In the world of K-pop, few acts are as iconic as 2NE1. Since their debut in 2009, the quartet—comprising CL, BOM, DARA and MINZY—have spawned hit after hit, taking the world by storm with their bold visuals and devil-may-care attitude. From the fiery bombast of “I Am The Best” to the heartfelt “Ugly”, you would be hard-pressed to find a millennial or Gen-Z in Singapore, K-pop fan or not, whose adolescence wasn’t soundtracked by 2NE1.
After leaving their longtime agency YG Entertainment in 2016, the group spent several years apart, blossoming into formidable solo artists in their own right. While they continued to flourish, fans longed for the day 2NE1 would stand on stage together again. Last year, that wish was finally granted when the group embarked on their ‘Welcome Back’ Asia tour, hitting 12 cities across the region—including Singapore.
Now, just eight months later, the girl group are gearing up to return to our shores, this time as part of this year’s Waterbomb festival. Unfortunately, BOM has since announced a temporary break due health issues. The remaining members, however, are gearing up to put on an explosive performance. Ahead of the festival, ELLE Singapore caught up with 2NE1's CL, DARA and MINZY to share their favourite things to do in Singapore and what they’re most excited to show fans at the festival.
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Welcome back to Singapore! How does it feel to return so soon after your Asia tour stop here?
CL: It feels amazing to be back so soon. Singapore always shows us so much love, and I’m really thankful for the energy and support we’ve received every time, solo or as a group.
DARA: Singapore has always had a special place in my heart. I’ve come here many times, but every visit feels fresh and exciting. I’m so happy we get to meet our fans again so soon!
MINZY: Coming back so soon feels like a dream! The energy from Singapore fans is always unforgettable, and I can’t wait to share the stage with my members again in this beautiful city.
What are your favourite things to do when you’re in town?
CL: Singapore has always been a city that inspires me. I love discovering beautifully designed cafés and unique spaces. There’s something about the atmosphere here that helps me reflect and come up with new ideas. It’s a quiet kind of inspiration I really value.
DARA: Singapore always gives me butterflies. I enjoy wandering through the streets, soaking in the local scenery and energy. I take lots of photos, and when I run into fans unexpectedly, those little moments become some of my favourite memories.
MINZY: I love discovering new food wherever I go, and Singapore is perfect for that. Tasting local dishes and sweet desserts brings me so much joy. Those small, delicious experiences stay with me long after I leave.
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What can fans expect from 2NE1's Waterbomb performance in Singapore?
CL: You can expect a dynamic stage full of energy and power, showcasing the bold and iconic spirit that defines 2NE1.
DARA: Fans can look forward to a bright and lively performance. For me, interacting with the crowd is everything. I truly hope we create memories together.
MINZY: I’ll be bringing passionate energy and powerful choreography to the stage. I’m ready to give my all and make this a truly special moment for our fans.
This will be the first time 2NE1 is performing at Waterbomb as a group. How do festival sets differ from headlining concerts?
CL: Festival sets like Waterbomb are about instant energy. Unlike our concerts, we don’t have time to build up slowly—it has to be powerful from the start. We’re focusing on big impact and fun surprises for the crowd.
DARA: It’s totally different! Festivals are wild and spontaneous. We’re adjusting our outfits, choreography, and mindset to match the summer party mood. I’m excited for the chaos!
MINZY: Festivals demand way more energy and stamina. Since the crowd is more mixed, we’re preparing a performance that everyone can enjoy. We’re ready to bring that signature 2NE1 fire to the stage.
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What are your favourite ways to unwind after performing at festivals and concerts?
CL: After getting back to the hotel, I love taking a warm shower and just lying down quietly. It gives me time to reflect on the emotions of the day.
DARA: My favourite moment is chatting with the members after the show. I also love looking at fan reactions online as it always makes me smile.
MINZY: I like to ease the tension with some light exercise or a short meditation. Ending the day like that helps me prepare for the next stage.
2NE1 have always been known for bold fashion choices. How hands-on are you with your styling, and it evolved throughout your career?
CL: It's incredibly exciting to translate 2NE1’s unique individuality into fashion. I believe our bold and original style creates a powerful synergy with our music, making it stand out even more.
DARA: Every aspect of how we present ourselves on stage was a reflection of 2NE1’s identity, so we never hesitate to experiment. In fact, I think it's that boldness that truly defines 2NE1’s fashion.
MINZY: Each of our members have such a strong, distinct personality, and I think the key is embracing and highlighting those individual styles through fashion. I'm proud of how confidently and effortlessly we pull off such bold looks.
You spent a few years pursuing solo endeavours before reuniting to perform together again. What drew you back to each other?
CL: Even after time apart, we could still feel the love and support from our fans. That reminded me why we needed to come back together to give that love back on stage.
DARA: Every time I watched a stage, I’d think, 'I wish we could share this moment with our fans again.' Their love made it possible for us to reunite.
MINZY: The memories we shared with our fans pulled us back together. We really wanted to return and feel that connection again with everyone.
Finally, how would you describe this current chapter of 2NE1’s career?
CL: This chapter of 2NE1 feels like mature freedom. In the past, we had so much to prove. Now, we’re closer to doing what truly speaks to us. With all the experience we’ve gained, 2NE1 today is stronger, more grounded and more real.
DARA: It feels like a whole new season! If our past was the beginning of the legend, this part is the expansion pack. The stage is more fun, our laughter backstage is louder, and honestly… I think we’re cooler than ever!
MINZY: I’d call it the chapter of ‘growth and reunion.’ We each walked our own paths and learned so much. And now that we’re back together, the synergy is even stronger. I’ve come to appreciate the team more than ever, and that makes this moment really meaningful.
*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.