Resumo

The study seeks to reflect on the symbolic function of the masks worn by three characters who play the deadly games in the South Korean series Squid Game, a television series created and directed by Hwang Donghyuk and broadcast on the Netflix streaming service. The hierarchical structure of the game organization is made up of the leader called Frontman and the guards in pink uniforms. In addition to the VIP characters, they all wear masks to hide their identities. We noticed that the masks, in addition to having the function of hiding the faces of the members of this organization, emit meanings. Masks are seen as signs, this artifact that belongs to the character’s costume, exudes different meanings. This aesthetic object originates from ancient civilizations and was often used in rites of passage. The aesthetics of the masks are distinguished by their functions, and can be beautiful, terrifying, human, animalistic, sacred, solemn or comical. To interpret the masks of the characters Frontman (Lee Byung-hun), the guard No-Eul (Park Gyun-young) and the host Oh Il-nan (Oh Yeong-soo), we sought the contribution of Roland Barthes’ theory (2009) on the fashion system and elements of semiology. In addition to Luciano Guimarães’ color theory (2000).