After years of public silence regarding BIGBANG’s past controversies, G-DRAGON has finally addressed the scandals surrounding former members Seungri and T.O.P.
In a candid interview on Son Suk Hee’s Questions aired on November 5, the K-pop icon reflected on his career, his role as BIGBANG’s leader, and the challenging moments that tested both him and the group.
Seungri and T.O.P’s departures from the group followed highly publicized controversies. Seungri was implicated in the Burning Sun scandal, which involved allegations of sexual misconduct and other legal issues, leading to intense scrutiny and criticism.
T.O.P faced drug-related charges and gradually distanced himself from the group, admitting later that he had not maintained contact with other members.
G-DRAGON’s Perspective on the Turmoil
During the interview, G-DRAGON spoke thoughtfully about the difficulties he experienced as the group navigated these turbulent times.
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He emphasized that while the controversies surrounding Seungri and T.O.P were widely publicized, they did not affect him personally as much as one might expect.
“Honestly, my members’ mistakes or personal matters are separate from me. But the hardest times as a leader were when I made mistakes and caused harm to the team.
Whether intentional or not, when situations like that happen, the entire team suffers — and that’s what hurt the most,” G-DRAGON said.
By reflecting on his own experiences rather than placing blame solely on former members, he highlighted the pressures and responsibilities of leadership, showing insight into the emotional toll of managing both a public image and a close-knit group.
Different Paths for Former Members
Since leaving the group, Seungri and T.O.P have taken very different paths. Seungri has continued to perform BIGBANG songs overseas, occasionally referencing G-DRAGON, which has sparked backlash among fans.
Meanwhile, T.O.P has largely stepped back from public appearances with the group, focusing on personal recovery and maintaining distance from former members.
This contrast has further complicated fans’ understanding of the group’s dynamics, making G-DRAGON’s neutral, self-reflective approach all the more notable.
Praise for Maturity and Empathy
Korean media and industry observers have praised G-DRAGON for his mature and measured response, calling it the first public acknowledgment of BIGBANG’s painful past.
Instead of assigning blame, he chose to focus on personal responsibility, showing empathy for both the fans and his former bandmates.
Many commentators highlighted how this approach reinforces G-DRAGON’s standing as one of K-pop’s most respected icons, not only for his artistry but also for his leadership, emotional intelligence, and professionalism in navigating complex situations.
Legacy and Moving Forward
As BIGBANG continues to maintain its status as one of K-pop’s legendary groups, G-DRAGON’s reflections serve as a reminder of the human challenges behind global fame.
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The group’s journey, including the controversies and personal trials of its members, demonstrates that even world-renowned idols face intense scrutiny and the weight of responsibility.
Fans have welcomed G-DRAGON’s honesty, seeing it as a sign of growth and a reaffirmation of his dedication to both the group and the wider BIGBANG legacy.
His willingness to address sensitive topics with candor and grace reinforces his lasting influence in the industry and sets a tone of accountability for the future.
