Say it isn’t so! Just moments ago, it was revealed that Choi Seung Hyun (최승현) or better known as T.O.P from BIGBANG has departed from his agency YG Entertainment.
The announcement regarding the rapper’s departure from the music label came amidst the exciting news of the group’s long-awaited comeback. It is said that BIGBANG will be making their comeback as a four-member group sometime around spring.
YGE revealed in their official statement today (Monday, 7th February), “BIGBANG will be releasing a new song this spring.” They then added, “They have already completed recording (for) their new song, and they are currently preparing to shoot the music video.”
In addition, it was also announced that T.O.P’s contract with YGE has come to an end, and he will be leaving the company after 16 years. “T.O.P’s exclusive contract with YG has ended, and he will be taking on a wide variety of new challenges as both an artist and an entrepreneur,” the label stated.
“We respected T.O.P’s desire to broaden the scope of his individual activities aside from just his promotions with BIGBANG, and he had successfully come to an agreement about this with the remaining members. As long as the conditions are right, T.O.P will always participate in BIGBANG’s activities whenever he is able,” YGE further added.
BIGBANG’s upcoming comeback will mark their K-pop king’s new music in four years. Their last single, “Flower Road”, was released in March 2018. This will also be their first music release since the departure of former member, Seungri.
Update (Tuesday, 8th February):
Following the news regarding T.O.P’s departure from YG Entertainment, an old IG Live broadcast by the idol became a hot topic of discussion. Back in February 2020, T.O.P held a live broadcast on his Instagram, giving an update to his fans on what he had been up to (at that time).
During the session, T.O.P was asked to share his thoughts on making a comeback in South Korea. He responded, “I won’t do a comeback in Korea. I don’t want to make a comeback at all. If I do, more articles will be made but they won’t let me say anything. My friends all kick me (to not say anything).”
He continued by revealing, “I’ve been making my own music. People are awful. Let’s love. Peace.” Apparently, this comment was made in response to the backlash he was facing after the news about his substance abuse made the headlines back in 2016.
Whatever happens, we hope all V.I.Ps out there will respect the decision made by T.O.P in regards to his future career. We wish you all the best!
Source: Soompi.
