Celebrity Comebacks: T.O.P and Kwak Do-won Among Stars with Criminal Records Making Returns

The month of December sees a wave of familiar faces with DUI and drug convictions gracing both the big and small screens. Notably, Kwak Do-won is making his return in the film “Firefighters,”while Bae Seong-woo is set to star in “Light Shop,”and T.O.P is featured in “Squid Game”Season 2, all contributing to an impressive roster.

On October 17th, BY4M STUDIO officially confirmed that “Firefighters”will be hitting theaters this December. This film is based on the notorious 2001 arson incident in Hongje-dong, showcasing the heroic efforts of firefighters who battled intense challenges with the mission to extinguish the flames and save lives.

Initially shot in 2020 and set for release thereafter, “Firefighters”faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with Kwak Do-won’s DUI incident, which necessitated his withdrawal from the industry for a while. After four long years, the film is finally poised to debut.

Director Kwak Kyung-taek, known for his genuine portrayal of real events, is bringing this eagerly awaited film to the audience. The plot centers around the Western Fire Station’s response to the Hongje-dong blaze in 2001, and the film has already generated considerable buzz for its anticipated quality and gripping narrative.

However, the fallout from the pandemic and the lead actor’s careless decisions have led to a tarnished reputation, evoking sympathy from within the industry. As the film launches, many wonder whether a performer with a history of drunk driving can convincingly embody a “hero”and whether viewers will be able to dissociate the actor’s past from his on-screen persona.

The release of “Firefighters”has also sparked curiosity about the fate of Kwak Do-won’s other finished project, the TVING drama “Villains.”

Bae Seong-woo, having already made a notable comeback with the Netflix series “The 8 Show,”is gearing up for his next venture, “Light Shop.”This project is a collaboration with Kang Full, the acclaimed creator of the “Moving” webtoon.

Yet, Bae Seong-woo’s return is met with mixed feelings from the public, as many believe he secured his role due to “connections”following his DUI incident rather than his talent alone.

Bae was apprehended for driving under the influence in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, in November 2020 after having drinks with a friend. His blood alcohol content exceeded the legal limit of 0.08%, warranting the revocation of his driving license.

The incident led him to withdraw from all his commitments, making his return after a four-year hiatus with “The 8 Show.”Although a previously filmed project, “Road to Boston,”was released earlier, he did not engage in promotional events, resulting in a lackluster box office performance.

Reflecting on Bae’s casting, director Han Jae-rim of “The 8 Show”remarked that Bae was an excellent fit for the role. He further stated, “I have a personal bond with Bae Seong-woo and noted his genuine remorse following the DUI. I believe his dedication and sincerity make him ideal for this part. His skills in mime also align perfectly with what is needed for the character.”

This perspective was met with criticism, as it appeared to downplay the seriousness of DUI offenses, often considered criminal behaviors with severe implications.

His upcoming project is also set for digital release on Disney Plus. “Light Shop”tells the story of enigmatic customers visiting the titular shop, which illuminates the end of a shadowy alley. This series marks the fifth installation in Kang Full’s “Mystery Psychological Anecdote”collection, drawing from a webtoon that has captivated over 150 million readers.

Marking a transition in his career, actor Kim Hee-won is directing this series featuring Bae Seong-woo alongside a stellar cast that includes Joo Ji-hoon, Park Bo-young, and others. Given that this is a follow-up to “Moving,”which explored a superhero narrative, this new venture may also attract scrutiny.

“Light Shop” will comprise eight episodes, with the first four set to premiere on December 4th, followed by two episodes each week for the subsequent two weeks.

Meanwhile, excitement builds for the long-awaited return of “Squid Game.”Controversy erupted over former BIGBANG member T.O.P’s involvement in Season 2 after he faced drug-related charges, but he will appear in the show without any alterations to his role.

In October 2016, Choi Seung-hyun (T.O.P) was accused of using marijuana, both in liquid and smoke forms, while serving as a conscripted officer—a scandal that surfaced the following year. He received a suspended ten-month prison sentence.

In response to a critical netizen, he jokingly said he had no intention of returning to showbiz, stating he was merely sharing animal pictures. During a live session, he alluded to his retirement, expressing a desire to step away from the Korean entertainment scene.

He later confirmed his separation from BIGBANG, declaring a new chapter in his life as his contract with YG Entertainment expired in February.

The announcement of T.O.P’s return in “Squid Game 2″sparked outrage, not only because of his criminal history but also due to his seemingly unremorseful demeanor toward the public. Many were disheartened by director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s decision, especially given the high expectations placed upon the show’s upcoming season. Netflix faced backlash for perceived double standards in handling casting, notably removing Yoo Ah-in from the project yet retaining T.O.P, raising questions about the casting processes.

On August 1st, Netflix revealed that “Squid Game”Season 2 will be available starting December 26th, alongside a message from director Hwang Dong-hyuk. They also mentioned that a third season is underway and will debut next year.

Originally released as a nine-episode series in September 2021, “Squid Game”achieved unprecedented global success, dominating Netflix’s viewing metrics. The series’ groundbreaking records have yet to be surpassed even three years in. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk and lead actor Lee Jung-jae secured Emmy Awards for their outstanding contributions to the series.

Season 2 will see protagonist Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) return to the game after abandoning his plans to emigrate. He will be joined by Wi Ha-joon, Gong Yoo, and Lee Byung-hun, alongside a slew of new faces, including T.O.P, Im Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, and others.

Source: Nate

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