G-Dragon Opens Up: Retirement Fears, 'Power' Comeback, and Future Dreams

K-pop icon G-Dragon recently revealed the immense emotional toll of his 2023 drug probe, admitting he considered leaving music entirely before his triumphant return.

TL;DR

• G-Dragon (Kwon Ji-yong) was so disheartened by a 2023 drug investigation that he seriously considered retirement, despite being cleared of all charges.
• His 2024 comeback single, "Power," served as a creative outlet, reflecting his difficult experiences and offering a "humorous satire on the media."
• Now 37, G-Dragon is actively touring with "Ubermensch," performed at the 2025 APEC Summit, and is candid about his hopes for marriage and Big Bang's 20th anniversary.

Imagine being at the absolute peak of your career, a global icon, only to find yourself embroiled in a controversy that shakes your world to its core. For G-dragon, the multifaceted leader of K-pop sensation Big Bang, this wasn't a hypothetical scenario but a painful reality just a couple of years ago. The emotional fallout from his 2023 drug investigation pushed him to a place where he contemplated a life far removed from the dazzling stage lights.

In a candid interview on MBC's current affairs program "Sohn Suk-hee's Questions" (aired on November 5, 2025), G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, openly discussed the profound impact of that period. His revelations offer a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who faced intense public scrutiny, and how he navigated the path back to his passion, not just as a musician, but as a person figuring out what comes next.

The Unseen Battle: Facing Drug Allegations and Considering Retirement

The year 2023 proved to be an incredibly challenging time for G-Dragon. He became the subject of an investigation on suspicion of violating South Korea's Act on the Control of Narcotics. While the police ultimately found no evidence and cleared him of all charges in December 2023, the experience itself left deep scars.

He described a feeling of profound helplessness and isolation during the probe. As an artist on hiatus, there was no immediate platform for him to voice his personal opinions or feelings, even as the situation "spiraled out of control." This lack of agency left him feeling "disheartened and empty," and led to a serious internal debate about his future.

"I didn't even want to hold a press conference to state my position," he shared. "I thought, 'Is it right for me to make a comeback?' I could have just retired and lived as an ordinary person, but there was no reason to do that either."

— G-Dragon, MBC's "Sohn Suk-hee's Questions"

This period of uncertainty, where he questioned his entire career, highlights the immense pressure and emotional toll public allegations can take, even when proven baseless. It’s a testament to his resilience that he ultimately found a path forward, not away from music, but deeper into it.

A 'Power'ful Return: Finding His Voice Through Music After a Long Hiatus

After a seven-year hiatus from the music scene, G-Dragon made his highly anticipated comeback last November (November 2024) with his single, "Power." Far from being a typical return, the song was a direct result of his difficult experiences, encapsulating the turmoil and introspection he endured. He described "Power" as a "humorous satire on the media," a creative response to the intense scrutiny he faced.

For G-Dragon, music became his most vital outlet during that challenging period. When words felt inadequate or impossible to express publicly, his artistry provided a sanctuary and a means of communication. He recently signed an exclusive contract with his new agency, Galaxy Corporation, signaling a fresh start and active resumption of his solo career.

Imagine a painter whose canvas is taken away during their most challenging time. For G-Dragon, music became that canvas, a place to pour out his pain and frustration when words failed him, ultimately transforming a difficult experience into a powerful artistic statement.

While G-Dragon spoke openly about his personal struggles and dreams, the specifics of his creative process for "Power" beyond its thematic origin remain largely private. Fans eager for more behind-the-scenes details might find themselves waiting for further insights into how he crafted such a poignant and satirical piece of work.

Global Stages and Cultural Impact: G-Dragon's Resurgence at the APEC Summit

G-Dragon's return extends beyond studio releases; he's back on major global platforms. On October 31, 2025, he performed at the welcome dinner for the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit held at the Lahan Select Hotel in Gyeongju. This performance garnered significant attention, with leaders from various countries seen capturing photos of the K-pop superstar.

A notable moment came from Marcelo Ebrard, the Mexican Minister of Economy, who shared a photo of G-Dragon on social media, famously asking, "Are you the king of K-pop?" and lavishing praise on his performance. This incident underscored not just G-Dragon's star power, but also K-pop's immense cultural diplomacy reach on the international stage.

Adding to his string of recent accolades, G-Dragon also received the Order of Cultural Merit (Ok-gwan Medal) at the Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards just before the APEC summit. These recognitions affirm his continued influence as a fashion icon, singer, and songwriter, proving that even after a seven-year break and personal challenges, his star shines brighter than ever.

Currently, G-Dragon is captivating audiences on his "Übermensch" world tour. Following successful shows in Hanoi, Vietnam, over the weekend preceding early November 2025, he is slated to conclude the tour with a series of final concerts at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul from December 12 to 14.

Beyond the Spotlight: G-Dragon's Hopes for Marriage and Big Bang's Enduring Legacy

Beyond his professional endeavors, G-Dragon also opened up about his personal dreams, specifically his desire to get married. "I'll get married when it's time," he stated, echoing a past answer about his military enlistment. He described marriage as "a world that I've never been to and really want to go to," expressing genuine excitement for this "most unknown territory" in his life.

He drew inspiration from his Big Bang bandmate Taeyang, who is now married to Min Hyo Rin and a father. "Seeing our members, how Taeyang got married, and the kid's father is my friend. When I met him, seeing myself introduce [myself] to his son, 'Hello kid, I'm your dad's friend' is so fascinating," he mused. Ever the humorist, G-Dragon even joked, "If I say this, then someone will eventually come to me, right?"

On the topic of Big Bang, G-Dragon confirmed that preparations are underway for the group's 20th anniversary next year (2026). He even playfully suggested the possibility of a 30th anniversary, reflecting a deep connection to the group's legacy. However, he also touched upon the pain he experienced as a leader when members' personal lives and mistakes affected the entire team, a sentiment widely interpreted as referring to past controversies involving former members like Seungri and T.O.P.

His comments on Big Bang's 20th anniversary and the potential for a 30th anniversary are certainly hopeful. However, it's important to remember that the group's future activities will undoubtedly depend on various factors, including individual member pursuits and evolving group dynamics, details about which he didn't delve into during this interview.

Practical Takeaways for Fans

• G-Dragon's journey is a powerful example of resilience, showing how he transformed personal hardship into creative expression.
• "Power" is much more than just a comeback song; it's a deeply personal and satirical statement worth a closer listen for its layered meaning.
• Catch him live on his "Übermensch" world tour, culminating in Seoul in December, to experience his iconic stage presence.
• Keep an eye on G-Dragon's future projects with Galaxy Corporation as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his solo career.
• His heartfelt reflections on Big Bang hint that discussions and potential plans for their 20th anniversary are in motion, offering hope for future group activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About G-Dragon

When did G-Dragon's drug probe take place?

The investigation into G-Dragon's alleged drug use occurred in 2023. He was ultimately cleared of all charges in December 2023.

What is G-Dragon's song "Power" about?

"Power," released in November 2024, is described by G-Dragon as encapsulating his experiences during his drug probe, serving as a "humorous satire on the media" and an outlet for his feelings.

Is G-Dragon currently on tour?

Yes, G-Dragon is currently on his "Übermensch" world tour, with final concerts scheduled at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul from December 12 to 14, 2025.

What are G-Dragon's future plans for marriage?

G-Dragon has expressed a strong desire to get married, calling it "unknown territory" he's excited to explore. He hasn't found the right person yet but is openly hoping it will happen.

Sources

• Korea JoongAng Daily: "G-Dragon opens up about considering retirement after drug probe" (Link Placeholder - Actual link not provided, general format used)
• Moneycontrol: "K-Pop star G-Dragon breaks silence on 2023 drug allegations, recalls considering quitting music: 'Even though I was a victim...'" (Link Placeholder - Actual link not provided, general format used)
• Sports Chosun: ""Even Making a Statement at the Press Conference Was Unpleasant" – G-Dragon Shares His Feelings on Drug Allegations" (Link Placeholder - Actual link not provided, general format used)
• Pinkvilla: "G-Dragon speaks about wanting to get married, opens up on meeting BIGBANG bandmate Taeyang’s kid" (Link Placeholder - Actual link not provided, general format used)