From 2NE1 to Kara: Recreating the Glory of 2nd-Generation Girl Groups’ Comebacks

On July 22nd, at midnight, YG Entertainment (hereafter referred to as YG), the agency of 2NE1, announced the group’s comeback news on their official account.

In recent times, the frequent communication between YG and 2NE1 sparked hopes for a possible comeback of the entire group. In the month of May, CL, the leader of 2NE1, met with YG’s executive producer Yang Hyun-suk, and in June, all members of 2NE1 engaged in a significant and meaningful discussion with Yang Hyun-suk at YG’s newly established headquarters.

With the highly anticipated full-group comeback of 2NE1 finally happening, Sandara Park announced the exciting news by posting a group photo of the members. In her caption, she wrote, “We’re 2NE1, and we’re back! Welcome back!”To commemorate their 15th debut anniversary, 2NE1 will kick off a global tour in early October, starting in Seoul.

Following the announcement of 2NE1’s comeback, other girl groups from the second-generation who were also active during the same time period revealed their plans to return, sparking excitement among fans.

The girl group Kara (consisting of Park Gyuri, Han Seungyeon, Nicole, Kang Jiyoung, and Heo Youngji), who made their debut in 2007, has also recently announced their comeback. On July 24th, Kara will be releasing their new digital single “I Do I Do”.

On July 16th, Kara released “Hello” . According to the group’s agency, the song was originally intended for their fourth full-length album, which was released in September 2013. However, it remained unreleased until now. It was later completed as a six-member version, with the addition of the late Goo Hara’s vocals. She had recorded her part in Korean before her passing. The ballad, titled “Hello”, revolves around the theme of greetings and farewells.

The revival project of the group Rainbow has created a buzz, with signs of a comeback being shown. On July 16th, the channel “TAK TAK”shared a teaser video announcing their return.

During the video, Rainbow officially launched their new project by finalizing a contract. The group, now called “Rainbow18”, will feature original members Go Woori and Jo Hyunyoung.

The public’s attention was also focused on Girls’ Generation. Fans were disappointed when the group did not perform together on stage after their seventh full-length album “FOREVER 1″was released in 2022 to celebrate their 15th debut anniversary.

During her appearance on JTBC’s “Newsroom” on July 21st, Tiffany discussed the potential for Girls’ Generation to reunite for full-group activities. She expressed that they are always open to the idea if there is a suitable stage and timing. The group also considers the impact they can have on junior artists and their current standing in the industry. Once they have the right opportunity and message, they are prepared to take the stage whenever needed.