Despite experiencing a drug scandal, it seems to have become a 'stepping stone' for growth. This refers to G-Dragon (36, Kwon Ji-yong) and T.O.P (37, Choi Seung-hyun) from the group Big Bang.
The two debuted in the music industry as members of Big Bang in 2006, gaining recognition as top idols with their unique visuals and musicality. In particular, they created their first unit group GD&TOP, producing several hit songs such as 'High High', 'Oh Yeah', 'Bbeok-i-gayo', and 'Jjeoreo', gaining immense popularity.
However, the drug scandal was a significant obstacle for the two, who were otherwise 'doing well' with their team and unit activities.
G-Dragon faced the most unstable period of his career in December 2023 due to allegations of drug use. The police concluded that there was 'no charge' against him, allowing him to escape the controversy. When he appeared before the police, he maintained a confident demeanor with a slight smile, and ultimately aimed for a comeback after receiving this outcome.
He signed a contract with Galaxy Corporation, a new agency and AI company, and received various offers, including an appointment as a visiting professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at KAIST and participation in the MBC entertainment program 'Good Day' (produced by PD Kim Tae-ho). The industry actively supported G-Dragon's return to activities.
Unlike T.O.P, G-Dragon concluded the case with 'no charge', but the damage to his image due to the drug scandal was inevitable. However, he resumed activities without pause. He even established the 'Just Peace' foundation last August to help those who have faced similar injustices, attempting to confront the controversy head-on. He also generously donated 880 million won to the foundation for youth alcohol addiction treatment.
T.O.P was sentenced to 10 months in prison with a 2-year probation for marijuana use in 2017. At the time, he was serving in the military as a police officer, but due to this incident, he was deemed 'unsuitable' for re-service and completed his military duty as a social service worker.
After the drug incident, public trust in him significantly declined, leading to restrictions on his appearances in broadcasts and performances, which brought his activities to a halt. The damage to his image also resulted in loss of brand sponsorships and fanbase attrition. Consequently, his standing in the entertainment industry weakened considerably, but after a period of reflection and self-restraint, he focused on music production and communication, gradually aiming for a comeback. T.O.P is currently appearing in the Netflix original series 'Squid Game 2', revitalizing his acting career.
Director Hwang Dong-hyuk of 'Squid Game' recently expressed support for T.O.P during a media interview, stating, "Since Choi Seung-hyun (T.O.P) has come back after such difficulty, I hope he can show a good side and mend the hearts of those who may not have accepted him yet."
In particular, Director Hwang hinted that the drug risk may no longer be a direct obstacle to T.O.P's activities, saying, "I thought it would be okay since he has taken that much time off (for reflection)."
G-Dragon continues to maintain his reputation as a global K-pop artist, being invited to various prestigious events overseas beyond domestic activities. T.O.P, on the other hand, is reportedly focusing on music production and aiming for a comeback as a singer, despite not showing many activities aside from his appearance in 'Squid Game'.
Perhaps due to the reputation and position built over nearly 20 years in the entertainment industry, the 'drug scandal' appears to be more of a growing pain for the next step and the big league rather than an obstacle for them.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
