According to sources in the sector, the album has already been recorded and is expected to be released in October. In addition to the album, Top is destined to shoot multiple music videos under the creative direction of Chae Kyoung Sun, the famous artistic director and production designer behind Play of squid. Chae is a figure decorated in the sector, having won prestigious awards including the prizes of the Guild of Art Directors (2022, 2025) and an Emmy Primetime in 2022 for exceptional production design.
The rumors about the return of top had been circulating for some time. In November 2024, the rapper mentioned his plans through Instagram, responding with a simple “2025” when he was asked for future solo activities. The confirmation came in June of this year during an interview for the international press for Squid Game 2Where Top said that his solo project would actually be released in 2025.
Since it is separating with YG Entertainment and officially released in Bigbang in 2021, Top has remained without a sign. Although speculation has connected it to a potential agreement with Kakao Entertainment, one of the greatest conglomerates of entertainment of South Korea, the company has denied any ongoing negotiation.
The next album marks a significant milestone in Top’s return to career, especially after years marked by personal and professional turbulence. In 2016, he was sentenced to 10 months in prison (suspended for two years) for the use of marijuana during his mandatory military service. His remaining service was converted into an alternative form of public service and the scandal led to a temporary retirement announcement, which later went back. He made his recitative return at the beginning of this year with a role in Squid Game 2.
In a candid interview of January 2025, Top reflected on his journey:
“At twenty, I was lucky enough to receive so much love, but I also made serious mistakes that have left me broken. I still feel ashamed and I constantly remember myself to reflect on those mistakes”, he said.
However, music remains a source of strength. “Every time I enter the studio, I feel recharged. I worked incessantly, writing countless songs and now I think it’s time to finally share them with the world.”
With his new solo album on the horizon, fans are anxious to see what this next chapter reserves for one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures of K-pop.
Sources: Kenh14
