On December 25, 2024, the legendary K-pop girl group 2NE1 made their long-awaited return to the stage at the 2024 SBS Gayo Daejeon, held at Inspire Arena located in Yeongjongdo, South Korea. This marked the first time the iconic group performed at the event since 2014, captivating fans with their powerful presence and unforgettable hits.
The event, which was hosted by the popular MC trio consisting of IVE's An Yu-jin, NCT's Do Young, and TXT's Yeonjun, featured numerous performances by various artists, but 2NE1's was undoubtedly one of the most anticipated. Since their hiatus, the group has been active, recently celebrating their 15th anniversary with the "2024 2NE1 Concert Welcome Back" held earlier this year, making this year's appearance particularly special for both the artists and their loyal fans.
The performance kicked off with the electrifying track "Come Back Home," followed by more fan-favorite songs like "Fire," "I Don’t Care," "Ugly," and "I’m the Best." The energy was contagious, with audience members singing along and creating a concert atmosphere reminiscent of their prime days.
CL, known for her commanding stage presence, led the group with confidence. Meanwhile, Park Bom showcased her powerful vocals, and Sandara Park turned heads with her eye-catching hairstyle—a throwback to her past distinctive looks. Gong Minzy displayed her fluid dance moves, proving age is just a number when it came to talent and stage prowess.
Witnesses noted, "SANDARA Park captivated the audience with her iconic hairstyle reminiscent of past trends," as reported by Herald POP, capturing the essence of 2NE1's impact on K-pop fashion and music culture.
The atmosphere inside the arena was electric; as 2NE1 continued their set, the crowd erupted with cheers, echoing the lyrics back to the stage. The joy and nostalgia shared among fans and performers transformed the night, creating memorable moments for everyone present.
Since their last performance at the SBS Gayo Daejeon, the K-pop scene has evolved significantly, but 2NE1 has retained their status as revered icons. "The performance reminded everyone of the group's status as K-pop legends and their lasting impact on the industry," noted Xports News.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic and the shifting music industry, 2NE1's enduring fame and influence were evident, as many fans still passionately support their efforts to come back and connect through their music. This reunion not only reignited old flames of adoration but also demonstrated the group’s relevance as they venture forward.
This landmark performance at the 2024 SBS Gayo Daejeon has etched itself deep within the hearts of both new and old fans. 2NE1’s ability to engage and inspire remains unmatched, highlighting why they are sometimes referred to as the "Big Three" of girl groups, along with Girls Generation and Wonder Girls.
Looking forward, 2NE1 continues their global tour, bringing their music and legacy to fans around the world, affirming their place as pioneers of K-pop. Their comeback resonates not just with nostalgia, but also with the promise of future performances and projects as they strive to inspire the next generation.