T.O.P’s Tragic Fall from Grace: From BIGBANG’s Star to a Haunted Figure in His 40s
T.O.P (Choi Seung-hyun), once celebrated as the charismatic rapper and visual centerpiece of BigBang, now stands as one of K-pop’s most tragic figures.
Known for his deep voice, commanding presence, and artistic versatility, T.O.P captivated fans worldwide since his debut in 2006. But nearly two decades later, the star’s career and public image have taken a dramatic turn marked by scandal, isolation, and personal struggles.
The 2017 Marijuana Scandal: A Career-Altering Blow
T.O.P’s downward trajectory began during his mandatory military service in 2017, when a marijuana scandal involving trainee Han Seo-hee shook the K-pop world. Although T.O.P claimed he was taking anti-anxiety medication and was unaware of the drug’s nature, a positive drug test led to his conviction. He received a 10-month prison sentence (suspended for two years) and was discharged from his police service duties.
The fallout was swift and unforgiving. Once seen as the sophisticated face of BigBang, T.O.P became a polarizing figure. Fans and the public alike began to turn away, and his actions were blamed for tarnishing the group’s reputation already suffering from the Seungri “Burning Sun” scandal.
Departure From YG Entertainment and BIGBANG
In the years that followed, T.O.P officially left YG Entertainment and announced his exit from BIGBANG, ending hopes of a full group reunion. He shifted focus to art, business ventures, and hinted at a return to music, but no solo comeback materialized as of mid-2025.
Squid Game Appearance and Jarring Visual Transformation
In 2024, T.O.P was cast in Squid Game Season 2, playing a drug-addicted rapper named “Thanos.” Though his casting generated buzz, his role in Squid Game 3 was minimal, leaving little impact. More shocking than his on-screen presence, however, was his dramatic physical transformation.
At a recent press event, T.O.P appeared visibly altered—his gaunt frame, pronounced facial features, and pale complexion raised alarm among fans. Social media erupted with comparisons to “vampires” or “monsters,” and speculations of botched plastic surgery or health issues began circulating.
Whether his transformation is a result of personal trauma, cosmetic changes, or health problems, it reflects a deeper narrative: the emotional toll of fame, the aftermath of scandal, and the struggle for identity in an unforgiving industry.
Once a symbol of K-pop elegance and mystique, T.O.P’s story now serves as a sobering reminder of the volatility of idol life. As he enters his 40s, fans continue to hope for his healing, redemption, and perhaps a final act that brings closure to a story filled with both brilliance and heartbreak.
