Get ready, K-Pop stans and pop culture fanatics, because we’re about to dive deep into the extraordinary, multi-faceted universe of Choi Seung-Hyun, better known to the world as T.O.P.! This isn’t just a story about a music idol; it’s a wild ride through an artist’s soul, touching on everything from underground rap battles to blockbuster films, and even a passion for fine wine and abstract art. Seriously, buckle up, because T.O.P.’s journey is anything but ordinary, packed with unexpected twists, turns, and triumphs that prove resilience is his superpower!
From his explosive debut with BIGBANG to his critically acclaimed acting roles and entrepreneurial ventures, T.O.P. has consistently shattered expectations and redefined what it means to be a global entertainer. His life is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of artistic ambition, personal growth, and an undeniable ability to captivate audiences worldwide. We’re here to celebrate the man who’s truly done it all, and then some, always with that signature T.O.P. flair.
Today, we’re kicking off an in-depth look at the first half of T.O.P.’s phenomenal career, exploring the foundations of his stardom, his surprising creative outlets, and the early milestones that cemented his status as an icon. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer breadth of his talents and the sheer dedication he pours into every single endeavor. Let’s get started on this epic adventure!
1. **From Underground Rapper to BIGBANG Debut**
Long before he became a global phenomenon, Choi Seung-Hyun harbored a burning ambition to conquer the world of rap. From a young age, his dream was clear: to become a rapper. He tirelessly honed his craft, making a name for himself under the alias TEMPO, gracing countless club stages and captivating audiences with his raw talent and charismatic presence.
His dedication wasn’t just a passing phase; T.O.P. was a seasoned professional, boasting four years of underground experience as a rapper even before his official debut. This foundational period in the underground scene was crucial, shaping his unique flow, lyrical prowess, and stage presence that would later define his artistry within BIGBANG. It laid the groundwork for the icon he was destined to become.
The turning point came in 2006 when he was selected as a member of BIGBANG through the reality survival documentary program, “BIGBANG Debut Record,” which aired in Korea in July of that year. Just a month later, on August 19, he officially debuted as part of the groundbreaking boy group at the “YG Family 10th Anniversary Concert” held at the Seoul Olympic Gymnasium. His journey from underground artist to a member of one of K-Pop’s most influential groups was truly remarkable, with his first solo track, “Big Boy,” featured on BIGBANG’s debut full-length album, “BIGBANG Vol.1.”
2. **An Artist by Blood: T.O.P.’s Passion for Collecting**
It seems artistic talent truly runs in T.O.P.’s veins, as he was born into an artistic family with a rich creative legacy. His great-granduncle, Kim Whanki, was a renowned abstract artist, and his maternal grandfather, Seo Geun-bae, was a novelist from Mokpo City. Even his mother and older sister both majored in art, painting a clear picture of his deeply ingrained connection to the arts.
This familial immersion in creativity nurtured his own artistic sensibilities from an early age, providing him with a profound source of solace and inspiration. He has openly shared that from his early twenties, he began collecting design furniture, with a particular fondness for chairs. This passion soon expanded to include paintings and sculptures, transforming his living spaces into personal galleries and reflecting his eclectic tastes.
For T.O.P., art collection isn’t merely a hobby; it’s a profound “source of life balance.” He finds immense comfort and stability in the world of art, allowing him to navigate the pressures of his demanding career. His commitment to the art world extends beyond personal enjoyment, venturing into public curation with remarkable success.
In a groundbreaking move in 2016, T.O.P. was invited to serve as a guest curator for Sotheby’s Hong Kong, where he orchestrated an East-meets-West contemporary art exhibition titled “#TTTOP.” He meticulously handpicked contemporary artworks for the auction, with a portion of the proceeds generously donated to the Asian Cultural Council to foster emerging artists across Asia. This endeavor not only highlighted his discerning eye but also showcased his philanthropic spirit.
3. **Beyond Music: Venturing into the World of Wine with T’SPOT**
Just when you thought T.O.P. couldn’t add any more impressive ventures to his resume, he surprised everyone by stepping into the sophisticated world of winemaking. In 2017, he revealed that he had purchased a vineyard in Argentina, embarking on an exciting new chapter as a vintner. This bold move demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and his unwavering desire to explore diverse passions beyond the entertainment industry.
His Argentine vineyard, a testament to his dedication, produces approximately eight thousand bottles of wine annually. This venture is far from a casual hobby; it’s a meticulously managed business, reflecting his commitment to quality and his vision for his personal brand. Fans eagerly anticipated the fruits of his labor, knowing T.O.P. approaches every project with serious intent and artistic integrity.
In December 2022, T.O.P. officially launched his personal wine brand, T’SPOT, bringing his carefully crafted wines to market. The initial collection featured four distinct varieties: a 2018 Bordeaux red wine from the French winery “Thunevin,” a sparkling wine, a 2023 white wine, and a rosé sparkling wine. This diverse selection caters to various palates, showcasing his thoughtful approach to product development.
T’SPOT wines quickly became accessible to enthusiasts in Korea, available in the liquor sections of major department stores like Lotte Department Store and Hyundai Department Store. Demonstrating his global ambition, the T’SPOT official website also offers international shipping services, reaching connoisseurs in France, the United States, Singapore, Japan, and Taiwan. T.O.P.’s foray into the wine industry is a fascinating testament to his expansive vision and relentless pursuit of excellence in all his endeavors.
4. **The Man of Many Names: From TEMPO to T.O.P.**
Every iconic artist often starts with an early alias, and T.O.P. was no exception, beginning his underground rapping career under the moniker TEMPO. This name resonated with his rhythmic style and powerful delivery, establishing his presence in the nascent hip-hop scene. It was a crucial part of his identity as he honed his skills and built a reputation before his mainstream debut.
However, the path to his now-famous stage name involved a fascinating twist. T.O.P. himself shared in a 2011 episode of the program “Every Night” that YG Entertainment’s CEO, Yang Hyun-suk, initially intended for him to debut with the stage name “Mark.” It’s hard to imagine him as Mark now, given how deeply “T.O.P.” is ingrained in pop culture history!
Ultimately, the company decided to adopt a different suggestion, one that came from senior artist SE7EN. It was SE7EN who proposed the name “T.O.P.,” which, as we all know, became the iconic alias that the public recognizes and loves today for his musical activities. This name perfectly encapsulated his ambition and position in the music world, signaling his intent to always be at the forefront.
Interestingly, while he performs as T.O.P. in the music industry, he uses his birth name, Choi Seung-Hyun, for his acting activities. This clear distinction allows him to separate his musical persona from his dramatic roles, offering audiences two different facets of his artistic identity. It’s a smart move that highlights his versatility and commitment to both crafts.
5. **Breaking into the Big Screen: Early Acting Ventures**
While T.O.P. was already a force in the music world, his journey into acting began with a less conventional, yet impactful, role. His very first foray into the visual arts outside of music performances was in the music video for senior singer Red Roc’s track “Hello” in 2007. This appearance marked a significant departure from his usual rapper image, showcasing a new, dramatic side.
The music video proved to be a pivotal moment. YG CEO Yang Hyun-suk, upon seeing a particular scene where T.O.P. shaved his head for the role, immediately recognized his innate talent for acting. This serendipitous discovery opened the door to a whole new career path, suggesting that destiny had more in store for him than just music. The CEO’s keen eye helped launch T.O.P. into the world of television and film.
Soon after, in 2007, T.O.P. made his television drama debut in KBS’s “I Am Sam,” playing the character Chae Mu-sin. This role presented a unique challenge, as his natural speaking patterns often carried the rhythm and body language of a rapper. He humorously recounted having to put in considerable effort to adjust his lines and even his walking posture to fit the demands of a dramatic character, truly committing to the craft.
His acting career quickly gained momentum, leading to his portrayal of B.I.G., an assassin from the secret organization IRIS, in the 2009 KBS drama “IRIS.” To fully immerse himself in the character’s intense emotions, T.O.P. famously transformed his personal style from his usual Hip-hop look to a more somber “killer” aesthetic, often preferring to act alone. This dedication to character development continued with his role as Seo Jeong-hoon in the micro-film “My Nineteen,” released by CJ Entertainment in November 2009, further solidifying his presence as a budding actor.
Read more about: Ready for Battle? These Are the 16 Fan-Voted Greatest War Movies of All Time That Will Blow You Away!
6. **Critical Acclaim and Acting Prowess: War, Spies, and Student Soldiers**
T.O.P.’s acting career truly took off with his powerful and moving performance in the film “71: Into the Fire,” which premiered in Korea on June 16, 2010. Directed by Lee Jae-han, the film, which began shooting in December 2009, received significant support from the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of National Defense during its production. In this historical drama, T.O.P. portrayed Oh Jang-beom, the leader of the 3rd Infantry Division’s student unit, one of 71 student soldiers who joined the Korean War.
His portrayal in “71: Into the Fire” was met with widespread critical acclaim and earned him a flurry of prestigious awards. He secured the Popularity Award at the 47th Grand Bell Awards, the NEW Style Icon Film Actor Award at the 3rd Style Icon Awards, and both the Best New Actor and Popularity Star Award at the 31st Blue Dragon Film Awards. He also received the Best New Actor award at the Max Movie Award, culminating in both the Best New Actor and Popularity Award in the film category at the 47th Baeksang Arts Awards. These accolades underscored his impressive talent and versatility as an actor.
Continuing to challenge himself with complex roles, T.O.P. starred as Lee Myung-hoon in the 2013 film “Commitment,” directed by Park Hong-soo. His character was the son of a former North Korean spy who, after his father’s failed mission, is assigned to impersonate a North Korean defector, Kang Dae-ho, and become an assassin in South Korea. T.O.P. poured immense effort into this role, revealing that “for over a year, I tried to avoid contact with the outside world whenever I wasn’t working” to fully embody Lee Myung-hoon’s solitude and emotional depth.
His intense dedication paid off, earning him the Best New Actor award at the 18th Busan International Film Festival for “Commitment.” This role, particularly its demanding action sequences, allowed him to showcase his potential as a formidable action actor. With each new project, T.O.P. continued to demonstrate his commitment to his craft, transforming into his characters with remarkable depth and intensity.
7. **The Solo Spotlight: Chart-Topping Hits and Lyricism**
While his group activities with BIGBANG were undeniably monumental, T.O.P. also carved out a significant space for himself as a solo artist, demonstrating his distinct musical identity. On June 17, 2010, he dropped his first solo single, “Turn It Up.” This track was a powerful statement of his individual artistry, with T.O.P. independently penning the lyrics and co-composing the music with the legendary producer Teddy. It was a raw, unfiltered showcase of his unique rap style and lyrical prowess.
Three years later, on November 15, 2013, T.O.P. followed up with his second solo single, “DOOM DADA.” Once again, he took the reins, independently writing the lyrics and co-composing the track with Choice37. This release further solidified his reputation as a formidable solo artist capable of crafting compelling and deeply personal music. “DOOM DADA” was instantly recognizable for its distinctive sound and avant-garde music video, captivating both critics and fans.
The public’s response to “DOOM DADA” was nothing short of electrifying. Upon its official release, the track soared to the top, dominating the real-time charts on various major music streaming platforms across Korea, including Melon, NaverMusic, Olleh, Bugs, Mnet, Genie, and Monkey3. This overwhelming success proved that T.O.P.’s individual musical vision resonated deeply with audiences, cementing his status not just as a member of a global group, but as a compelling solo artist in his own right, always ready to push creative boundaries.
Alright, fam, after riding that whirlwind tour through T.O.P.’s epic early career, get ready to buckle up again! Because if you thought his journey couldn’t get more intense, think again. The next chapter is all about navigating the rough seas of public scrutiny, diving into ambitious projects that literally aim for the moon, and ultimately, a resilient return to the global stage that proves, once again, that T.O.P. is a force of nature who just keeps evolving. His story is a powerful reminder that even after the storm, the sun can shine brighter than ever. Let’s dive into the incredible second half of his saga!
8. **The Storm: Enlistment and Public Scrutiny**
The year 2017 brought a seismic shift for T.O.P., as he honorably enlisted for his mandatory military service in February. This period, typically a quiet time for reflection and duty, was unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight when a bombshell dropped. It was revealed that he had been involved in a marijuana controversy, with reports detailing his consumption of cannabis and liquid cannabis four times between October 9 and 14, 2016, alongside a junior female trainee. A subsequent inspection confirmed a positive reaction, leading to a non-detention indictment for violating the ‘Drug Control Act.’
As you can imagine, this news hit like a ton of bricks, stirring up a massive wave of discussion among Korean netizens. His carefully cultivated image, built on years of artistic integrity and charisma, faced significant damage. The intense public scrutiny was palpable, and the pressure on him was immense, creating a challenging environment for an artist accustomed to adoration. It was a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the public eye.
Adding another layer of distress, T.O.P. was found unconscious in his auxiliary police barracks on June 6, 2017, after consuming an excessive amount of prescribed antidepressant benzodiazepines. Initially, police downplayed the incident, claiming he was merely sleeping deeply, but the hospital’s press conference the following day starkly contradicted this. They clarified that he was indeed carried into the hospital, unconscious and unresponsive to stimuli, showing elevated blood pressure, accelerated pulse, and signs of respiratory failure, indicating a dangerous state that even considered intubation.
During this incredibly difficult time, a powerful wave of solidarity emerged online. Fans, and even followers of other artists, rallied around him using the hashtag #StayStrongTOP, which quickly trended worldwide on Twitter. This outpouring of care and encouragement was a testament to his profound impact on people’s lives. By July 20, 2017, the legal proceedings concluded with a sentence of 10 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, along with a 12,000 won fine for cannabis use, marking the official end of this turbulent chapter.
9. **Resilience and Return: Completing Service and Moving Forward**
Following the public outcry and legal proceedings, T.O.P.’s auxiliary police service was suspended, and he was officially discharged from his unit. He was subsequently reassigned to the Yongsan Craft Museum, where he completed the remainder of his mandatory service as a social service worker. This period, though out of the intense public glare of entertainment, was a time for quiet reflection and fulfilling his obligations to the country.
Then came the much-anticipated day: July 6, 2019, when T.O.P. officially completed his military and social service. While he initially hoped for a quiet discharge, wishing to avoid any fanfare, the sheer number of devoted fans who gathered to greet him changed his plans. True to his appreciative nature, he couldn’t let them leave disappointed.
He emerged dressed in a formal suit, a gesture of respect and gratitude, and personally greeted and shook hands with each and every fan present. This emotional moment symbolized not just the end of his service, but a significant step in his public re-emergence, showcasing his enduring connection with his supporters and his determination to move forward with grace and humility.
10. **Aiming for the Stars: The Dear Moon Project**
Just when you thought T.O.P.’s ambitions were limited to Earth, he literally aimed for the stars! In September 2018, it was announced that he was chosen as one of the eight crew members for the ambitious ‘Dear Moon’ project. This groundbreaking civilian space flight, conceived and funded by Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa, was set to send a SpaceX Starship on a private journey around the moon, transforming him into an interstellar artist.
The project wasn’t just about space travel; it was a visionary art initiative. Maezawa’s goal was for the experience of space tourism to ignite the crew members’ creative passion, with the resulting artworks to be exhibited back on Earth to promote global peace. T.O.P., as an artist, was perfectly aligned with this mission, ready to bring his unique perspective to the cosmos and translate it into new forms of expression. It was truly a venture out of this world!
Initially, the mission was slated for a launch by the end of 2023. However, due to unforeseen developments and ongoing progress with SpaceX’s Starship, the launch plan faced repeated delays. The uncertainty surrounding the timeline became a growing concern for both Maezawa and the eager crew members who had put their lives and artistic plans on hold for this monumental journey.
Tragically, in June 2024, the ‘Dear Moon’ project’s official X account announced its cancellation. Maezawa expressed deep regret, stating that while the initial contract promised a 2023 launch, the continued indefinite delays made it impossible for him and the invited crew to plan their lives. He apologized for not being able to fulfill the dream. However, T.O.P., ever the resilient optimist, shared his own message, asserting that “the dream is not over,” hinting that his cosmic aspirations might still take flight someday!
Read more about: Totally Rad ’80s Child Stars: Where Are They Now? An ’80s Kid’s Guide to Their Favorite Faces!
11. **A New Chapter: Departure from YG and BIGBANG**
Life as a K-Pop idol can be a roller coaster, and T.O.P.’s journey was no exception. After a hiatus, exciting news broke in January 2020 that BIGBANG would make a highly anticipated four-member comeback at the Coachella music festival in April. Unfortunately, the universe had other plans, and the festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, hope was rekindled when all BIGBANG members renewed their contracts with YG Entertainment in March 2020, signaling a new era for the iconic group.
Fast forward to February 2022, YG Entertainment confirmed BIGBANG’s spring comeback as a four-member group. This announcement came with a significant update: T.O.P.’s contract with YG Entertainment had expired, and he would not be renewing it. While YG initially stated that he would still be able to participate in BIGBANG activities even after leaving the company, the waters were about to get clearer, or perhaps, a bit more poignant.
The release of BIGBANG’s new single, “Still Life,” on April 5, 2022, coincided with T.O.P.’s official departure from both YG Entertainment and the group. This marked a profound turning point, as he transitioned from a foundational member of one of K-Pop’s most influential groups to an independent artist. Fans eagerly awaited to see what new paths he would forge, knowing his artistic spirit was boundless.
In a heartfelt Instagram post in 2023, T.O.P. personally confirmed his departure from BIGBANG, telling his followers, “I already told you guys I’m leaving since last year, and I’m now facing a new chapter in my life.” He later described his relationship with the members as “separated family,” expressing his heartache over fans’ expectations for a BIGBANG reunion and his feeling that he should bear the criticism alone, which led to his decision to leave. His resolve to pursue an independent artistic journey remains steadfast, proving that even iconic groups can evolve in unexpected ways.
12. **The Global Comeback: ‘Squid Game 2’ and Thanos**
Just when we thought we had T.O.P. all figured out, he pulled off another incredible act of reinvention! In June 2023, the entertainment world buzzed with the thrilling news of his casting in Netflix’s highly anticipated “Squid Game 2.” This wasn’t just any role; he was set to portray a character named ‘Thanos,’ known as #230, marking his grand return to the acting scene after a significant hiatus and navigating his personal storms.
The anticipation for “Squid Game 2” was, and still is, astronomical, following the global phenomenon of its first season. T.O.P.’s involvement immediately garnered massive international attention, placing him squarely back in the global spotlight. His choice to join such a high-profile, globally recognized series signaled a powerful and confident comeback, showcasing his readiness to embrace new challenges and redefine his public persona.
The series finally premiered globally on December 26, 2024, bringing T.O.P.’s intense and unique acting style to millions of viewers worldwide. His portrayal of ‘Thanos’ offered a fresh opportunity to connect with a new generation of fans and re-engage with long-time supporters who had eagerly awaited his return to dramatic roles. It was a strategic and impactful move, proving his global appeal remains as strong as ever.
13. **Navigating the Critiques: Korean vs. International Reception**
Upon the global release of “Squid Game 2,” T.O.P.’s performance as ‘Thanos’ sparked a fascinating dichotomy in reception. Korean media and netizens, influenced by past controversies, were quick to criticize his acting, with some even going as far as to suggest he should “apologize to the world’s viewers.” It was a tough re-entry into the Korean public sphere, demonstrating the persistent challenges he faces at home.
However, the international reception painted a dramatically different picture. In an official Netflix poll asking viewers about their favorite new character in “Squid Game 2,” T.O.P.’s ‘Thanos’ character astonishingly garnered 50% of the votes from 700,000 participants, ranking number one. This overwhelming support from overseas audiences highlighted a clear divergence in public opinion, proving his international star power remained undimmed.
International media, like ‘Business Insider,’ lauded his portrayal, calling ‘Thanos’ “one of the best villains of the year” and noting his unsettling joy in bloody challenges. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk himself clarified the casting, stating that T.O.P. was “the best-performing candidate” during auditions and that he wasn’t cast out of personal connection or to aid a comeback. He even anticipated that ‘Thanos’ would be more beloved by overseas audiences, a true testament to T.O.P.’s captivating performance.
Despite the intense domestic pressure that led him to skip any promotional activities for “Squid Game 2” in Korea, T.O.P. actively engaged with his global fanbase through his personal social media. This strategic move allowed him to directly acknowledge the international praise and connect with those who appreciated his artistry, further solidifying his global appeal and demonstrating his determination to carve his own path forward, irrespective of local sentiment.
14. **A New Dawn: Independent Artistry and Future Endeavors**
In a landmark moment for his career, T.O.P. finally broke an 11-year public interview silence (his last being for the film ‘Tazza 2’ in 2014) in January 2025. Hosted by Netflix, this highly anticipated press conference in Seoul attracted an impressive 70 to 80 media outlets, all eager to hear his perspective. The full interview, released with a strict embargo, marked a significant step in his candid re-engagement with the public, laying bare his thoughts and feelings.
During this revealing interview, T.O.P. spoke openly about the daunting choice to portray ‘Thanos,’ acknowledging how the character eerily mirrored aspects of his own past he would rather keep hidden. He confessed to an initial fear of being typecast but ultimately felt a sense of destiny pushing him towards the role. Crucially, he credited Director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s trust, highlighting that the director was the first person in nearly a decade to actively reach out to him, giving him the courage to take on the challenging part.
This comeback wasn’t just about acting; it was about personal redemption and renewed purpose. T.O.P. expressed his deep commitment to repaying that trust with stellar performance, describing it as another vital mission in his life. He also shared his resolve to live a “solid and healthy life” moving forward, acknowledging his past mistakes and his journey from rock bottom. This interview served as a powerful declaration of his commitment to independent artistry and a healthier future.
Amidst his acting resurgence, rumors of T.O.P. rejoining BIGBANG resurfaced in February 2025. However, his representatives swiftly denied these claims, reiterating his consistent stance from recent interviews. He eloquently described BIGBANG as “separated family,” admitting his heartache over fans’ longing for a reunion and his guilt over the pain he felt he caused the members. He steadfastly affirmed his decision to bear the criticism alone and his unwavering commitment to his independent path, solidifying his role as a solo artist ready to explore new frontiers.
Read more about: Beyond the Stage: 11 Unseen Revolutions That Forged Rock Music’s Soul
This comprehensive journey through T.O.P.’s life reminds us that true artistry transcends boundaries, withstands storms, and continually reinvents itself. From the electrifying stages of BIGBANG to the nuanced intensity of “Squid Game 2,” his story is one of audacious talent, unwavering resilience, and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. He’s not just an idol; he’s a living testament to the power of reinvention, a collector of art and experiences, and an artist who continues to surprise, inspire, and captivate audiences worldwide. Here’s to T.O.P., a true icon who always dares to challenge the status quo and carve his own extraordinary path.
