T.O.P Addresses His Drug Scandal And Its Aftermath
On January 15, KST, T.O.P gave his first set of media interviews in eleven years as a part of the promotions for Squid Game 2. The former BIGBANG member touched upon multiple topics while talking to the press, including his damning drug scandal.
In 2017, the rapper-actor was embroiled in a scandal for illegal marijuana use that led to a 10-month suspended prison sentence. It took a significant toll on his career and public reputation.
In his latest interview, the former BIGBANG member reflected back at that phase of his life when he was freshly into his 30s. He called it a “lost time” full of “shame, self-loathing, and sincere reflection.”
For me, my 30s were lost time. I went through a lot of shame, self-loathing, and sincere reflection. While making music, I found healing, and I want to share that music with my fans.
— T.O.P
The scars left behind by his drug scandal run deep, even in his loved ones. T.O.P admitted that his parents didn’t like any aspect of his character in Squid Game 2, where he depicts a rapper with substance issues. Despite the show’s success, his family has been unable to feel any joy due to the past incident.
They didn’t like any aspect of that character. They didn’t even say, ‘Good job, Seunghyun.’ I think they still hold back their expressions. Honestly, they can’t be happy yet because I’ve caused them so much pain in the past. I don’t think they can feel joy just yet.
— T.O.P
T.O.P also confessed that his mental health is still recovering, but he has found a solid support system in family and friends.
It’s not perfect, but I believe it has improved a lot and become much stronger. During tough times, my family and friends provided me with comfort.
— T.O.P
Despite the challenges so far, the rapper is optimistic about his way forward.
I can promise and vow that I won’t make mistakes again. It may seem careless to say this, but I left BIGBANG with a lot of guilt, and fans didn’t understand why, which led to misunderstandings and hurt. Now, I can finally speak openly in this interview, so I don’t think there will be any misunderstandings. I’m confident about saying that.
— T.O.P
Looking forward at his 40s, T.O.P said that his goal was to “live an honest life” and gain stability. He also wished to wake up to the day when the negative publicity around him dissipated.
I just hope that when I wake up in the morning, I don’t see bad articles about me on Naver. The last 10 years have been so noisy.
— T.O.P
You can read more about T.O.P’s recent interviews here.
T.O.P Addresses His Current Relationship With BIGBANG Members
