Recently, a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) gained significant attention. It referenced an article discussing the domestic criticism faced by “Squid Game 2” director Hwang Dong-hyuk for casting T.O.P. In the article, Hwang stated, “I didn’t expect people to be so unforgiving of T.O.P’s past.“
The post amassed an impressive 30.9 million views and sparked a wide range of comments, primarily from international users, who expressed opinions starkly different from those in Korea.
One netizen wrote, “This guy (T.O.P) was the highlight of this season, but I can’t believe they (Koreans) are treating him like a demon just because of marijuana.”
Another added, “I find it puzzling that Korean fans haven’t forgiven him for smoking marijuana nine years ago.” They continued, “Instead of this nonsense, can’t we focus on the incredible reception he’s received from international viewers? The world does not agree with Koreans’ perspective.“
Others chimed in with similar sentiments, “If you didn’t know who he was, you’d think he was a murderer or something, but all he did was smoke marijuana.”
Some defended T.O.P by bringing up fellow “Squid Game 2” cast member Song Young-chang, questioning the fairness of the criticism.
One international user commented, “Korea is a nation I deeply respect, but it’s seriously problematic that they demand greater accountability for smoking marijuana than for repeat pedophiles or rapists.”
Another noted, “It’s shocking that Koreans haven’t forgiven him for smoking marijuana, yet they barely talk about someone who paid a 16-year-old girl for sex.”
Several users criticized the disproportionate outrage, “Koreans treated him (T.O.P) like a pedophile or worse than him (Song Young-chang) when all he did was smoke marijuana. It’s ridiculous that 90% of Koreans attacked him for this.“
Mentions of underage prostitution by some international users were directed at Song Young-chang, highlighting the perceived double standards in the domestic reaction.
The post “Underage Prostitution Exists, So Why Criticize T.O.P?” Contrasting ‘Squid Game 2’ Reactions Between Domestic and International Viewers appeared first on KBIZoom. KBIZoom – Breaking news about K-pop, K-drama, Anime/Manga and worldwide entertainment KBIZoom – Breaking news about K-pop, K-drama, Anime/Manga and worldwide entertainment
