2NE1’s Full Group Concert After 10 Years… “We Cried… We’ll Make Sure to Put on a Great Show”
[OSEN=최이정 기자With just one day left until the highly anticipated 15th anniversary concert of 2NE1, the members shared their thoughts and highlighted what to expect from the event.
2NE1 will host the ‘2024 2NE1 CONCERT [WELCOME BACK] IN SEOUL’ at the Olympic Hall in Olympic Park, Seoul, over three days on October 4th, 5th, and 6th. As a legendary K-pop girl group, the concert is set to be a top-notch performance featuring mega-hit songs and live band performances under the best support of YG.
The determination of the four members to stand before the audience once again is stronger than ever. 2NE1 stated, “The moment we’ve dreamed of has finally come true. We will show you who we are with our original music and make everyone jump with excitement.”
– Below is an interview with 2NE1
Q: It’s been about 10 years and 6 months since the last full group concert of 2NE1. How do you feel about it?
CL: “We’ve performed at Coachella and met up now and then. But as it’s our 15th anniversary, we planned something special, not realizing it would come to this. (Laughs) We always said we should do a concert together, and I’m thrilled it’s finally happening.”
DARA: “It feels like a dream, and it still doesn’t quite feel real. It’s been a long 10 years. It feels like the past decade has just flown by, and I doubt it will feel real until we are about to step onto the stage.”
BOM: “I’ve been waiting for this day. It feels like a dream. Right now, more than anything, I want to prepare well for the stage, and I’m most looking forward to the moment we meet the fans again.”
MINZY: “Everyone is in shock. I myself can’t fully grasp the feeling until I am on stage. I’ve dreamed a lot about us four performing together. Seeing it actually happen is something I’m really looking forward to and excited about.”
Q: The moment everyone has been waiting for is here. The shows sold out incredibly fast. Did you expect this?
CL: “Initially, I felt bad that we couldn’t meet more fans, but the reactions and love we received have really energized me. There have been many challenges because it’s been a long time, but you only know when you face them head-on, so I was nervous, but the response was heated. Moreover, this venue is where 2NE1 had our first concert, making it even more special, and we want to start from here again.”
MINZY: “I’ve been monitoring the reactions all day. I’m not the emotional type, and my MBTI is ‘T’, but I ended up crying. (Laughs) I’m grateful that people still love us and have continued to wait for us.”
Q: It’s been a while since the last concert. How different was the preparation process?
DARA: “The four of us are doing what we’ve always done, working with the same dancers and staff. This time, instead of preparing something new, we wanted to show the classic 2NE1 again. Given the time that has passed, I think I’m performing better than before. (Laughs)”
MINZY: “We’re performing the same things, but we’re coming at them with a different look and condition. The members have grown up, and it’s a lot of emotion entering the same space as different people. It feels new. The process has been healing and enlightening.”
Q: Any spoilers for the setlist?
CL: “[WELCOME BACK] aims to take us back to the classic 2NE1. While we used to change choreography or arrangements on past tours, this time we want to show the original music of 2NE1. We’ve captured the essence of the 2NE1 stage that everyone expected perfectly.”
BOM: “I wanted to show all the songs, but unfortunately, that’s not possible. (Laughs) However, we’ve prepared a setlist that everyone can enjoy and look forward to.”
Q: What aspect of 2NE1 do you most want to show through this concert?
CL: “I want to show the kind of music 2NE1 has done. While active, our team’s color couldn’t fully root itself. But as time has passed and our music has matured, it has become richer and more complete. For those who know us, it’s an opportunity to feel those emotions again, and for those who don’t, a chance to discover ‘This is the artist 2NE1 was’.”
Q: How have you felt preparing for this concert together after so long, and what are you looking forward to?
CL: “Every moment has been precious. We’ve been practicing together after a long time, and what used to feel ordinary now feels precious and more special. We’re preparing with a commitment to enjoy this time together and create many memories.”
DARA: “I already feel nostalgic. We’ve been practicing since July, and stepping into the concert venue, I think I’ll miss the rehearsal room and the memories we’re making now even more. Although it will continue, the things that used to be so ordinary now feel special, so I want to enjoy every moment. And the mature and free-spirited performance on stage deserves special attention.”
Q: You’ve rejoined hands with YG for the start of the group. What synergy do you expect?
CL: “It’s very special and meaningful. This project was decided and proceeded with very quickly. We vaguely thought about commemorating our 15th debut anniversary with the members and just went for it, but to be together again in this place adds even deeper meaning. Everyone is passionately preparing, and I’m grateful for these moments of harmony.”
DARA: “It’s comforting and welcoming. The 2NE1 members have been with YG for at least 15 years. It feels like coming home, always warm, and they know our characters well, so it feels familiar and well-led whenever we meet to work.”
Q: Are there any must-see stages or key points to watch?
BOM: “I think there will be many emotions and experiences. It might be a joyful reunion, or the fun of singing along together. Whatever you feel, it should be a performance that makes you feel various things.”
MINZY: “There has been a lot of interest in 2NE1’s live performances. There are many stages where you can sing along and enjoy with us this time too. Expect a ‘group karaoke’ experience. It will definitely make you feel the true 2NE1 stage again.”
Q: How would you describe the [WELCOME BACK] concert in one word?
MINZY: “Let’s have fun! When I listen to 2NE1’s music, I think I can have the most fun. Just hearing the beat makes me want to dance. I hope the audience feels the same way. Especially since our first concert was titled ‘NOLZA’, which means ‘let’s play’, it holds significant meaning.”
CL: “Making a mark. The concert will definitively imprint the presence of 2NE1, strong and clear. Although it’s been a long time, we are together again and continuing with a tour. I hope our reunion and these activities can create a positive example and contribute to a good flow in K-pop.”
Q: As you mark the 15th anniversary, any words for the fans who have consistently awaited 2NE1’s stage and music?
CL: “It’s the 15th anniversary by the numbers, but I still feel like it’s only been six years. After waiting for so long, we’ve finally met again, and I promise a performance beyond your expectations.”
DARA: “It’s hard to believe it’s already the 15th anniversary. It’s been 10 years since BLACKJACK and 2NE1 met at a full group concert. I’m also a fan of 2NE1. We’ve been working hard in our respective places and have finally met again. Every day is touching. I’ve always felt sorry for BLACKJACK, but this time, I’ll repay you properly on stage. (Laughs)”
MINZY: “Thank you for waiting. I wonder how you could continue to wait and love us for 15 years. It’s really precious. Since I debuted from a young age, it feels like the fans have watched me grow up. After such a long time, I’ll properly repay my filial piety!”
BOM: “I’m well aware of the feelings of those who have waited for a long time, and so have we. We will come to you with performances that meet your expectations, so please stay with us. I know we have many fans coming from overseas, and I look forward to showing a great performance on the upcoming Asia tour as well.”
2024. 10. 5.
