Director Hwang Dong Hyuk of 'Squid Game' recently spoke out regarding the casting controversy involving T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun), a former member of Big Bang. 

Season 2 of 'Squid Game' follows the story of 'Gi Hun' (Lee Jung Jae), who, after turning down an opportunity to go to the U.S., returns with new motivations. Cast members from Season 1, including Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, Wi Ha Joon, and Gong Yoo, return, joined by newcomers Lim Si Wan, Kang Ha Neul, Park Gyu Young, Lee Jin Wook, Park Sung Hoon, Yang Dong Geun, Kang Ae Shim, Lee Da Wit, T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun), Noh Jae Won, Cho Yuri, and Won Ji An.

The announcement of T.O.P’s casting sparked backlash, with some fans expressing discomfort due to his past legal issues and his previous statements about not returning to the entertainment industry. In 2017, T.O.P was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, for marijuana use, leading to his discharge from military service and a subsequent low profile on social media.

Hwang Dong Hyuk addressed the concerns, saying, “I didn’t expect this to become such a controversy. The incident happened a long time ago, and the sentence was completed. Many artists have returned after similar incidents, so I thought it might be an appropriate time for him to return to work. However, seeing so much public concern made me realize that I might have misjudged.”

Nonetheless, Hwang expressed his support for T.O.P, emphasizing, “He showed a strong commitment, and I personally oversaw his audition. He sent videos of his practice sessions and demonstrated effort and talent, even during script readings. The role he’s playing in Season 2 requires courage, and I felt he was the most suitable choice. While the decision has sparked controversy, I decided to move forward, as we had already invested time together.”

Addressing rumors about casting based on personal connections, Hwang said, “I’ve always been particular about casting actors who are genuinely suited for their roles, and I don’t cast based on friendship. Even during my early career, I regretted the one time I tried that approach. It’s a principle I adhere to, especially with a project like 'Squid Game,' where I’ve only cast actors I believe are right for the roles.”

'Squid Game' Season 2 is scheduled to release on December 26, 2024, with Season 3 expected in 2025.