As the release of Season 3, which will conclude the 'Squid Game' series, is imminent, an update on TOP, a former member of BIGBANG, has been revealed.
Recently, TOP attended the Netflix global fan event 'Tudum 2025' held in Los Angeles, USA. This is the first time he has participated in promoting the 'Squid Game' series. On this day, actors Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Park Sung-hoon, Kang Ae-sim, and director Hwang Dong-hyuk were also present.
At the event, TOP stated, "You might have been surprised to see me," and added, "I can't miss such a wonderful occasion. I want to give you a little hint about the upcoming Squid Game."
TOP also posted several photos from the event on his social media, but what caught attention was his noticeably gaunt face. He showcased his usual glamorous styling, but his appearance was surprisingly thinner compared to when he appeared as 'Thanos' in Season 2.
Netizens reacted with comments such as "Did he go through a lot of emotional pain?" "He must have had a hard time," "BIGBANG fans are aging, and so is BIGBANG," "Time is merciless," "Time is cruel," "He doesn't look the same as before," "Is he making a comeback?" "He died in Season 2, so why is he promoting Season 3?" "Looks like he was hit hard by negative comments," and more.
Previously, TOP was sentenced to 10 months in prison with a 2-year probation for marijuana use at his home in 2016. He made his comeback last December with Netflix's 'Squid Game 2,' where he played the role of the drug-using rapper and villain 'Thanos.' There was strong criticism in Korea from the casting announcement stage, and he faced controversy over his acting skills after the release, but the project was a success regardless. Although his character died in the series, he attracted attention by attending this event.
A representative from the production explained, "This 'Tudum' event is for the fans, so Choi Seung-hyun, who played the beloved Thanos role in Season 2, also attended."
'Squid Game Season 3' depicts the final fate of Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae), who loses friends in the game he re-enters, and the Front Man (played by Lee Byung-hun), who hides his identity and infiltrates the game, along with the remaining participants. It will be released as a total of 6 episodes on the 27th.
