9 Squid Game Characters and Their Hogwarts Houses

A Cross-Universe Sorting

The worlds of Squid Game and Harry Potter collide in this intriguing exploration of character archetypes. Despite their vastly different settings, the personalities and motivations of characters from both stories share surprising similarities.

By examining the traits and actions of Squid Game's main characters, we can draw parallels to the four Hogwarts houses and gain new insights into their roles within the deadly competition. This analysis sheds light on how different personalities approach high-stakes situations, whether in a magical school or a twisted survival game.

1) Seong Gi-hun - Gryffindor

Seong Gi-hun, the main protagonist of Squid Game, embodies the qualities of a true Gryffindor. His bravery and willingness to stand up for others shine throughout the series.

Despite facing dire circumstances, Gi-hun consistently demonstrates courage. He risks his own safety to help fellow contestants, even when it jeopardizes his chances of winning the prize money.

Gi-hun's strong moral compass aligns with Gryffindor values. He refuses to compromise his principles, even in life-or-death situations. This unwavering commitment to doing what's right sets him apart from many other players.

His loyalty to friends and family is another hallmark Gryffindor trait. Gi-hun's devotion to his mother and daughter motivates his actions throughout the game.

Like many Gryffindors, Gi-hun can be impulsive at times. This sometimes leads him into trouble, but also allows him to make split-second decisions that save lives.

Gi-hun's determination to uncover the truth behind the Squid Game organizers further cements his place in Gryffindor. He bravely confronts those responsible, demanding answers and justice.

2) Cho Sang-woo - Ravenclaw

Cho Sang-woo embodies the key traits of Ravenclaw House. His intelligence and academic achievements are evident from his graduation from the prestigious Seoul National University.

Sang-woo's analytical mind and strategic thinking shine throughout the Squid Game. He quickly grasps the rules and mechanics of each challenge, using his intellect to navigate the deadly contests.

His problem-solving skills are particularly apparent in the honeycomb game. Sang-woo deduces the best approach and discreetly helps his teammates, demonstrating both wit and resourcefulness.

As a successful investment banker before the games, Sang-woo showcased his Ravenclaw qualities in his professional life as well. His ability to make calculated decisions under pressure aligns with the house's emphasis on wisdom and mental acuity.

While Sang-woo's actions become morally questionable as the games progress, his choices stem from logical reasoning rather than pure ambition. This further reinforces his placement in Ravenclaw, where intellect often takes precedence over other considerations.

3) Kang Sae-byeok - Slytherin

Kang Sae-byeok, Player 067 in Squid Game, embodies key Slytherin traits. Her cunning and resourcefulness shine throughout the deadly competition.

As a North Korean defector, Sae-byeok developed a sharp survival instinct. This mindset aligns perfectly with Slytherin's self-preservation ethos.

Sae-byeok's guarded nature and reluctance to trust others reflect the house's tendency for skepticism. She carefully observes her surroundings and fellow players, always planning her next move.

Her determination to win the prize money for her family showcases Slytherin's ambitious nature. Sae-byeok remains focused on her goal, even in the face of extreme danger.

While not overtly ruthless, Sae-byeok demonstrates a willingness to do what's necessary to survive. This pragmatic approach is a hallmark of Slytherin house.

Her quick thinking and adaptability in high-pressure situations further cement her place among the cunning serpents. Sae-byeok's Slytherin qualities ultimately contribute to her success in the brutal game.

4) Oh Il-nam - Hufflepuff

Oh Il-nam, the elderly contestant in Squid Game, initially appears to embody Hufflepuff traits. He displays kindness and loyalty towards his fellow players, particularly Gi-hun.

Il-nam's friendly demeanor and willingness to help others align with Hufflepuff values. He often offers encouragement and support to his teammates during the games.

His apparent vulnerability due to his age and supposed dementia further reinforces the perception of him as a gentle, Hufflepuff-like character.

Il-nam's tendency to reminisce about his past and share stories with other players showcases a sentimental nature often associated with Hufflepuffs.

Throughout most of the series, Il-nam presents himself as a fair player who values honesty and hard work - qualities highly prized in Hufflepuff house.

However, the revelation of Il-nam's true identity at the end of the series complicates this Hufflepuff sorting. His actions as the game's creator suggest a more complex character than initially perceived.

5) Jang Deok-su - Slytherin

Jang Deok-su embodies the quintessential Slytherin traits of ambition, cunning, and self-preservation. As Player 101 in the Squid Game, he demonstrates a ruthless determination to win at any cost.

Deok-su's background as a gangster aligns with Slytherin's association with darker elements of society. He enters the game to escape massive gambling debts and threats from criminal accomplices, showcasing his resourcefulness in dire situations.

Throughout the competition, Deok-su consistently manipulates others to further his own goals. He initiates violence between games and uses intimidation tactics to maintain control over fellow players.

His aggressive and hostile behavior towards others reflects Slytherin's reputation for prioritizing personal gain over cooperation. Deok-su's actions are driven by a survival instinct and a desire for power, both hallmarks of Slytherin house.

While not all Slytherins are villainous, Deok-su's character arc exemplifies the house's potential for darker tendencies when unchecked ambition takes hold. His placement in Slytherin is a natural fit given his cunning nature and willingness to exploit others for personal advancement.

6) Kang Seong-tae (Ali) - Hufflepuff

Ali Abdul embodies the quintessential Hufflepuff traits of loyalty, kindness, and hard work. His unwavering dedication to helping others shines throughout the Squid Game.

In the first game, Ali risks his own life to save Gi-hun, demonstrating his selfless nature. This act of bravery aligns perfectly with Hufflepuff values of fairness and compassion.

Ali's trusting personality is evident in his interactions with Sang-woo. He believes in the goodness of others, even when it puts him at a disadvantage. This naivety, while exploited, showcases his pure heart.

His strong work ethic is apparent from his backstory as a migrant worker. Ali perseveres through difficult circumstances, always striving to support his family and do what's right.

Throughout the games, Ali consistently shows empathy for his fellow players. He forms genuine connections and offers support, reflecting the Hufflepuff trait of valuing friendship and community.

7) Han Mi-nyeo - Slytherin

Han Mi-nyeo, also known as Player 212 in Squid Game, embodies many Slytherin traits. Her cunning and resourcefulness are evident throughout the deadly competition.

Mi-nyeo consistently demonstrates a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive. She forms alliances strategically, using her charm and manipulation to gain advantages.

Her ambitious nature drives her to take risks and make bold moves. Mi-nyeo is not afraid to use her sexuality as a tool, engaging in a relationship with Jang Deok-su to improve her chances.

When betrayed, Mi-nyeo's Slytherin side truly emerges. She plots revenge against those who wronged her, showcasing her determination and ruthlessness.

Her quick thinking and adaptability allow her to navigate the games successfully. Mi-nyeo's survival instincts and self-preservation align perfectly with Slytherin values.

While not always likable, Mi-nyeo's character arc demonstrates the complexity of Slytherin traits. Her actions, though often controversial, stem from a deep-seated drive to succeed at any cost.

8) Ji-yeong - Gryffindor

Ji-yeong, Player 240 in Squid Game, embodies the core traits of a true Gryffindor. Her bravery shines through in her selfless actions during the game, particularly in her final moments.

Despite her traumatic past, Ji-yeong displays remarkable courage. She forms a genuine bond with Sae-Byeok, showing the Gryffindor quality of loyalty even in dire circumstances.

Ji-yeong's ultimate sacrifice exemplifies the house's values of chivalry and nobility. She chooses to give up her life so that Sae-Byeok can have a chance at survival, demonstrating incredible strength of character.

Her ability to face death with composure and make such a difficult decision speaks to the Gryffindor trait of nerve. Ji-yeong's actions throughout the game consistently align with the house's emphasis on doing what is right rather than what is easy.

9) Hwang Jun-ho - Gryffindor

Hwang Jun-ho, the determined police officer, embodies the core traits of a true Gryffindor. His unwavering courage shines through as he infiltrates the dangerous Squid Game to search for his missing brother.

Jun-ho's bravery is evident in his willingness to risk his life by going undercover as a guard. He maintains his composure even when faced with the horrifying reality of the deadly games.

The Gryffindor spirit of chivalry is reflected in Jun-ho's dedication to justice and his desire to expose the truth behind the illegal competition. He acts with integrity, refusing to compromise his values despite the perilous circumstances.

Jun-ho's resourcefulness and quick thinking allow him to navigate the treacherous environment of the game. These qualities align with the cleverness often associated with Gryffindor house members.

His unwavering determination to uncover the truth and potentially save lives, even at great personal risk, exemplifies the noble and selfless nature of a true Gryffindor. Jun-ho's actions throughout the series consistently demonstrate the house's core values of bravery, daring, and moral fortitude.

Character Parallels Between Squid Game and Hogwarts

The characters in Squid Game and the Harry Potter series share surprising similarities in their personalities and moral dilemmas. These parallels offer insights into how the individuals might be sorted into Hogwarts houses based on their actions and traits.

Personality Traits and Hogwarts Houses

Gi-hun, the protagonist of Squid Game, embodies Gryffindor traits with his bravery and loyalty. His willingness to help others, even at personal risk, aligns with Harry Potter's heroic nature.

Sang-woo's intelligence and ambition mirror Ravenclaw qualities. Like Hermione Granger, he uses his wit to navigate challenges, though his methods become increasingly questionable.

Il-nam's cunning and manipulation reflect Slytherin characteristics. His orchestration of the games parallels the scheming nature of characters like Draco Malfoy.

Ali's trustworthiness and hard-working nature align with Hufflepuff values. His loyalty to Sang-woo, despite being betrayed, echoes the unwavering friendship of characters like Cedric Diggory.

Moral Choices and Their Hogwarts Reflection

The moral decisions faced by Squid Game characters often mirror dilemmas encountered in the Harry Potter series. Gi-hun's choice to help others at the expense of his own progress reflects the selflessness often displayed by Gryffindor students.

Sang-woo's descent into ruthless tactics for survival parallels the internal struggle of characters like Severus Snape, who balance personal ambition with moral obligations.

The Front Man's role in maintaining the games, despite their cruel nature, echoes the complex motivations of characters like Barty Crouch Sr., who justified questionable actions in the name of order.

Sae-byeok's initial distrust evolving into camaraderie with other players mirrors the growth of inter-house relationships at Hogwarts, particularly during times of crisis.

Cultural Impact of Squid Game and Harry Potter

Squid Game and Harry Potter have both achieved massive global success, becoming cultural phenomena that transcend borders. Their impact extends far beyond entertainment, influencing fashion, language, and consumer products worldwide.

Global Appeal and Fan Base

Squid Game rapidly became Netflix's most-watched series ever, attracting viewers from over 142 million households in its first 28 days. This surpassed even the peak popularity of Game of Thrones. The show's striking visuals and universal themes resonated across cultures.

Harry Potter's fan base grew steadily over two decades, with the books selling over 500 million copies in 80 languages. The films grossed billions at the box office. Both franchises inspired passionate online communities and fan theories.

Squid Game's sudden rise contrasts with Harry Potter's long-term cultural saturation. Yet both demonstrate the power of compelling storytelling to captivate global audiences.

Franchise Branding and Merchandise

Squid Game's distinct aesthetic spawned countless Halloween costumes and DIY challenges. Green tracksuits and guard masks became instantly recognizable symbols. Netflix capitalized on this with official merchandise and real-life game experiences.

Harry Potter's merchandising empire is unparalleled. From wands to Butterbeer, fans can immerse themselves in the Wizarding World through countless products. Theme park attractions bring Hogwarts to life for millions of visitors annually.

Both franchises have expanded beyond their original mediums. Squid Game is set for a reality show adaptation, while Harry Potter continues with spin-off films and a stage play.