North Korea and have fought to protect their loved ones.
Sae-Byeok’s backstory reveals that she is the second of three children, with her older brother having died from a plague.
However, there are complications with this theory.
No-Eul’s defection occurred years before Sae-Byeok’s, and her marital status could mean that she acquired the surname Kang through her husband.
Guard 011
byu/gyuyangi insquidgame
This would make her Sae-Byeok’s sister-in-law rather than her biological sister.
Furthermore, Sae-Byeok never mentioned having a sister during her time in the games.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Kang Sae-byeok’s name carries symbolic meaning in Korean, translating to “dawn” – a significance echoed by the song “Dawn” that plays during her death scene.
- Given Jung Ho-yeon’s height of 5’9″, her character Sae-byeok stands notably taller than most other women in the series.
- A distinctive scar on Sae-byeok’s neck becomes a key identifying mark, helping Gi-hun realize she’s the same person who previously stole his gambling winnings.
