This incident effectively ostracized the rapper and actor from the Korean entertainment industry for nearly a decade. However, he has recently resurfaced in a significant role in "Squid Game" season 2, playing the character of Thanos, a troubled rapper and Player 230 who struggles with addiction while competing in the deadly games.
Hwang Dong-hyuk, the director of "Squid Game," discussed his decision to cast Choi in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. He acknowledged the controversy surrounding the actor but expressed admiration for Choi's performance in the series.
"Seung-hyun's involvement in a marijuana-related incident about nine years ago hindered his ability to work in Korea," Hwang explained. "This role marks his return after a considerable break, and it's particularly poignant because he portrays a rapper who uses drugs."
Hwang recognized the challenges Choi faced in taking on this role. "It required immense courage for him to portray a character with such negative similarities to his own personal struggles," he admitted. "I believe it took a great deal of bravery to accept the part."
Despite Choi's extended absence from acting, Hwang was thoroughly impressed with his performance. "As a director, I must say he delivered an exceptional performance, and I am very pleased with his portrayal of the character," he added.
Following his indictment on June 5, 2017, Choi issued a handwritten apology to his fans via his agency YG Entertainment's website.
"I sincerely apologize for causing significant disappointment and disruption," he wrote, according to the Korea Herald. "I am deeply ashamed and unable to apologize in person."
"I have no justification and deserve any punishment," the apology continued. "I am filled with regret and fear for the irreparable harm I have caused to everyone, including my bandmates, agency, friends, and family. I will continuously reflect on my mistakes." He concluded, "I apologize again for not being able to apologize to each of you personally."
The day after the indictment, Choi was hospitalized after being found unconscious due to an overdose of prescription tranquilizers during his military service as a policeman in Seoul.
YG Entertainment shared a news report from Sports Chosun on their website, stating that Choi had regained consciousness and was transferred to a different hospital for psychiatric treatment.
When his sentence was announced in July, Choi addressed the public and reiterated his remorse.
"I deeply regret disappointing my fans and the public," he stated, according to Yonhap. "I am committed to making a fresh start and will strive to avoid repeating such mistakes, having learned from this experience."
