Choi Seung Hyun, aka T.O.P, former member of BIGBANG, is getting a lot of attention for his role in Squid Game 2, but the reactions are very different from local and international audiences.

The highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2, which hit Netflix on December 26, follows the intense battle between Gi-hun (played by Lee Jung Jae), who returns for revenge and to participate in the games once again, and Frontman (Lee Byung Hun), who is waiting for him. The season, as a follow-up to the global hit Squid Game, has created major buzz since production began.

However, the casting of Choi Seung Hyun for a key role in the show caused quite a stir in South Korea. The star, who had previously left BIGBANG due to a marijuana scandal and retired from the entertainment industry, faced backlash over his casting. His return to acting in Squid Game 2 became one of the most talked-about and criticized decisions.

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk defended Choi Seung Hyun’s casting at a press conference before the show’s release, saying, "It took a lot of courage for Choi Seung Hyun to take on this role. I believe he was the perfect fit." He added, "You may not understand my choice now, but after watching the show, you'll see why I insisted on casting him. It wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t easy for him either. I hope you judge him after seeing the work."

But when Squid Game 2 premiered, South Korean viewers were not impressed with Choi Seung Hyun's acting, especially his portrayal of Thanos, a character shown as a "drug addict." This portrayal led to a lot of negative feedback from the local audience.

Despite this, Director Hwang stood by his decision. In a People magazine interview on December 28, he praised Choi Seung Hyun’s performance, saying, "Even after a long break, I think he gave an impressive performance. I’m very satisfied with his work." This sparked even more criticism from domestic viewers, who were clearly not on the same page.

However, the international reaction to Choi Seung Hyun’s performance has been very different. Overseas audiences have praised his portrayal of Thanos, calling it one of the most memorable characters of Squid Game 2. Some international outlets even went so far as to name Thanos the standout role of the season, highlighting his realistic depiction of a "drug addict."

It seems that while domestic viewers have been tough on T.O.P's return to acting, international audiences are giving him the recognition he deserves.

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Kim Jae Joong couldn’t hold back his tears as he experienced an emotional moment with his father.

On April 4, the KBS 2TV show "New Menu Launching: Pyeon Restaurant" aired a heartwarming episode where Kim Jae Joong, the youngest of nine siblings, threw a special celebration for his parents’ 60th wedding anniversary.

The star took charge of everything—planning, organizing, and hosting the event—as a grand gesture to show his gratitude for everything his parents had done for him and his siblings.

Kim Jae Joong rented a luxurious banquet hall at a five-star hotel for the celebration. He made sure to select food that would please all of his family, including his parents and siblings.

With his large family in attendance, the venue was filled with love and joy. Kim Jae Joong’s nine siblings all bowed deeply to thank their parents for raising them, showing immense respect and love.

As his father saw all of his children gathered in one place, he couldn’t help but express his pride, saying, “Are all these really my children?” But his emotions quickly took a turn as he shared his feelings of regret. “I feel sorry that I couldn’t do better for you, I’m sorry I couldn’t do as much as others did. But I’m so thankful that you all grew up so well,” he said, with tears starting to form in his eyes.

It was the first time Kim Jae Joong had seen his father cry. Overcome with emotion, he said, “I know my father’s life very well, so I couldn’t help but cry too.” The entire family shared in the tears, shouting, “We love you, Dad,” creating an unforgettable moment that moved everyone to tears.

The touching episode aired on April 4 at 8:30 PM, showing viewers the deep love and gratitude Kim Jae Joong and his siblings have for their parents.

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