Entertainment

Controversy Erupts as "Squid Game" Star's Interview Raises Questions About T.O.P’s Role

2025-01-28

Author: John Tan

Introduction

In a recent interview, tensions flared regarding the treatment of T.O.P, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Thanos in "Squid Game 2." The discussion, which involved cast member Yang Dong Geun, stirred significant backlash as viewers noted the stark contrast in how Korean and international media outlets cover T.O.P's involvement in the series.

The Interview with Yang Dong Geun

During the interview with Australian actor Andy Trieu, Yang Dong Geun, also a rapper, was asked to comment on his fellow cast members who have music backgrounds. He casually referred to T.O.P as his "friend," but the conversation took a peculiar turn when Dong Geun appeared to be subtly instructed by someone on staff, suggesting he should refrain from discussing T.O.P further. This moment of hesitation did not go unnoticed and fueled speculation regarding the pressure cast members face when mentioning the controversial figure.

Shift in Conversation

As the conversation progressed, Dong Geun quickly pivoted to discuss another cast member, Im Siwan, known for his role in the boy band ZE:A, indicative of a conscious effort to shift away from T.O.P. This behavior raised eyebrows among fans, igniting discussions on social media platforms like X, where a barrage of comments expressed outrage over what many perceived as T.O.P’s ongoing marginalization.

Media Disparities and Celebrity Culture

The reaction highlights a broader debate about the disparities in media treatment, with many criticizing Korean outlets for casting a shadow over T.O.P's contributions due to past controversies, while international platforms tend to celebrate his role without such qualifiers.

Conclusion

As fans rally to defend T.O.P, the incident underscores the complexities surrounding celebrity culture in South Korea, particularly how public perception can be so volatile and influenced by the media narrative. Will this rethink the way we celebrate our favorite stars? Only time will tell as the conversation around T.O.P continues to evolve in the wake of "Squid Game 2."