"We’ll always be waiting for OT4" — Fans react as T.O.P reveals not being in touch with BIGBANG and states he can never erase their memories together

In a public interview with media outlets on January 15, 2025, in Jongno, Seoul, former BIGBANG member T.O.P, born Choi Seung-hyun, disclosed that he is no longer in contact with his former bandmates.

Despite this distance, he emphasized that he can never erase the memories they created together. This conversation marked his first public interview in over a decade. Chosun Biz reported on January 16:

"As of now, I am not in contact with the BIGBANG members. I don't remember exactly how long it has been since we last contacted each other, but I think my feelings are settling down a bit, and I may be able to reach out," he said.

As quoted by K-en News, he added:

"BIGBANG holds so many precious memories for me. However, I feel that I've caused too much harm to the group with my mistakes. I've decided I'm not worthy of returning to BIGBANG. While I'm not in touch with the members, I always cheer for them and their amazing performances as BIGBANG."

T.O.P's journey with BIGBANG, one of South Korea's most influential K-pop groups, came to a turning point in 2017. He was convicted of marijuana use, received a 10-month prison sentence, and suspended for two years. This incident led to his hiatus from the entertainment industry and a temporary suspension from mandatory military service.

In February 2022, YG Entertainment announced BIGBANG's comeback, with T.O.P ending his exclusive contract but indicating he would continue participating in group activities. However, by May 2023, T.O.P confirmed his complete withdrawal from the group.

After a prolonged hiatus, T.O.P made a notable return to the entertainment scene by joining the cast of Netflix's Squid Game 2. Released in December 2024, he took on the role of Thanos, a former rapper whose downfall stemmed from a cryptocurrency scam.

Fans worldwide had varied reactions to T.O.P's revelations and his return to acting. Some long-time supporters expressed hope and are eager to see him re-establish his career. One fan wrote on X:

"Truly only he will understand what it means to have to take a step back and can only see them from a far. But I also hope he can finally heal and see that he is allowed to forgive himself. We’ll always be waiting for OT4"

Discussions on social media platforms reflected a spectrum of opinions, highlighting the challenges public figures face in reconciling past controversies with future endeavors.

"When watching BB's old video, I can see that their relationship gives a family relationship vibe. Really miss their togetherness. Tabi, please comeback home (Bigbang)," one fan wrote.

"All this time, he blocked the fans only because it's painful for him seeing all those BigBang related photos & not due to hatred. Learn that peeps. Please respect him," another fan wrote.

"Jesus Christ. To all my VIP moots. We need to pray over each other and send the collected goodness over to Choir cos that man has had enough! (I've had enough when can we see the light at the end!!!!)," one fan added.

Others highlighted that T.O.P had suffered enough for over a decade. Fans also expressed their support for his comeback into the industry.

"We are okay Tabi. Just like what Ji said, you are welcome back home wherever you are," a fan said.

"I wonder who among the members might cry knowing his full reasons now bec not being able to contact each other also means he wasnt able to convey all his feelings to them. I just knw Jiyong or even the others nver let go of him in their hearts bec they know he just needed time," another fan remarked.

"May you all walk on the flowery path ahead, you've all been through so much. Thank you for opening you heart and sharing all of these Tabiyah," another fan wrote.

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T.O.P's return to the entertainment industry with Squid Game 2

In Netflix's Squid Game 2, former BIGBANG member T.O.P, made a notable return to the screen, portraying the character Thanos. He is a former rapper whose downfall resulted from a cryptocurrency scam by Myung-gi (Yim Si-wan) and subsequent drug issues.

Thanos entered the deadly competition as Player 230 and brought a complex backstory that added depth to the narrative. His character's involvement in a cryptocurrency scam led to significant financial loss, amounting to approximately $814,000, and a tarnished reputation. This financial ruin propelled him into the high-stakes games, seeking a chance at redemption and financial recovery.

Throughout the season, Thanos exhibited a blend of charisma and vulnerability. His past as a rapper is subtly referenced, with moments that showcased his musical talents, providing brief respites from the intense competition. Interactions with other contestants revealed layers of regret and a desire for redemption.

In episode 6, Thanos met a tragic end. During a physical confrontation with Myung-gi in the gents' washroom, Thanos gets stabbed in the neck by Myung-gi, ultimately killing him.

Squid Game 2 delved deeper into the sinister world of deadly children's games, expanding on the themes of desperation and human morality. The narrative continued to follow protagonist Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) as he uncovered more about the organization behind the games and sought to dismantle them.

Meanwhile, T.O.P's casting in Squid Game 2 was met with mixed reactions, particularly in South Korea. Some viewers criticized the decision due to his past legal issues, leading to his omission from promotional materials and events related to the series.

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Squid Game 2 has 7 episodes and is available on Netflix in multiple dubbings and subtitles.