"It's been too long"— Fans rejoice as BIGBANG's T.O.P meets media after nearly a decade to discuss Squid Game role as Thanos

On January 15, 2025, Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T.O.P and formerly a member of the legendary K-pop group BIGBANG, broke his near-decade-long public silence. Meeting with reporters at a café in Seoul, the artist marked his first media appearance since 2017, when a mari*uana-related conviction halted his career. Fans, who had eagerly awaited his return, celebrated the moment as a major step in his comeback.

Reportedly, dressed in a black suit, T.O.P addressed reporters signaling a fresh chapter in his life. The event drew a crowd of devoted fans, some of whom brought posters of his character Thanos from Netflix’s Squid Game 2 for him to autograph.

Additionally, the former BIGBANG member also shared his thoughts on his recent role, Thanos. While speaking to Korea Times, he shared:

"The offer to play Thanos was a daunting proposition. The character mirrored my past, reflecting aspects I'd rather keep hidden. The fear of being pigeonholed into one role made me hesitate. But destiny seemed to be pulling me in this direction."

T.O.P’s engagement with fans, signing autographs and exchanging smiles, created an emotional atmosphere. Many took to social media to express their excitement. An X user, @maejch, wrote,

"I don't know what to say. Seeing him moving AND HEALTHY .oh it's been too long but my love for him still grows."

Despite the criticism that lingered domestically, particularly regarding his casting, many fans defended his right to redemption. Social media buzz was filled with messages of encouragement.

"GUYS TOP UPDATE IM CRYING HE SIGNED THANOS POSTERS FOR FANS," an X user wrote.

"TOP really went through a lot all these years, it wasn't easy for him to play character THANOS that reflects his past side and he would rather keep it hidden. He was brave for this. I am so proud of you TOP," a fan commented.

"This is the face I really miss. His hands, his eyebrows, his black hair, and also his ring on his index finger. My God," another user added.

"i feel like he is never change, always be that handsome man and has a strong aura (idk how to explain)," a fan mentioned.

Many expressed their hopes for him to have a fresh start in the year ahead.

"HE LOOKS WELL HE LOOKS HEALTHY THAT’S ENOUGH I AM SATISFIED I AM CONTENT AS LONG AS HE IS WELL HEALTHY SHINING GLOWING," a user wrote.

"you look so good Tabi. I'm so proud of you. Welcome back! 2025 YEAR OF T.O.P," a fan commented.

"I don’t know anymore what I’m crying for, his look today or that person got his signature," a netizen added.

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More about BIGBANG's T.O.P's appearance in Squid Game 2 as Thanos

This appearance marked T.O.P's first time directly addressing his role in Squid Game 2, a controversial yet pivotal moment in his career. While the character he portrayed—a retired rapper with a troubled past—bore striking similarities to his real-life struggles, the international reception of his performance has been largely positive.

While the casting sparked controversy in South Korea due to his legal history, international audiences largely praised his performance, showcasing the contrasting reception between domestic and global viewers.

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk stood by his decision to cast T.O.P, emphasizing the actor's dedication to the role despite his extended absence from the screen. The director lauded the actor's portrayal, highlighting the complexity he brought to Thanos.

While some critics debated the decision to tie the character’s backstory to his real-life challenges, others felt it added authenticity to his performance, further amplifying the emotional weight of the series.

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T.O.P’s reappearance was seen as a symbolic moment, not just for the artist but also for his supporters, who remained steadfast throughout his hiatus. As fans rejoiced, it was clear that his ability to connect with people extended far beyond his music and acting.