Meet Wi Ha‑Jun: The Heart‑Stealing Hero Who Keeps Squid Game Fans Hooked
When Squid Game burst onto Netflix in September 2021, it didn’t just set binge‑watch records—it shattered every social narrative out there. The show’s razor‑sharp look at inequality turned a global conversation into a fever dream. And at the heart of that chaos, standing out like a fresh face in a sea of masks, is Wi Ha‑Jun.
As Hwang Jun‑ho, the earnest cop who dove into the lethal playground to rescue his missing brother, Ha‑Jun’s mix of boy‑like charm and unwavering sense of justice snagged us right from the first episode. And if you finally got that spoiler‑warning moment where Jun‑ho is seduced into a ‘VIP’ trouble‑shooting showdown, you probably nodded along while mentally noting, “I’m keeping an eye on him for season 2.”
Why Wi Ha‑Jun Deserves a Standing Ovation
- 1. Youthful Sunshine – His genuinely boyish grin keeps that “fresh‑face” vibe alive, making every scene feel like a breath of fresh air.
- 2. Police‑Sharp Brain – Wi’s portrayal balances street‑smarts with a flash of brilliance that keeps viewers guessing what’s next.
- 3. Man of Principle – Even in a game that rewards ruthlessness, he sticks to his moral compass – a rare trait that resonates with anyone who cares about justice.
- 4. Unexpected Depth – Behind the goofiness lies a layered story of lost family ties that pulls at the heartstrings.
- 5. Fierce Intensity – When the stakes rack up, he throws down the gangster vibe, turning pulse‑racing moments into a spectacle of sheer determination.
- 6. The King of Scene-Drama – His performance in that “VIP” episode delivered a dramatic heartbeat that kept everyone on the edge of their seat.
- 7. Blink‑to‑The‑Future Star – The subtle hints of future missions promise a tantalizing journey for fans who crave more.
- 8. The Gamble of Lifestyle – His character’s personal journey is a thrilling “life twist” that sues the drama’s storyline.
- 9. A Winning Combo – A perfect blend of wholesomeness and grit that keeps viewers on the volley from the very first episode.
So, if you’re hoping we get a Season 2, or maybe a cameo whatever the global streaming powerhouses produce next, remember one thing: Wi Ha‑Jun isn’t just a character—they’re the glitch‑free epicenter of all the drama you love. Happy binge‑watching!
He grew up on a farm
From Abalone Farm to City Bite
Meet Ha‑Jun, the 30‑year‑old who grew up on a family abalone farm on the idyllic island of Soando in Jeollanam‑do. His birthday, August 5th, falls squarely in the Leo season—so you can expect both a bit of drama and a dash of confidence.
What Did He Really Eat Growing Up?
- Abalone? Apparently not a daily staple. Ha‑Jun admitted he didn’t chow down on the very sea‑food that made his family’s livelihood.
- Sashimi? Easy peasy on Soando, but he was surprised to learn that in Seoul people actually pay for it—like paying for something that’s just sitting on a plate in front of you.
On the Korean variety show Problem Child In The House, Ha‑Jun offered a glimpse into his island upbringing: “People in Seoul actually have to shell out cash for sashimi, but over here the fish is just… free!” It’s a light‑hearted reminder that what’s a luxury in one place can be a community staple in another.
Takeaway
If you ever catch a glimpse of Ha‑Jun on your favorite show, you’ll know his roots run deep in the sea and that he appreciates the simple pleasures. And hey, maybe next time you’re in Seoul, just grab a bowl of abundant sashimi—no extra charge required!
His childhood aspiration was to be an actor
From Hollywood Hopes to Real‑World Villains
Hey there! Ever meet someone who says, “I wish I could be a bad guy on screen,” and the universe actually gives them a chance? That’s Ben Ha‑jun, the Korean actor who’s turning his villain fantasies into real blockbuster roles.
Early Sparks & Dramatic Dreams
Back in 2018, during an interview on Arirang’s Showbiz Korea, Ha‑jun spilled the beans: “I wanted to act, and I was way more drawn to playing the villain.” Funny, right? He had a playground passion of playing the guy that makes everyone’s heart go bang‑boom.
From Classroom to Celluloid
Before he hit the big screen, he was studying theatre and film at Sungkyul University—an academic playground that prepared him for the roar‑roar of cinema. After that, his career sprinted from minuscule short films to starring in full‑length movies.
- 2012: First job— a short film called Peace in Them.
- 2018: Debut in the lead role on Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum—fear of the lights on!
- 2021: A chilling performance in Midnight, where he channeled a serial killer right into our living rooms.
Critics and the “New Actor” Buzz
Ha‑jun’s recent works have earned him several nominations for Best New Actor, thanks to:
- Gonjiam (the horror that had nights feeling cooler than a glacier)
- Something in the Rain (southern vibes mixed with heartfelt tuning)
- Romance Is a Bonus Book (fun, quirky, and, honestly, he nailed the heartbreak drama)
It’s not just a streak of roles; it’s a ripple of recognition that tells us this guy is sharpening his craft.
What’s Next?
Watch closely! If he can already stun us as the evil mastermind, imagine the future possibilities—maybe an indie superhero or a ‘villain of the year’ award. Ha‑jun’s trajectory tells us that ambition, education, and a splash of boldness can evolve a dream from page to applause.
He has worked alongside many big stars
Squid Game’s Glittering Cast: Meet the Faces That Pop
Dreaming of your own Faustian bargain? You’re in good company. Behind the catchy yet ominously slick marbles of Squid Game sits an all‑star ensemble that could have us all yelling, “Who’s that?”
Star‑Studded Names
- Kim Go‑eun – the moonlit queen who’s been turning heads since “Coin Locker Girl.”
- Park Bo‑gum – the “You still want me” type of actor, once stole hearts in “Coin Locker Girl.”
- Son Ye‑jin – the heart‑warming sweet soul from “Something in the Rain.”
- Jung Hae‑in – the guy who made us say “I need a hug” from “Something in the Rain.”
- Lee Na‑young – the gal who balances sarcasm and charm in “Romance Is a Bonus Book.”
- Lee Jong‑suk – the adorable victim of “Romance Is a Bonus Book.”
- Lee Jung‑jae – the “You’ll die in my clutches” genius you never knew you needed.
Ha‑jun (the newly‑famous hero with the side‑kick attitude) is actually managed by MSTeam Entertainment, which also steers the iconic Son Ye‑jin. Their careers may be separate, but hey, who needs continuity when both bring personality?
During the chaos of Squid Game, Ha‑jun heroically teamed up with the legendary Lee Byung‑hun—a big bro, big bro. He was giddy: “I knew beforehand that I’d be appearing as brothers with Lee Byung‑hun, so I was very excited. I was incredibly excited before I even met him.”
He went on to gush, “It was such an honour. Lee Byung‑hun is a senior whom I already really like. After acting with him, he’s obviously amazing. My heart would race just from his gaze and a single line. He took care of me in such a friendly manner on set and during meals, so I was really touched.”
With wonder, swagger, and a healthy dose of drama, the cast turns “Squid Game” into an unforgettable, heart‑pounding experience.
He fell for his Squid Game character
Ha‑Jun: The Squid Game Fan With a Fresh Perspective
Turning a Quick Script Scan Into a Spark
When the Squid Game script landed in his inbox, Ha‑Jun didn’t hesitate. Within seconds he said, “I skimmed the whole thing and I was instantly hooked.” The world‑shocking twists, the raw humanity, and the maze of every character—all wrapped into one dramatic masterpiece—got his eyes wide open.
Why Jun‑Ho Became His New Hero
- Immersive vibes: It was a narrative that felt alive and unapologetically intense.
- Underdog charm: Even though Jun‑Ho got limited screen time, the actor praised him for having “a story to tell” and for being the bridge that swept the viewers through the world.
- Authentic grit: The role demanded a balance between surviving the stakes and keeping the tension real.
From On‑Set to Real‑Life Reflections
During scenes where the actor had to chase an older sibling or haunt the claustrophobic corridors, Ha‑Jun focused on the raw breath between fear and resolve. He described Jun‑Ho’s demeanor as “honest, determined, and on a quest for justice.” That, to him, made the character a doorway rather than just another player.
Why the Bigger Picture Matters
“You see the drama leap from one stage to another,” Ha‑Jun mused. “Finding someone in the crowd is one thing—understanding the story in the shadows is another. That’s why I wanted to bring that depth to the audience.”
He left us with a smile, snorted a laugh, and highlighted how Squid Game isn’t just a thriller; it’s a reflection of human stories, all wrapped in a deadly reality. That’s his take, and it’s pretty damn captivating.
He is set to star opposite Lee Dong-wook and Han Ji-eun
“Bad and Crazy” Slashes Into OCN’s Calendar
Get ready for an October‑style thrill—though the drama actually hits screens in December 2021. The Korean title Bad and Crazy isn’t just a quirky tagline; it’s the moody promise of a story that flips conventional heroism on its head.
Meet the Cliché‑Breakers
- Soo‑yeol (played by Dong‑wook):
- High‑flying, eye‑for‑the‑money plugged into the police force.
- Suited, serviceable—yet his moral compass is more in flux than the Seoul traffic lights.
- He stops at nothing to catapult himself to the top, but will he sacrifice the very thing he swears to protect?
- K (played by Ha‑jun):
- Spiritual, supremely righteous—this guy could walk straight out of a comic‑book frenzy.
- Dreaming of “I’ll be the hero” but realistically feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders.
The Collision of Chaos and Idealism
When Soo‑yeol crosses paths with K, the plot flips into a loaded “life‑vs‑career” showdown. Picture one character trading ambition for ethics, the other balancing awe and clumsiness. Between blaring scandals, subtle manipulations, and the occasional righteous showdown, the drama delivers that punchy humor we crave—just enough to keep the viewer’s heart beating fast and sometimes slow dinkling at the corners of their cheekbones.
Why This Tale Matters
It’s a modern take on the “hero or villain” mentality. While Soo‑yeol is a silhouette of ambition, K pushes the moral envelope in ways that are as gripping as they are comic. By the end, you’ll be left wondering: who gets the medal? Who just owns the plot?
Brace yourself for October vibes, December drama, and a story that hits the sweet spot between shaky humor and compelling development—no code, no extra fluff, just a solid, human‑crafted narrative.
He loves exercising
Ha‑Jun’s Gym‑Freak Life Behind “Squid Game”
Did you know that Ha‑Jun isn’t just a charismatic Twitch‑swinging star? He’s also a bona‑fide fitness freak with a body that could win a Bodybuilding World Cup if he ever decided to go pro.
The Six‑Pack Legend
- Why the Abs? With a six‑pack that could double as a pizza slice, Ha‑Jun spends countless hours pumping iron.
- Workout Frequency – Five days a week, a regimen that would make a rabbit look lazy.
- Home Gym Hustle – When the pandemic pushed everyone indoors, he turned his living room into a Legion of Muscle training ground.
Future Goals & Philanthropy
During a recent Squid Game press conference, he was all about the future. “If I take home the ₩45.6 billion jackpot,” he said, “I’ll build a luxurious gym so grand it would make any celebrity blush. Plus, I’ll split the winnings with family and send a chunk to charity.”
Wrestling Buff
Ha‑Jun’s passions don’t stop at the gym. He loves wrestling, and rumor has it he’s ready to take a challenge from you. “Only if I can wrestle my way out of doing the dishes!”
So the next time you see Ha‑Jun flexing in a movie, remember it’s not just a gag – it’s the result of sweat, ambition, and a dash of swagger!
He can sing
He’s More Than Just a Face on the Screen!
When He Hits the Mic…
The star who mesmerized us on stage is also a singing sensation—yes, you heard that right! He can belt out tunes with a voice that’s as smooth as his acting.
OST Spotlight: “Maybe It’s Too Late for the Drama”
Want a quick stop‑over? Dive into the soundtrack of Matrimonial Chaos (2018), the show where he also wore his leading role hat. The track “Swoon” is a mellow yet powerful version of the show’s main musical theme.
- “Swoon” – Feel the romantic vibes.
- Versatile Vocalist – Moves from drama to drama & beyond.
- Beyond the Screen – He’s not just acting; he’s singing too.
He can dance too
Catching the Dance‑Legend in Action
A quick‑scan of Twitter fed a survival story that today’s digital wanderers had ears to the ground: a video surfaced of the Korean streamer Ha‑Jun doing the iconic Twice Cheer Up routine back in 2016.
Why the buzz?The clip didn’t come from a factory‑made video—it was a raw, unfiltered dance montage from a school performance. Netizens instantly flagged the “old‑school” flair in Ha‑Jun’s moves, linking them to the fresh‑ness of his current streaming persona.
How it Unfolded
Takeaway for Streaming Folks
Bottom line – Ha‑Jun’s 2016 school‑dance clip showcases how an apparently low‑key performance can become a cornerstone of a digital career. Your next clip might still be tomorrow’s viral highlight!
He is a doting uncle
Who’s the “Princess” in Ha‑Jun’s Instagram?
Rumor mill claims Ha‑Jun is currently flying solo—no celebrity love triangles or secret dates in the works. Yet when you scroll through his feed, you’ll often spot a charming little face brightening his posts. That adorable “princess” is none other than his niece, the daughter of his big sister.
Family Man Status
- Alone? Check.
- Modern day parenting? Definitely.
- Heart‑warming family moments? Cover.
It’s hard not to smile when you see the two of them sharing giggles over a goofy selfie or cooking up a storm together. Ha‑Jun’s candid snapshots give us a peek into a side of him that’s far from a one‑man show—he’s a comfortable, caring father figure in everyone’s eyes.
Why We’re Charcoal‑Lit Over This
There’s something genuinely endearing about a celebrity who can balance a J‑star career and a tender family connection. Whether he’s joking around or simply watching a school play, the little princess makes our hearts skip a beat. Handsome, caring, and dad‑friendly—now that’s a win.
Can’t get enough of Ha-jun? Here are other notable show he’s starred in
Ha‑Jun Kwon’s Must‑Watch Lineup After Squid Game
Finished Squid Game and still craving drama? Grab a cup of tea, settle into your couch, and let Ha‑Jun Kwon escort you through a whirlwind of movies and series you can binge while you wait for the next episode of Bad & Crazy. Below is a carefully curated list that showcases his diverse chops – from brutal thrillers to heart‑warming rom‑coms.
Movies that Pack a Punch
- Shark: The Beginning (2021) – The former MMA champ turned Korean cinema hero. Ha‑Jun plays Jung Do‑hyun, a former champion whose fitness training turns into a deadly showdown.
- Midnight (2021) – A psychological thriller to keep you on the edge. He stars as the cold‑hearted serial killer Do‑shik, making every frame feel like a cinematic cliffhanger.
- Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum (2018) – For horror buffs, this nail‑biting sequel (re‑imagined by the Korean creative team) brings gut‑ripping chills that will keep you glued to the screen.
Netflix Charms – Romance or Comedy?
- Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019) – Dive into this rom‑com where Ha‑Jun takes on Ji Seo‑joon, the charismatic freelance book designer who believes love is a “bonus” on top of his career.
- 18 Again – The Korean reboot of the beloved 17 Again. He portrays the legendary baseball star Ye Ji‑hoon, who faces a life‑altering twist after a mysterious accident.
TV & Supporting Roles
- Something in the Rain (2018) – Remember that sweet romantically‑charged drama? He plays Joon‑ho, the charming older brother of Son Ye‑jin’s character, adding a subtle, comforting presence to the storyline.
Whether you’re in the mood for an adrenaline‑packed action flick or a light‑hearted romantic romp, Ha‑Jun Kwon’s filmography has you covered. So sit back, relax, and let the low‑key genius of Korean cinema sweep you into new adventures while you wait for the next chapter of Bad & Crazy.
This article was originally published in Her World Online.
