Beloved second-generation idol Sandara Park has made a triumphant return to the K-pop scene with the release of her new mini album, marking her first musical endeavor in six years. The album, titled Sandara Park (see what she did there?), comes after the disbandment of her old group 2NE1 in 2017. It includes five songs and is led by the title track “FESTIVAL.” It samples a 1995 song of the same name by Uhm Jung-Hwa, who appears in Sandara’s music video.
The music video for “FESTIVAL” is a playful, vibrant romp through an amusement park bearing her name. It showcases Sandara enjoying the park’s attractions as well as cameos from popular Korean celebrities Aiki, Jo Se-Ho, Kim Sook, and Park Na-Rae.
The album is a testament to Sandara‘s musical evolution and her ability to create a sound distinctly her own. Sandara co-wrote “Festival” alongside GRAY, Heize, and SJWA, who all receive production or writing credits on the B-sides “DARA DARA,” “T MAP,” and “HAPPY ENDING,” respectively.
Sandara‘s return to music sparked excitement among her fans, many of whom have supported her since her 2NE1 days. The album was well received, with Sandara Park – EP becoming the highest charting album by a female artist on the iTunes European Album chart in 2023. It also conquered all top five spots on iTunes Philippines, marking a historic all-kill for the singer.
Sandara is set to debut her new material at The Super Stage by K-Pop in Manila concert on August 11 at the Mall of Asia Arena. The K-pop legend expressed excitement on Twitter, stating, “Finally!!! I’m going back home with my own song~!!!” She added that she hopes to see her Filipino fans at the show, “If not now, when?! Mag-enjoy tayo habang meron pa hehe.”
CL, her former 2NE1 bandmate, shared a touching message on Instagram, expressing her pride for Sandara‘s solo debut and growth as an artist. In response, Sandara expressed gratitude and love for CL, acknowledging the support she received while she was working on the album.
The release of Sandara Park – EP is a major milestone in Sandara‘s career. With her unique sound, vibrant music video, and overwhelming support from fans and fellow artists, Sandara Park will make waves in the K-pop scene again.
(Featured Image: Sandara Park’s label, ABYSS Company, posted a screenshot from the music video to announce that it had been posted to YouTube already. Source: Twitter/ABYSS Company’s official Sandara Park Twitter account.)