Choi Seung-hyun [Newsis]
Choi Seung-hyun [Newsis]

T.O.P. (Choi Seung-hyun), a former member of K-pop group Big Bang, said Sunday that the administrators of his fan site Choisunghyun.com "showed me more devoted love and support than anyone else over a long period of time, and were a great pillar of strength," as the site announced it would shut down after 20 years of operation.

Choi made the remarks through an Instagram post, saying it had taken time to speak up because of the need to choose words carefully given the circumstances. "It's late, but I want to convey my sincere feelings directly," Choi said.

"I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Choisunghyun.com team for the 20 years we spent together," Choi said. "Even in moments when I found it hard to believe in myself, they believed in me and always gave me the warmth and precious encouragement that allowed me to make music again."

Choi added that the time and effort the team had poured into keeping the site going, along with the genuine support from fans, were things Choi would carry for life. "It is thanks to that strong support that I was able to get to where I am today," Choi said.

Choi expressed hope that the team's dedication would not be obscured by misunderstandings or speculation, and that it would be remembered for what it truly was. "I know all too well that the attention and love you have given me are not things to be taken for granted, and I will carry that gratitude deep in my heart for the rest of my life," Choi said.

Choi also offered a direct apology. "I sincerely apologize to the Choisunghyun.com administrators and fans who were misunderstood and hurt because of me," Choi said.

Earlier, the Choisunghyun.com team announced on Oct. 10 through its Instagram account that it would cease operations. "We have concluded that we can no longer overlook T.O.P. and TOPSPOT PICTURES' disregard for reality, evasion of responsibility, and attitude of taking fans' dedication for granted," the statement read.

The team added that fans' love and support were not something to be used when convenient and ignored when not. "If distortion of facts or malicious criticism and threats directed at us continue, we will not avoid them regardless of who is behind them. We will respond clearly, one by one, based on the materials and evidence we have kept," the statement said.


yul@heraldcorp.com