The meme featuring Seong Gi-Hun, the main character of “Squid Game,” has become a significant trend within the otaku community. This meme includes two images: the first showcases the character’s soft expression from the first season, while the second captures his serious demeanor in the second season. This contrast has evolved into a creative template that artists have utilized to portray various anime characters.
By early 2025, this meme garnered widespread popularity among anime enthusiasts and artists alike. However, individuals began interpreting it through the lens of different characters from various series.
For instance, a Twitter user shared a rendition featuring Utena Hiiragi, also known as Magia Baiser, from the manga “Gushing Over Magical Girls,” creatively reinterpreting the dual expressions of the character.
The blend of humor and creativity in these images has transformed this meme into a phenomenon within the otaku community, where it is used to highlight emotional contrasts or character transformations across various series. From iconic heroes to lesser-known characters, fans have embraced this meme as a playful and respectful way to express their love for diverse narratives.
This trend illustrates how memes can transcend cultural and gender boundaries, resonating with various audiences and contexts. By expanding into anime culture, the “Squid Game” meme has cemented its place as a global phenomenon, continuing to inspire creativity within numerous communities.
