T.O.P returns to music after 12 years, joins hands with Squid Game creator

T.O.P prepares long-awaited solo comeback

Former Big Bang member T.O.P is preparing his first solo album in 12 years, with release set for the final quarter of this year.

Industry sources said on Tuesday that the rapper has completed recording and will film several music videos with Chae Kyoung-sun, the award-winning art director behind Netflix hit Squid Game.

T.O.P, who left YG Entertainment in 2021, has been without an agency since. Reports suggest he is in talks with Kakao Entertainment to manage his solo activities, though the company has denied finalising a deal.

The upcoming project will be T.O.P’s first major release since his 2013 single Doom Dada. His comeback follows his acting role in Squid Game 2 earlier this year.

The rapper hinted at a solo return in November 2024 when he replied “2025” to a fan on Instagram. He later confirmed the plan in June during promotions for Squid Game 2.

In past interviews, T.O.P acknowledged personal struggles that stalled his career. He faced legal issues in 2016 after being convicted for marijuana use while serving mandatory duty as a police officer.

Reflecting on that period in January, he said: “In my twenties, I received so much love but made huge mistakes and collapsed mentally. I still feel ashamed and believe I must always reflect on those mistakes.”

“Whenever I am in the studio, I feel alive,” he added. “I have created a lot of music and believe the time has come to share it with the world.”