T.O.P announces departure from Big Bang

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T.O.P announces departure from Big Bang

Published: 01 Jun. 2023, 10:55 Updated: 01 Jun. 2023, 16:22

Singer T.O.P, a former member of boy band Big Bang [NEWS1]

Singer T.O.P announced his departure from boy band Big Bang and said a solo music release is in the works.

"I've already withdrawn [from Big Bang]. I've already told [fans] that I'm leaving and I'm now facing a new chapter in my life since last year," he said, replying to a fan's question on Instagram.

T.O.P was also seen sharing stories about himself by media on Instagram, removing the name "Big Bang" from their headlines.

T.O.P released a statement on his Instagram in April 2022, shortly after he left YG Entertainment and established his one-man agency Topspot Pictures, saying, "[I] might be going through another important turning point of my life," after thanking the staff at YG Entertainment.

T.O.P had previously said he would return to Big Bang, situation permitting.

"If situations allow it, I will always join Big Bang's group activities," T.O.P said through his former agency YG Entertainment around the time of his departure last year.

T.O.P, whose real name is Choi Seung-hyun, debuted as a member of Big Bang in 2006, followed by his solo debut in 2010.

BY CHO YONG-JUN [cho.yongjun1@joongang.co.kr]