In December 2022, the world learned that K-pop idol and ex-BIGBANG member T.O.P was set to be among eight influential figures chosen for the “DearMoon” project. This initiative, a collaboration between billionaire Yusaku Maezawa and Elon Musk’s SpaceX, aimed to send its participants on the first civilian mission to the moon. The selection criteria centered on people who could make a positive impact on humanity. Originally slated for 2023, the mission now faces an indefinite delay.
A media outlet reported the postponement of the “DearMoon” project on October 1. While the exact reasons remain undisclosed, Kim Sung Soo, a space exploration professor at Kyunghee University, provided some insights. He said, “The ‘DearMoon’ project is the first civilian project aiming to fly participants to the moon. The spacecraft, Starship, developed by SpaceX, was supposed to circle the moon for about six days this year. However, due to delays in SpaceX’s development of Starship, the mission will likely not proceed this year and might take a few more years.”
Despite this setback, the “DearMoon” project remains on the horizon, and fans hope that T.O.P will still get a chance to participate.
Meet the dearMoon Crew – TOP (Choi Seung Hyun) | トップ (チェ・スンヒョン)
T.O.P responds to fans
This update follows T.O.P‘s announcement some months back about his departure from BIGBANG. Responding to a fan’s comment on Instagram, the 35-year-old idol wrote, “I’ve already withdrawn.” He added, “I’ve already told you that I’m leaving and I’m facing a new chapter in my life since last year.” Despite his departure, T.O.P continues to be musically active, hinting at ongoing album work in a post showing him at a music workstation. He’s also in the cast of Squid Game season two.
YG Entertainment, the label that launched BIGBANG in 2006, has yet to comment on T.O.P‘s recent statements. In the past, they said T.O.P “will always participate in BIGBANG‘s activities whenever he is able.” Notably, in April 2022, BIGBANG released the song “Still Life,” in which T.O.P participated, even after leaving YG.
Known as the Kings of K-pop, BIGBANG played a pivotal role in propagating the Korean wave globally, with iconic hits like “Fantastic Baby” and “Bang Bang Bang.” – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Looks like T.O.P will have to wait a little longer to go into space. Source: X/@tang__kira.