new Squid Game character left a lasting impression on the games with his humor, recklessness, and unexpected use of English—oftentimes to flirt with some of his fellow players.

In a featurette with Netflix K-Content, Choi revealed how he approached Thanos' English lines. At the team selection stage for the Six-Legged Race, Thanos attempts to win over Won Ji-an's Se-mi using his usual flirtatious technique, including English catchphrases like "No problem," which he delivers with a cheeky mispronunciation. Here's what he had to say:

This guy has never been to the States or taken English lessons. I was told his English pronunciation shouldn’t be too good.

For example, when he says, “No problem,” I intentionally mispronounced it and emphasized the L sound. I figured that sort of thing would be funny for foreign viewers, so I used my imagination to make the details stand out.

I personally really like this scene, because all the lines are hilarious, and it’s where Team Thanos is formed. So I always find myself laughing when I watch this scene.

What Thanos’ English Usage Means

It's A Perfect Parody Of K-Hip-Hop

Thanos’ use of English in season 2 is a comedic quirk for the rapper, but it also reflects the broader impact of K-pop. Integrating English phrases into songs is a hallmark of the genre, with many Korean rappers incorporating English at points to emphasize rhythm, punchlines, or cultural references. While the professional actor and rapper is relatively fluent in English, series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk instructed Choi to speak it poorly. Yet, by bringing this vernacular to Thanos’ dialogue, Squid Game cleverly ties his character to his backstory while poking fun at common tropes in K-hip-hop.

Choi’s mispronounced yet confident English lines amplify his role as a parody of a rapper archetype, doubling down on the humor and absurdity of his character. Hwang wanted Thanos to be a Squid Game player "fans worldwide could love," and his linguistic quirks play a key role in achieving that. By blending exaggerated elements of K-pop with universally recognizable humor, Thanos transcends cultural boundaries. His unrefined yet confident attempts at speaking English thus become a connection for international audiences, while his over-the-top personality remains distinctly rooted in the chaos of the games.

Our Take On Thanos’ Linguistic Antics

This Prankster Villain Stole The Show

Thanos may not have survived the games, but his unique personality made him an unforgettable part of Squid Game season 2. From his chaotic gameplay strategies to his unexpected English free-styling, he stood out as a comedic yet formidable character in a series known for its bleak tone. Whether you loved or hated Thanos for his arrogance or mischief, there’s no denying he brought a distinctive energy to Squid Game and left us wishing for more moments with the purple-haired villain.

Source: Netflix K-Content