Why T.O.P Left BigBang? Unveiling His Emotional Journey and Painful Decision!

T.O.P, real name Choi Seung-Hyun, recently gave his first interview in 11 years regarding his choice to leave the legendary K-pop group BigBang. The 37-year-old star, who was embroiled in a drug controversy in 2017, expressed profound regret and guilt for his acts and how they affected the group and their agency.

Why T.O.P Left BigBang?

T.O.P revealed that the reasons why he left and departed from BigBang was rooted in his desire to protect the group from further harm caused by his past mistakes. “I caused great harm to both BigBang and my former company due to my mistakes. I wanted to leave the group for years to avoid causing any more damage,” he shared.

The rapper admitted that his sense of guilt and shame made it impossible for him to continue as a member. “Seeing BigBang was like looking at a photo of a family I had been separated from. The pain and suffering were immense,” he confessed.

He also shared his struggle with fans’ expectations for a reunion. “I saw fans posting photos, tagging me and other members, but I was still dealing with the guilt from my mistakes. I responded to them, but my way of response was wrong.”

"I did not want to give false hope to fans who wished for a reunion or were still waiting. The members were precious to me like family. Seeing BigBang was like looking at a photo of a family I had been separated from. It was pain and suffering that only I could understand," he added.

Memories of BIGBANG and a Final Farewell

Reflecting on his time with BigBang, T.O.P called it a “beautiful time” that defined his 20s. However, he acknowledged the damage his scandal caused to the team and how the other members faced criticism because of his actions.

T.O.P with BigBang Members. Source from X

In 2022, T.O.P participated in the release of “Still Life,” which he described as his farewell to both the group and its fans. “I thought it would be my last appearance with BigBang, a way to say goodbye and express gratitude,” he explained.

He recently watched BigBang’s performance at the 2024 MAMA Awards and described it as bittersweet. “I announced my intention to leave because I didn’t want to cause any more damage. Watching them perform brought back memories, but also reminded me of the pain I caused,” he said.

Choosing a New Path

Since leaving BigBang in June 2023, T.O.P has shifted his focus to acting. He recently accepted the role of a drug-addicted rapper named Thanos in Squid Game 2. The role forced him to confront the darkest parts of his past but also provided a path toward redemption.

T.O.P Photo. Source from X

“I want to show how much I’ve grown through my hardships,” T.O.P shared. He emphasized his desire to lead a regular life and pursue his passions in acting and music, while acknowledging the criticism that comes with fame.

On the Possibility of Reunion

When asked about the possibility of reuniting with BigBang, T.O.P’s response was poignant.

“I imagine it often. I feel sorry. I left because I couldn’t face them after what I had done. The members were like family; leaving them was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made.”

T.O.P’s interview shed light on the emotional toll of his choices and his efforts to move forward while carrying the weight of his past. For fans and members alike, his departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

T.O.P’s interview shed light on the emotional toll of his choices and his efforts to move forward while carrying the weight of his past. For fans and members alike, his departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter in his life. This interview finally answers many questions that had lingered in the minds of BigBang fans, known as VIPs, including why T.O.P chose to block fans who tagged him in posts related to BigBang. T.O.P revealed that seeing such posts brought back feelings of guilt and pain, as it reminded him of the harm he believed his actions had caused the group.

Despite his departure, the remaining BigBang members continue to show unwavering support for T.O.P. They have consistently referred to him as a part of their BigBang “family,” a sentiment that reflects the deep bond they share. T.O.P, in turn, has expressed his gratitude and admiration for the members, acknowledging that their connection remains precious to him even as he embarks on a separate path.

What do you think about T.O.P’s decision and his reflections in this interview? Share your thoughts and let us know how you see this emotional chapter of T.O.P’s journey!