Mon Dec 30 05:50:00 UTC 2024: ## K-Pop Star T.O.P Makes Comeback in ‘Squid Game’ After Nine-Year Hiatus Following Drug Conviction

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T.O.P of the K-pop group BIGBANG, is making a highly anticipated return to the entertainment industry after a nine-year absence. His comeback features a prominent role in the second season of Netflix’s hit series, *Squid Game*.

In 2017, T.O.P was sentenced to 10 months in prison and a two-year suspension from mandatory military service for marijuana use. The conviction led to a ban from the Korean entertainment industry. Following his conviction, T.O.P issued multiple public apologies for his actions, expressing deep remorse for disappointing his fans and the public. He also briefly hospitalized after an apparent overdose of tranquilizers.

*Squid Game* director Hwang Dong-hyuk revealed that he cast T.O.P despite his past, highlighting the actor’s impressive performance and acknowledging the courage it took to portray a character—a drug-using rapper—with similarities to his past struggles. Hwang stated that T.O.P’s performance in the role was “very impressive” and that he was “very satisfied.”

T.O.P’s appearance in *Squid Game* marks a significant step in his comeback. While his past remains a controversial aspect of his career, the director’s statement, and the inclusion of the actor, suggest a potential turning point for the K-pop star. *Squid Game* season 2 is currently streaming on Netflix.

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