“Squid Game” creator Hwang Dong-hyuk recently admitted that he was stunned by the backlash he received after casting former BIGBANG member T.O.P in the second season of the show.
In a recent interview where he was asked about the rapper, real name Choi Seung-hyun, Hwang said that he did have some hesitation at first about the casting due to T.O.P’s past issue of substance abuse.
“Although I personally cannot be sure whether this decision is correct, this incident happened a long time ago and he has been punished by the law. It is not uncommon for artistes to make a comeback after marijuana incidents. There have been many similar cases in the past,” he said.
Hwang said that after careful consideration, he truly believed that T.O.P was ready to return to work based on his personal judgment.
Stressing that he has very strict standards, the showrunner said that he was impressed by T.O.P’s will and hard work, as well as his sincere attitude.
“I understand the doubts of the outside world, but this is the trust that I have established after many exchanges with him. I hope everyone will give their feedback after the work comes out. The work will eventually prove the value of the choice,” he added.
The second season of “Squid Game” will be launched on 26 December.
(Photo Source: Korea JoongAng Daily, Fandomwire)