Seungri Breaks Silence: “Is It Fun to Call Me ‘Defeat’ Instead of My Name?”

Still in Korea, Not Pursuing Business Abroad

In a short interview with Ilgan Sports published on April 3, Seungri dismissed recent rumors claiming he had left Korea to start a business in China.

“The talk about me leaving Korea is not true,” he said.

“I still live in Korea. I only go overseas to meet old acquaintances or attend personal events like weddings—there are no business plans at all.”

He also denied speculation about having ties to chaebol families (conglomerate heirs), saying:

“I’m not connected to any third-generation chaebol. I just happen to have a lot of international friends, so I go back and forth. But I have no intention of starting anything new.”

“People Think It’s Fun to Call Me ‘Defeat’”

One of Seungri’s more striking comments addressed how he's become the subject of online ridicule and memes:

“People seem to find it entertaining to insult and criticize me. I guess it’s funny to call me ‘패배 (Paebaé)’—which means ‘Defeat’—instead of Seungri, like it’s some kind of meme.”

The nickname plays on the irony of Seungri’s stage name, which means “Victory” in Korean.

He added,

“Even in my personal life, I’m doing my best to behave responsibly and avoid causing any further controversy.”

Background: Burning Sun Scandal and Prison Sentence

Seungri was sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison in connection with the 2018 Burning Sun scandal, facing charges including embezzlement and incitement to assault. He was released in February 2023 after serving his time.

Where Are the Other BIGBANG Members?

Seungri isn’t the only former BIGBANG member to speak out recently. T.O.P (Choi Seung-hyun) also gave a rare interview, reflecting on his own scandal and departure from the group.

T.O.P, who was caught smoking marijuana in 2017, admitted:

“I experienced a brilliant rise in my 20s, but also a devastating fall because of my mistakes. I felt like I hit rock bottom. I caused pain and betrayal to my loved ones, my family, and fans. There was a time I saw no future.”

He added,

“I told my label and the members long ago that I would leave the group. Even if I get criticized now, it’s something I have to bear. I didn’t want to cause more harm to the team. I left out of shame, and I’ve never once changed my mind.”

T.O.P appeared in Squid Game 2, marking his first major public project in years.

G-Dragon Kicks Off 'Ubermensch' Tour with a Bang—BIGBANG Reunion, Strong Turnout, and ‘Good Day’ Back on Track

G-Dragon officially launched his long-awaited solo world tour with the first ' Ubermensch' concert in Seoul, marking a powerful return to the stage. Despite some criticism over his live vocals, a delayed start, and post-concert litter at the venue, the show was widely considered a successful kickoff, heightening anticipation for the global tour ahead.

Adding to the excitement, Taeyang and Daesung made a surprise appearance, joining G-Dragon for an emotional BIGBANG reunion performance that sent the crowd into a frenzy. It was a rare and nostalgic moment that fans won't soon forget.

Meanwhile, Daesung is now preparing for his own sold-out solo concert series, ‘D’s Wave’, which begins later this month in Seoul as part of his Asia tour.

As for G-Dragon’s variety show, 'Good Day', which faced earlier disruptions due to the controversy surrounding former cast member Kim Soo-hyun, the show has now returned to regular scheduling, signaling stability ahead.

All eyes are now on G-Dragon as his tour continues and his music and media projects gain fresh momentum.