18th January 2025 – (Seoul) Choi Seung-hyun, better known as TOP, the former member of K-pop sensation BigBang and star of Netflix’s Squid Game, addressed South Korean media for the first time in over a decade on 15th January. The 37-year-old artist candidly discussed his participation in Squid Game Season 2, his past legal issues, and the possibility of returning to BigBang.
In the interview, TOP expressed a strong desire to apologise for his past, acknowledging that his prolonged silence had led to misunderstandings. “In my 20s, I experienced overwhelming love and success, but I fell from grace due to my mistakes,” he reflected. “That downfall left me mentally devastated, filled with self-hatred, and I made many poor decisions that I deeply regret.”
TOP’s role in Squid Game as Thanos, a struggling rapper entangled in drug use, forced him to confront his own past. He revealed that he had initially planned to exit the entertainment industry but felt compelled to audition for Thanos after receiving an invitation from director Hwang Dong-hyuk. “No one sought me out for ten years. I wanted to repay that trust with my best performance,” he stated.
The character’s portrayal has garnered mixed reviews, with some critics describing it as exaggerated, while international outlets praised it as a highlight of the season. TOP acknowledged the varied reception, stating, “I accept all opinions humbly because evaluating acting is the audience’s right.” He clarified that the character’s quirks were intentionally crafted to reflect his troubled nature.
Reflecting on his departure from BigBang, TOP admitted to feeling immense guilt for the harm he caused to a group that brought him great joy. After completing military service, he informed the members and YG Entertainment of his decision to leave, stating, “I have not been in contact with them, but perhaps in time, I will find peace and reach out.”
He recently watched BigBang perform at the 2024 MAMA Awards, an event that reignited their fanbase. “I felt both pride and guilt watching them,” he admitted. Addressing a previous incident where he blocked fans celebrating BigBang’s anniversary, he explained, “It was painful for me to see those memories, akin to looking at a family photo after separation.”
TOP reiterated that he has no plans to rejoin BigBang, recognising the weight of his past mistakes. “The mistakes I made were far too significant; I have no right to return,” he said, adding that he currently lacks the emotional space to contemplate future projects. His focus remains on being a sincere musician and actor, aspiring to showcase the personal growth he has achieved during challenging times.Share
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