T.O.P, who left BIGBANG and made a fresh start as a solo artist, has shared messages of support for his former BIGBANG members through a local Japanese interview.
In an interview broadcast on TV Asahi Channel 1 on the 12th, T.O.P was asked, "How did you feel when you first heard the news that BIGBANG's world tour would begin in August for the first time in nine years?" He replied, "From now on, I plan to continue my activities as a solo artist, and while I won't be performing with them on the same stage, I will always root for and support the activities and music of the BIGBANG members."
When asked, "What became your greatest source of strength during your temporary hiatus from activities?", he emphasized, "Going through a very dark period that I had never experienced before, I believe that darkness actually helped me grow. While making music during that time, I started to feel the sensation of being alive again. I had nothing else I could do other than create and work on music, and as I continuously created new music, I felt like I was able to breathe each time. That is how I was able to stand back up."
Previously, T.O.P debuted as a member of BIGBANG in 2006 and continued group activities until his exclusive contract with YG Entertainment ended in 2022, after which he left the group to pursue individual activities. Following a long hiatus as a singer, he resumed his activities last April by releasing his first solo studio album, "ANOTHER DIMENSION". Currently, T.O.P is meeting Asian fans through his brand tour "T.O.P PRE-STUDIO 2026".
Meanwhile, celebrating their 20th debut anniversary, BIGBANG is meeting global fans through "BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR 'XX : COSMOS'".
kykang@sbs.co.kr
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)