Although not actively promoting the film, T.O.P has consistently been the most mentioned name since the cast of Squid Game 2 was announced. Following the official release of the film, information surrounding T.O.P has become even more popular than ever. In the media, Korean audiences often criticize T.O.P’s acting skills and his role in the film, particularly as he takes on a character that is quite similar to his real-life persona.
Specifically, in the film, T.O.P plays Thanos, a rapper with a penchant for drugs. After being introduced by YouTuber Lee Myung Gi (played by Im Si Wan), Thanos enters the squid game with aspirations of winning it all, yet he is never serious about any game, always acting as a troublemaker, aggressive towards others, and flirting with women. There are many differing opinions; some praise his performance in the film, while a large portion of the audience feels that T.O.P’s acting has overshadowed the overall work.
In fact, before the show aired and due to T.O.P’s performance, he himself had been the subject of viewer speculation regarding his involvement due to his past issues with substance abuse. His previous behavior has raised serious concerns among audiences, leading many to believe that T.O.P shouldn’t have appeared in a globally popular film.
Recently, the South Korean site Tvreport published an article detailing T.O.P’s role in Squid Game 2. This article revealed that despite his limited screen time, T.O.P received a substantial paycheck of up to 300 million won (approximately $5,200) for his appearance. The article also touched on the relationship between T.O.P, the lead actor Lee Jung Jae, and director Hwang Dong Hyuk, stating: “There’s no way to escape the suspicion that the casting was influenced by personal relationships.” (quote sourced from Tvreport).
However, the details from Tvreport (though not confirmed by the parties involved) have sparked significant debate among netizens in South Korea. Many viewers feel that T.O.P’s high salary is completely unjustified. Not to mention, it raises questions about T.O.P’s status as a “rookie” actor among such an outstanding cast, leading K-netizens to feel that 300 million won is excessively high. If we are to consider the payment as a reward for fame, it also doesn’t seem reasonable, given that T.O.P is not currently one of the hottest names in Korea.
Viewer comments:
– It’s hard to say that the producers are being unreasonable when this salary is clearly high…
– The amount is even higher than some A-list and S-list actors.
– Is it really worth it?
– If the performance is subpar, then he shouldn’t accept such a high salary as the producers have already given him the opportunity to learn.
Squid Game 2 picks up two years after the conclusion of season one. The film follows Gi Hun (Lee Jung Jae) as he seeks a way to reclaim his life amidst the deadly games, aiming to uncover the truth about the organization behind the violent game.
Source: Tvreport
