She joins Squid Game to win money in order to support her gender-affirming surgery and move to Thailand as a Kathoey, befriending multiple characters, including a woman named Kim Young-mi.

On release, Hyun-ju was received well for her portrayal and writing, with multiple critics considering the character an authentic representation of trans women.

Cho Hyun-ju appears in the second season of Squid Game, a trans woman who formerly served as a soldier in the South Korean military as a sergeant until she was discharged for wanting to transition.

Along with Geum-ja and Yong-sik, she allies with Gi-hun's team, eventually agreeing to participate in a revolt by helping steal guns from soldiers and attempting to take over the facility.

Cho Hyun-ju was created by series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, who compared her in purpose to the character Ali Abdul from the first season of Squid Game.

[1] He hoped that, through her choices, actions, and the way she "carries herself in the game," it would raise awareness of issues surrounding trans people in South Korea.

Park avoided exaggerating gestures such as his voice, feeling that altering his naturally deep speaking tone would "undermine the emotional authenticity."

[3] TV Guide writer Kat Moon believed that the controversy create more conversations about LGBTQ+ representation and "move the needle" on the subject outside of the US.

[11] The writing and portrayal of Hyun-ju has received generally positive reception, identified as "by far the best addition" in season 2 by USA Today writer Kelly Lawler.

[12] Discussing Film writer James Crooks, while noting that the character is likely to "spark some unnecessary online discourse," the inclusion of Hyun-ju helped add a "heart-warming level of emotional depth" to the story.

Johnston disputed arguments that South Korean trans actresses were not feasible to cast, citing examples such as Lee Si-yeon and Choi Hae-jun.

[18] Gizmodo writers Germain Lussier and Cheryl Eddy identified her as one of the best parts of the second season, saying that while it would be better if she was played by a trans woman, they appreciated that her presence felt important and not merely added for diversity.

[19] Den of Geek writer Brynna Arens considered her the "MVP" of the second season, praising her for her competence, bravery, sympathizing as an American with the plight of being desperate for healthcare.