On April 3, T.O.P released his first full-length solo album ANOTHER DIMENSION, marking his return to solo activities approximately 13 years after his last release in November 2013.
In this album, T.O.P openly mentions BIGBANG, his former group. In the track OVAYA, the lyrics include: “Leave behind my beautiful past, this is my statement / I’m so sorry but I loved ‘I have already graduated from BIGBANG.’”
Another track, Studio54, features the line: “I’m so sorry but I loved, my twenties BIGBANG / My fans, torn apart, scars all over.”
In the latter part of the song SELF CRUCIFIXION, T.O.P directly inserts audio clips referencing his past marijuana scandal, including news anchor reports and controversy surrounding his blocking of fans on social media.
The album has sparked divided interpretations among the public and the music industry. Some netizens criticize T.O.P for seemingly reframing his past mistakes—particularly the drug scandal that negatively impacted the group and his decision to block longtime fans—as “artistic suffering” or a “wounded soul narrative.”
Critics also point to his past statements, such as saying he would not return to the Korean entertainment industry, and his actions of removing traces of BIGBANG from his profiles, arguing that the lyrics reflect excessive self-justification.
On the other hand, some interpret the repeated phrase “I’m so sorry” as a sincere apology and expression of guilt toward both his former members and fans. In a past interview with a Hong Kong magazine, T.O.P stated, “I realized how much pain I caused to those around me, my family, and my fans.”
Amid ongoing debate, BIGBANG member Taeyang showed public support for T.O.P by sharing his new song on social media. This gesture has drawn attention, especially as it seemingly dismisses rumors of T.O.P rejoining the group for their 20th anniversary, while also suggesting that the members still respect him despite his independent path.
Early in the morning of April 4, G-Dragon also directly posted T.O.P’s album ANOTHER DIMENSION on his Instagram story to show support.
Fans also noticed that G-Dragon’s account “xxxibgdrgn” frequently “liked” posts related to T.O.P’s comeback, further signaling quiet encouragement.
Sources: Daum
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