Remember the ’00s? Get ready to take a wild ride back to an era where music, fashion, and culture were irrevocably shaped by a true icon! We’re talking about none other than T.O.P, the multi-talented force who didn’t just make waves; he orchestrated a tsunami, becoming an absolute sultan of rhyme who conquered digital charts and redefined what it meant to be a global superstar.
From his unmistakable deep voice that commanded attention to his captivating presence on screen, T.O.P, born Choi Seung-Hyun, brought a unique blend of artistry to every endeavor. He wasn’t just a rapper; he was a trailblazer who effortlessly crossed genres, leaving an indelible mark on K-Pop, film, and even the art world. His journey is a testament to raw talent, relentless ambition, and an unwavering commitment to creative expression, making him a true legend in every sense of the word.
Join us as we dive deep into the first half of T.O.P’s incredible story, exploring the formative years that honed his skills, the groundbreaking moments that propelled him to international fame, and the surprising passions that reveal the multifaceted genius behind the stage name. It’s a journey filled with unforgettable beats, dramatic performances, and a dash of unexpected sophistication!
1. **Early Life & Underground Rapper Roots**Before he was the T.O.P we all know and love, Choi Seung-Hyun was born on November 4, 1987, in Seoul, South Korea. Growing up with his parents and an older sister, it seems an artistic inclination might have been in his DNA, as his family has deep roots in the arts. However, from a young age, his personal dream wasn’t to follow directly in their footsteps in traditional art forms, but rather to dominate the world of hip-hop.
He harbored a powerful aspiration: to become a rapper. This wasn’t just a passing fancy; it was a deeply ingrained ambition that led him to immerse himself in the underground hip-hop scene. Performing under the stage name TEMPO, he became a familiar face and voice in various clubs, honing his craft and developing the distinctive flow and charisma that would later make him a household name.
What many might not realize is the sheer dedication T.O.P poured into his passion before stepping into the mainstream spotlight. He wasn’t an overnight sensation; he was a product of relentless practice and immersion, boasting an impressive four years of underground experience as a professional rapper even before his official debut. This foundational period was crucial in shaping the artist he would become, giving him a depth and authenticity that few could match.
His time as TEMPO was more than just a stepping stone; it was a proving ground where he forged his identity as an artist. The raw energy and unpolished talent cultivated in those underground clubs provided the perfect launchpad for the stratospheric rise that was just around the corner, demonstrating that his journey to the top was built on a solid foundation of genuine skill and passion.
Read more about: Assata Shakur, Convicted Revolutionary and Iconic Figure of Black Liberation, Dies at 78 in Cuban Exile
2. **BIGBANG Debut & Rise to Stardom**In 2006, the world was introduced to a new phenomenon through a survival documentary program called “BIGBANG Debut Documentary,” which aired in Korea in July of that year. It was through this intense process that Choi Seung-Hyun was meticulously chosen as one of the founding members of what would become one of the most influential K-Pop groups of all time: BIGBANG.
The group officially burst onto the scene on August 19, 2006, at the YG Family 10th Anniversary Concert held at the Seoul Olympic Gymnastics Arena. This debut wasn’t just another performance; it was a declaration, signaling the arrival of a group that would revolutionize the industry. T.O.P, with his commanding presence and distinctive deep-toned rap, immediately stood out among his peers, leaving an unforgettable impression on early fans and critics alike.
Right from the start, T.O.P showcased his unique talent, delivering his very first individual solo song, “Big Boy,” which was featured on BIGBANG’s debut regular album, “BIGBANG Vol.1.” This early solo track was a powerful demonstration of his vocal prowess and lyrical capabilities, setting him apart as a formidable force within the group and hinting at the incredible solo career he would later pursue.
BIGBANG’s debut marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success and global recognition. T.O.P, as a core member, played a pivotal role in the group’s rise to superstardom, contributing his distinct rapping style and charismatic stage presence to countless hit songs and performances. This formative period not only cemented his status as a K-Pop idol but also laid the groundwork for his future explorations into acting and other creative endeavors.
3. **Solo Music Career: “Turn It Up” & “DOOM DADA”**While T.O.P was an indispensable part of BIGBANG’s collective success, he also cultivated a vibrant solo music career that allowed him to express his individual artistic vision with striking originality. His first major solo offering, the single “Turn It Up,” was unleashed on June 17, 2010. This track was a powerful statement of his independent artistry, with T.O.P not only taking full responsibility for the lyrics but also co-composing the song alongside the renowned producer Teddy.
“Turn It Up” quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for its unique sound and T.O.P’s signature flow, which showcased a different facet of his musical identity distinct from his group work. It was a bold declaration of his versatility and an exciting glimpse into the depth of his creative capabilities as a solo artist, firmly establishing his credibility beyond the group’s established sound.
Three years later, T.O.P delivered another monumental solo single, “DOOM DADA,” which was officially released on November 15, 2013. This track was an even more profound exploration of his distinctive style, with T.O.P once again independently crafting the lyrics and co-composing the music, this time with Choice37. “DOOM DADA” wasn’t just a song; it was an artistic experience, blending avant-garde visuals with a compelling sonic landscape.
The impact of “DOOM DADA” was immediate and undeniable. Upon its release, the song soared to the top of real-time charts across multiple prominent South Korean music platforms, including Melon, NaverMusic, Olleh, Bugs, Mnet, Genie, and Monkey3. This chart-topping success solidified T.O.P’s standing as a formidable solo artist capable of captivating a wide audience with his innovative and thought-provoking music, proving that his individual creative ventures were just as potent as his group activities.
4. **Actor Choi Seung-Hyun: Early TV Roles (I Am Teacher, IRIS)**Beyond his musical prowess, Choi Seung-Hyun quickly demonstrated a natural aptitude for acting, transitioning seamlessly between the stage and the screen. His initial foray into the visual arts wasn’t in a drama, but rather in a music video, making his debut as an MV protagonist in senior singer Red Roc’s “Hello” on July 11, 2007. It was a pivotal moment that caught the eye of a powerful industry figure.
YG Entertainment CEO Yang Hyun-suk, upon seeing a particular scene where T.O.P shaved his head for the video, recognized an innate performance talent within him. This keen observation by the CEO opened the door to Choi Seung-Hyun’s acting career, setting him on a path that would see him garner critical acclaim and popular adoration for his dramatic roles.
His official television drama debut came with the KBS series “I Am Teacher” in 2007, where he portrayed the character Chae Mu-sin. This early role presented a unique challenge for T.O.P; his natural speaking style, often infused with the rhythm and body language of a rapper, required considerable adjustment. He put in significant effort to modify his dialogue delivery and even his walking posture to fully embody the character, showcasing his dedication to his new craft.
Two years later, he took on a more intense role in the 2009 KBS drama “IRIS,” playing B.I.G, a formidable assassin working for the secret organization IRIS. To fully immerse himself in the character’s dark and solitary emotional landscape, T.O.P revealed he adopted a method acting approach, changing his personal fashion style from hip-hop to a killer aesthetic and often acting alone. His commitment to the role truly demonstrated his potential as a serious actor, paving the way for more significant film roles. In between these, he also appeared in the micro-film “My Nineteen” as Seo Jung-hoon on November 11, 2009, distributed by CJ Entertainment.
5. **Film Success: “Commitment” (The Classmate)**Following his success in “71-Into the Fire,” Choi Seung-Hyun continued to build an impressive filmography, further cementing his status as a versatile and compelling actor. His next significant cinematic project was “Commitment,” directed by Park Hong-soo and distributed by Showbox, which premiered in South Korea on November 6, 2013. The film quickly gained international attention, releasing in Taiwan on December 20, in Hong Kong on January 2, 2014, under the title “The Classmate,” and in Japan on January 25, 2014.
In “Commitment,” T.O.P tackled another complex and demanding role, portraying Lee Myung-hoon, the son of a former North Korean spy. After his father’s mission ends in failure, Myung-hoon is assigned a perilous new identity, posing as a North Korean defector named Kang Dae-ho and infiltrating South Korea as an assassin. This role required intense physical and emotional commitment, allowing T.O.P to showcase his growing capabilities as an action actor.
He poured an immense amount of effort into embodying the character of Lee Myung-hoon, revealing in an interview, “For over a year, when I wasn’t working, I tried my best not to interact with the outside world.” This deep immersion allowed him to fully inhabit the solitary and conflicted world of his character. His dedication paid off, with his powerful performance, particularly in the demanding action sequences, highlighting his potential as a formidable martial arts performer.
His outstanding performance in “Commitment” did not go unnoticed by critics and industry professionals. Choi Seung-Hyun was honored with the Best New Actor award at the prestigious 18th Busan International Film Festival, a significant accolade that further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the Korean film industry. This recognition underscored his ability to select impactful roles and deliver memorable performances, proving he was much more than just a pop idol.
6. **Art Collector & Guest Curator for Sotheby’s**Beyond the glitz of the stage and the drama of the screen, Choi Seung-Hyun harbors a deeply personal and sophisticated passion that might surprise some: art. He was, in fact, born into a distinguished art family, which undoubtedly nurtured his aesthetic sensibilities from a young age. His great-granduncle, Kim Whanki, was a renowned abstract artist, while his maternal grandfather, Seo Geun-bae, hailed from Mokpo City as a novelist. Even his mother and older sister pursued art as their major, establishing a strong artistic lineage.
His journey into art collection began quite early, in his early twenties, when he started accumulating design furniture, with a particular fondness for chairs. Over time, his passion expanded to include paintings and sculptures, building a diverse and impressive private collection. For T.O.P, art is more than just a hobby; he has openly stated that he has found immense solace in art since childhood, and his art collection has become a vital source for achieving balance in his life.
In a remarkable recognition of his expertise and passion, T.O.P was invited to serve as a guest curator for Sotheby’s Hong Kong on October 3, 2016. He helmed a themed auction titled “#TTTOP,” where he meticulously selected a collection of contemporary artworks from both Eastern and Western artists. This prestigious role allowed him to share his discerning eye with the global art community, further showcasing his profound understanding and appreciation for the visual arts.
Moreover, his involvement with Sotheby’s wasn’t merely for personal prestige. A portion of the proceeds from the “#TTTOP” auction was generously donated to the Asian Cultural Council, with the noble aim of nurturing emerging artists across Asia. This philanthropic endeavor underscored his commitment not only to collecting art but also to fostering new talent and contributing to the broader artistic landscape, cementing his reputation as a true patron of the arts.
7. **Red Wine Business: T’SPOT**Wow, talk about a man of many talents! Just when you thought T.O.P couldn’t possibly add another fascinating skill to his resume, he went and became a wine mogul! Back in 2017, he shared truly exciting news with the world: he had purchased a vineyard in Argentina. Imagine, T.O.P, meticulously overseeing grape harvests under the South American sun – it’s a whole new vibe for the multi-hyphenate artist!
This wasn’t just a casual side hustle; it was a full-blown passion project that evolved into something incredible. His vineyard was set to produce approximately eight thousand bottles of red wine annually, which is a seriously impressive output for any boutique winery. The anticipation for this venture grew, and fans were eager to taste a piece of T.O.P’s personal touch.
Fast forward to December 2022, and his personal brand, T’SPOT, officially uncorked its first bottles! These exquisite wines, including a Bordeaux red from the acclaimed French winery “Thunevin” (2018 vintage), a sparkling wine, a 2023 white wine, and a delightful rosé sparkling wine, became readily available in major South Korean department stores like Lotte and Hyundai. But wait, there’s more – T’SPOT’s official website even offers overseas delivery to places like France, the United States, Singapore, Japan, and Taiwan. So, if you’re craving a taste of T.O.P’s carefully curated collection, it’s just a click away, making dreams accessible worldwide!
8. **Military Enlistment & Public Controversies**But like any great saga, T.O.P’s journey also faced its share of challenging chapters, proving that even idols aren’t immune to life’s tough tests. In February 2017, he began his mandatory military enlistment, a period that unfortunately became marked by significant public controversy. It was a tough time, and fans around the world watched with bated breath as events unfolded.
Just a few months into his service, in June 2017, news broke that T.O.P was being investigated and subsequently indicted for smoking marijuana. The reports detailed four instances of use between October 9 and 14, 2016, with a female trainee. The revelation sent shockwaves through the Korean public and his global fanbase, leading to widespread discussion and a noticeable shift in his public image. The legal proceedings resulted in his removal from the Seoul Auxiliary Police, and he was reassigned to the Seoul Yongsan Crafts Museum to complete his remaining military service as a social service worker.
The events took an even more alarming turn on June 6, when T.O.P was found unconscious and rushed to a hospital after overdosing on prescribed benzodiazepines. Initial police statements downplayed the severity, but the hospital’s press conference swiftly refuted this, detailing a dangerous state with respiratory failure and high carbon dioxide levels, even considering intubation. This harrowing period sparked an incredible wave of support, with the hashtag #StayStrongTOP trending globally. Ultimately, on July 20, 2017, T.O.P was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, along with a fine of 12,000 Korean won, bringing a legal close to this difficult chapter. He quietly completed his service, finally discharged in July 2019, choosing to meet waiting fans by shaking hands and expressing gratitude.
9. **The Ambitious ‘Dear Moon’ Project**After navigating such turbulent times, T.O.P set his sights quite literally on the moon! In September 2018, an incredibly ambitious and mind-blowing project was announced: the ‘Dear Moon’ project. This wasn’t just any space mission; it was a lunar tourism and art venture conceptualized and funded by Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa. It aimed to take a group of artists and creatives on a private spaceflight aboard a SpaceX Starship for a circumlunar orbit around the moon!
And guess who was chosen as one of the eight lucky crew members to embark on this free, six-day journey around our celestial neighbor? Our very own T.O.P, alongside an eclectic group that included renowned DJ Steve Aoki and other artists. Maezawa’s vision was truly inspiring: he believed the experience of space travel would ignite the crew’s creative passion, with their resulting artworks later exhibited to promote world peace. What an epic way to blend art, exploration, and a touch of intergalactic swagger!
However, even the most ambitious dreams can face earthly delays. The project, initially scheduled for a launch around 2023, faced postponements due to the ongoing development of SpaceX’s Starship, leading to increasing uncertainty. Unfortunately, on June 1, 2024, the official ‘Dear Moon’ account delivered the heartbreaking news: the mission had been canceled. Maezawa explained the difficult decision, citing indefinite launch delays and his inability to keep members waiting, though T.O.P still embodied his resilient spirit, declaring that “the dream is not over.”
Read more about: Quincy Jones, the Master Orchestrator Whose Boundless Influence Reshaped Global Music and Entertainment, Dies at 91
10. **Departure from BIGBANG & New Chapter**T.O.P’s journey took another significant turn as he stepped into a new chapter, distinct from his iconic group, BIGBANG. In January 2020, YG Entertainment confirmed BIGBANG would make a highly anticipated comeback as a four-member group at Coachella, generating immense excitement before the festival was sadly canceled due to COVID-19. Despite this setback, hope lingered when all BIGBANG members renewed their contracts in March 2020, signaling preparations for new music and a continued future together, with YG confirming another four-member comeback for spring 2022.
The much-anticipated moment arrived on April 5, 2022, with the release of BIGBANG’s new single, “Still Life”. However, this comeback also marked a pivotal moment for T.O.P. It was then that his contract with YG Entertainment officially expired, and he publicly announced his departure from both the company and the group. YG Entertainment issued a statement, respecting his decision and acknowledging that he could still participate in BIGBANG activities even after leaving the agency.
The full scope of his decision became clearer in 2023 when T.O.P personally confirmed his exit from BIGBANG on Instagram, sharing that he was “facing a new chapter” in his life. Then, in February 2025, amidst rumors of a potential return, his associates firmly denied any such plans, clarifying that his social media handle “TOP” was simply his existing stage name.
He bravely admitted, “I already brought too much harm to the members. I feel that I should bear the criticism myself, which is why I left the group. Because I felt so ashamed, it’s hard to contact the members frankly even now. My resolve to leave BIGBANG remains unchanged.” This poignant statement truly captures the depth of his reflections and his unwavering commitment to forging his own path while shouldering his past burdens. It’s a powerful testament to his character and his desire for a genuine new beginning.
11. **Powerful Acting Comeback with ‘Squid Game 2’**After such profound personal and professional shifts, the entertainment world eagerly awaited T.O.P’s next move, and boy, did he deliver! On June 29, 2023, Netflix made a blockbuster announcement: Choi Seung-Hyun was among the new cast members for the highly anticipated “Squid Game 2.” The global premiere on December 26, 2024, thrust T.O.P back into the international spotlight in a major way as he took on the compelling role of Thanos, player #230.
However, the reception was initially a tale of two different worlds. In South Korea, local media and netizens were quick to criticize his performance, with some harsh headlines even demanding, “T.O.P, please apologize to the world’s audience.” It seemed that the shadow of past controversies still loomed large for some domestic viewers. But hold onto your popcorn, because the international response painted a completely different picture!
Overseas, T.O.P’s portrayal of Thanos was met with resounding praise. Netflix’s official accounts even conducted a poll asking viewers to choose their favorite new character from “Squid Game 2,” and T.O.P’s Thanos absolutely dominated, securing a staggering 50% of the votes from 700,000 participants! Major international outlets like *Business Insider* lauded Thanos as “one of the most mentioned characters” and celebrated him as “one of the best villains of the year.” This unexpected international acclaim proved that his talent transcends borders, offering a powerful validation of his acting prowess.
To clarify the casting decision amidst the Korean backlash, Director Hwang Dong-hyuk himself stepped forward. He emphatically stated that T.O.P was chosen because he was “the best candidate” after multiple auditions, and not “to help him make a comeback.” The director even revealed that he had anticipated Thanos would be more beloved by international audiences. Despite the intense Korean public pressure, which reportedly led to T.O.P not participating in any official promotional activities for “Squid Game 2,” he actively engaged with fans through his personal social media. His role as Thanos didn’t just revitalize his acting career; it forged a new, powerful connection with a global audience, defining an exhilarating new chapter!
12. **The Big Interview & Personal Reflections**The incredible buzz from “Squid Game 2” led to a truly monumental event: T.O.P’s first public interview in 11 years! Netflix dropped the exciting news on January 10, 2025, that he’d finally meet reporters. This highly anticipated session happened on January 15 at a Seoul café, drawing 70-80 media outlets, with the full, highly-guarded content releasing January 16. It was a huge deal, marking his return to public dialogue since 2014.
What he shared was raw, honest, and deeply moving. T.O.P spoke openly about playing Thanos: “To appear as Thanos was a daunting choice… This character mirrored my past, reflecting parts that I would rather hide.” He confessed fearing being typecast but felt “fate seemed to push me.” He then thanked Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who was the first to contact him in nearly a decade, offering a lifeline when he felt forgotten. T.O.P felt a duty to repay this trust, making “excelling in acting” a crucial life mission.
In this pivotal interview, T.O.P also made a heartfelt promise: to live a “down-to-earth and healthy life” after acknowledging past mistakes that led him to “fall to the bottom of his life’s valley.” His candor and dedication to growth truly shone, showcasing an artist committed to personal redemption and a meaningful future.
Read more about: From Disney Channel Tongues to Sweet Serendipity: What Zac Efron’s Co-Stars Really Say About Kissing Him
And there you have it, an incredible journey through the life and times of T.O.P, a true chameleon of the entertainment world! From his early days spitting rhymes in underground clubs to conquering global music charts with BIGBANG, then seamlessly transitioning into an award-winning actor whose dramatic performances resonate across screens, and even becoming a sophisticated art curator and innovative wine entrepreneur, T.O.P has consistently pushed boundaries. His path has been marked by dazzling highs, profound personal challenges, and an unwavering commitment to creative expression, leading him to bravely embrace new ventures like the ‘Dear Moon’ project and his powerful comeback in ‘Squid Game 2’. T.O.P’s story is a vivid reminder that true artistry knows no bounds, constantly evolving, inspiring, and leaving an indelible mark on culture. He’s not just a legend; he’s a living testament to resilience, passion, and the endless pursuit of artistic excellence. Get ready to keep watching, because this sultan of rhyme and master of reinvention is clearly just getting started!
