T.O.P Returns to Spotlight... Speaks Out Through 'Squid Game 2' Interview

(By Minsoo Jang, MHN Sports) Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T.O.P and formerly of BIGBANG, is set to participate in a media interview as part of his role in Netflix’s Squid Game 2. This marks his first public appearance in years following a series of controversies.

On January 10, Netflix announced that T.O.P, who plays the character Thanos in the highly anticipated sequel, will take part in a roundtable interview with the press on January 15.

T.O.P’s casting in Squid Game 2 has been a source of heated debate since it was first announced. The controversy stems from his 2017 conviction for marijuana use, which resulted in a 10-month prison sentence with a 2-year probation. Following public backlash, T.O.P declared his retirement from the entertainment industry, further intensifying scrutiny of his return.

Netflix and the production team have taken cautious steps in promoting his involvement. T.O.P’s appearance has been minimized in promotional materials such as posters, official stills, and trailers, and he has not participated in major press events like production showcases.

While the series has received positive reactions from international fans, domestic audiences remain critical. Many viewers have voiced displeasure, particularly over his portrayal of a character involved with drug use, questioning the casting’s intent with comments like, “Is this method acting?” and “Are they mocking the viewers?” His performance has also drawn criticism for being overly exaggerated.

In the face of these challenges, T.O.P has chosen to confront the controversy head-on by engaging with the media. This interview marks his first official statement in Korea in eight years since his drug scandal and his first domestic press interview in 11 years, following his 2014 promotional activities for the film Tazza: The Hidden Card.

Regarding the decision to hold the interview, Netflix stated, “We held extensive internal discussions. Given the varied reactions to the character and T.O.P’s involvement, we carefully deliberated with his management before finalizing the decision.”

All eyes will be on T.O.P as he addresses the public, with many eager to see how he navigates the controversies and whether he offers any apologies or explanations for his past actions.

Photo = Netflix