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BIGBANG's T.O.P makes bold appearance at Netflix’s ‘Squid Game 3’ event in the US: ‘I couldn’t miss this’

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By Xportsnews
  • Published KST
Choi Seung-hyun / Captured from Choi's social media

Choi Seung-hyun / Captured from Choi's social media

Choi Seung-hyun, also known as T.O.P from the K-pop group BIGBANG, made a striking appearance at Netflix’s global fan event “TUDUM 2025” in Los Angeles, held at the Kia Forum on Saturday (local time).

The event is a global celebration where Netflix’s top stars and creators gather with fans to promote upcoming content. T.O.P joined “Squid Game” creator Hwang Dong-hyuk and cast members Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Park Sung-hoon and Kang Ae-shim to promote “Squid Game 3,” which is set to premiere on June 27.

T.O.P greeted the crowd with a playful tone. “You must be surprised to see me here,” he said, adding, “I couldn’t possibly miss out on an event this amazing. I’m here to give you a sneak peek at the new 'Squid Game 3.'"

Choi Seung-hyun / Captured from Choi's social media

Choi Seung-hyun / Captured from Choi's social media

Following greetings from Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun, T.O.P and Lee Jung-jae introduced the main trailer for “Squid Game 3” by counting down together in Korean: “Three, two, one.”

T.O.P also shared several photos from the event on his social media, giving fans a glimpse into his current activities.

In “Squid Game 3,” T.O.P plays the role of Thanos, a rapper who joins the deadly game after losing his fortune in a failed cryptocurrency investment. The series will follow Seong Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung-jae), who returns to the game with a personal mission, the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), who hides his identity while lurking within the game, and the remaining players fighting for survival.

T.O.P’s appearance in “Squid Game 3” is part of his return to the entertainment industry after a self-imposed hiatus following a 2017 marijuana controversy. After facing public backlash and criticism for his role in “Squid Game 2,” which premiered last December, T.O.P reflected on his return during a rare interview in January. “My heart felt heavy, and I’ve spent time reflecting and taking responsibility,” he said at the time.

This article from Xportsnews is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.