By Nana 
In a significant announcement that clarifies his career trajectory and his relationship with his former group, BIGBANG, Choi Seung-hyun, professionally known as T.O.P, has unequivocally stated his non-participation in the group’s upcoming 20th-anniversary celebrations. This declaration, made during a recent fan meeting in Japan on September 14th and reported by media outlet TVBS, solidifies his pivot towards a solo career, a path he has been forging since his official departure from the iconic K-Pop ensemble in 2023. While firmly stepping away from collective group activities, T.O.P expressed unwavering support for the individual pursuits and music of his former bandmates, G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung, who are proceeding with their 20th-anniversary world tour as a trio.
The Evolution of a K-Pop Icon: T.O.P’s Journey
T.O.P’s career began in 2006 as a pivotal member of BIGBANG, a group that would soon redefine the landscape of K-Pop and global music. Alongside G-Dragon, Taeyang, Daesung, and former member Seungri, BIGBANG quickly rose to prominence under YG Entertainment, pioneering unique musical styles, fashion trends, and performance aesthetics that earned them the moniker "Kings of K-Pop." T.O.P, recognized for his deep vocal tone, distinctive rap style, and commanding stage presence, was instrumental in shaping the group’s sound and image. Beyond his contributions to chart-topping hits like "Lies," "Haru Haru," "Fantastic Baby," and "BANG BANG BANG," he also ventured into acting, earning critical acclaim for roles in films such as "71: Into the Fire" (2010) and "Tazza: The Hidden Card" (2014), and the popular drama "Iris" (2009), demonstrating his versatility as an artist. His solo musical efforts, including the track "Doom Da Da," further showcased his unique artistic vision, blending hip-hop with experimental elements.
A Period of Hiatus and Personal Reflection
The trajectory of T.O.P’s career, however, encountered a significant challenge in 2017 when he was indicted for marijuana use, an offense that carries severe legal and public image repercussions in South Korea. This incident led to a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and a temporary suspension of his mandatory military service, which he later completed as a public service worker. The scandal sent shockwaves through the K-Pop industry and deeply affected his public standing. Following this period of intense scrutiny and introspection, T.O.P took a hiatus from public activities. In 2023, he announced his intention to retire from the entertainment industry via his personal social media, a statement that was later clarified as a departure from BIGBANG activities to pursue his own artistic path, culminating in his official exit from the group that same year.
During his hiatus, which he candidly addressed in his fan letter, T.O.P revealed a complex emotional landscape. He confessed that stepping away from the relentless demands of the entertainment industry provided him a sense of freedom in his ordinary daily life, a stark contrast to the high-pressure environment of superstardom. However, this newfound freedom was accompanied by feelings of loneliness and emptiness, a sentiment many artists experience when detached from their creative outlets and fan connections. Crucially, he emphasized that he never ceased working on music, continuing to hone his craft and explore new artistic directions in private. This period of quiet dedication laid the groundwork for his eventual return.
The Return to the Limelight and Solo Ambitions
T.O.P’s re-emergence into the entertainment scene began in December 2024 with the highly anticipated Netflix original series Squid Game Season 2. His casting in the globally acclaimed show marked a significant comeback, demonstrating a renewed commitment to his acting career and a strategic move to re-engage with a broader audience. This high-profile role not only offered him a platform to showcase his acting prowess once more but also served as a clear signal of his intention to reclaim his place in the public eye.
Building on this momentum, T.O.P released his first solo full-length album earlier this year, in 2026. The album, which has garnered attention for its distinctive sound and introspective lyrics, is a testament to the creative work he undertook during his break. It represents a significant milestone in his solo career, allowing him to fully express his artistic identity independent of the group’s established sound. The album’s reception and his role in Squid Game Season 2 have positioned him as an artist embarking on a distinct and independent trajectory.
A Clear Stance on BIGBANG’s 20th Anniversary
At the recent fan meeting in Japan, T.O.P addressed the speculation surrounding his involvement in BIGBANG’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. He definitively stated that he would not be participating in the activities planned by G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung. His words conveyed a sense of closure regarding his chapter with BIGBANG as an active member, while simultaneously expressing deep respect and affection for his former bandmates.
"Although I can no longer stand on the same stage side by side with the members," T.O.P reportedly stated, "I will continue to support and cheer for their activities and music from behind the scenes." This statement underscores a delicate balance: a clear delineation of his professional path while preserving the personal bonds forged over two decades. It communicates a mature understanding of their separate professional journeys, acknowledging the shared history without committing to future joint performances.
He further elaborated on his gratitude to his fans, reading a heartfelt handwritten letter. "Your support has been the greatest driving force allowing me to stand before the public again," he shared, "I hope there will be no more distance between us moving forward." This sentiment highlights the profound impact of fan loyalty, particularly during challenging times, and expresses a desire for a direct, unmediated relationship with his audience as a solo artist.
BIGBANG as a Trio: A New Era
This year, 2026, marks the momentous 20th anniversary of BIGBANG’s debut. In commemoration of this milestone, G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung are currently embarking on a world tour titled "BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR XX : COSMOS." This tour, celebrating two decades of groundbreaking music and cultural influence, represents a new chapter for the group as a trio. The "COSMOS" title itself suggests a vast, expansive universe of their musical legacy, perhaps hinting at their enduring presence despite changes in lineup.
The decision for the remaining three members to continue as BIGBANG underscores their commitment to the group’s legacy and their fans, known affectionately as V.I.P.s. While the absence of T.O.P and former member Seungri (who left the industry entirely following unrelated controversies in 2019) is undoubtedly felt by fans, the trio’s continuation demonstrates resilience and a determination to uphold the BIGBANG name. Their tour is expected to revisit their extensive discography, showcasing their individual talents while performing as a cohesive unit, navigating the challenges and opportunities of a reconfigured group dynamic.
Implications for the K-Pop Landscape
T.O.P’s definitive statement and the subsequent activities of BIGBANG’s remaining members reflect broader trends within the K-Pop industry regarding artist longevity, group evolution, and individual career pursuits. It highlights the increasing autonomy artists gain after establishing themselves, allowing them to make choices that align with their personal and artistic visions, even if it means diverging from their original groups.
For BIGBANG, the 20th anniversary without T.O.P on stage presents a complex narrative. While fans will undoubtedly cherish the trio’s performances, the absence of a founding member will inevitably spark discussions about the group’s identity and future configurations. However, it also signifies the group’s adaptability and enduring appeal, proving that the core spirit of BIGBANG can persist through various iterations.
For T.O.P, this decision marks a definitive step into a fully independent artistic identity. His success with Squid Game Season 2 and his solo album indicates a successful transition and a re-establishment of his brand. His candidness about his struggles and gratitude to fans is a move towards transparency, potentially fostering a deeper connection with his audience as he navigates this new phase of his career. The clear boundaries he has set, while maintaining respectful ties, could serve as a model for other K-Pop artists transitioning from group activities to solo endeavors, emphasizing that support and camaraderie can exist without direct professional collaboration. This evolving dynamic underscores the maturity of both the artists and the K-Pop industry, allowing for individual growth while acknowledging shared histories.
