TOP Excluded from 'Squid Game 2' Interviews Amid Controversy

Singer and actor TOP (real name Choi Seung-hyun), formerly of BIGBANG, will not participate in the interview schedule for 'Squid Game 2'. Following his absence from the poster and the production press conference, his absence from the interviews has raised eyebrows. On December 20, Netflix announced the list of actors participating in round interviews to celebrate the release of 'Squid Game 2'. The confirmed cast includes Lee Jung-jae, Park Gyu-young, Yang Dong-geun, Lee Seo-hwan, Wi Ha-jun, Kang Ae-sim, Lee Byung-hun, Park Sung-hoon, Im Si-wan, and Jo Yu-ri, along with director Hwang Dong-hyuk. While the main cast is set to participate in interviews, TOP's name is notably missing. Since announcing his involvement in 'Squid Game 2', he has only appeared in the trailer and has not made any public appearances. 'Squid Game 2' promises a thrilling narrative of revenge as Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) returns to the game, facing off against the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) in a fierce battle. The series is highly anticipated, returning nearly three years after the first season. However, some viewers have expressed discomfort with TOP's casting due to his past legal issues, including a 2016 conviction for marijuana use, which led to a 10-month prison sentence and two years of probation. This controversy has led to questions about his suitability for the role. TOP's absence from the press conference on December 9 and the recent poster has fueled speculation that he may be excluded from promotional activities for 'Squid Game 2'. In response to these concerns, a representative clarified to OSEN that the interviews were primarily arranged for the cast members who attended the press conference. When asked if there might be a possibility for TOP to participate in interviews later, they stated that discussions are still needed. 'Squid Game 2' is set to premiere on December 26, with all episodes available for streaming.