Excitement is all over Manila as K-pop stars 2NE1 formally arrive in the Philippines late Thursday night, November 14. Throngs of their loyal Filo Blackjacks met the group—CL, Park Bom, Sandara Park, and Minzy—filling the airport with banners and chants to welcome their heroes back home.
CL went to Instagram Stories before their flight to capture the group’s excitement. Announcing to followers that the members were on their way to Manila, she uploaded a raw video of them getting ready for their journey. She followed it with a brilliant selfie snapped aboard the jet to heighten the buzz. Always the link between 2NE1 and their Filipino following, Sandara Park gave her own touch by tweeting, “The girls are excited for Filipino food already,,” throwing fans into an online frenzy.
Their arrival immediately sparked nostalgia as Sandara, sometimes known as Dara, savored a Filipino staple. She posted an Instagram Story with Jollibee chicken and rice, a basic but classic dish with particular meaning for Filipinos. The post went viral fast, confirming Dara’s honorary Filipina role for the group and igniting buzz for their two-night event.
Tour: Welcome Back: Grand Celebration of Music and Legacy
Arriving in ready for their much awaited “Welcome Back” concerts set for November 16 and 17 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, 2NE1 Part of their international reunion trip, this stop marks a historic occasion for supporters who have long yearned for the group’s reappearance on stage as one united force.
First breaking the news of their reunion in July, YG Entertainment—the powerhouse behind the group—started global celebrations. Starting in Seoul in October, the tour featured powerful performances that reminded the globe why 2NE1 is among the most iconic K-pop groups still. With setlists allegedly including hits like “Fire,” “Come Back Home,” and their ultimate song, “I Am the Best,” Manila’s turn to witness the beauty of their live performances now is here.
A Sentimental Trip to the Philippines
For Sandara Park, this Manila leg is a poignant homecoming rather than merely a stop on a tour. Dara has a special relationship with her Filipino fans since she spent most of her career in the Philippines before launching 2NE1. She has stayed connected to her nation over the years, returning often and declaring her love of its people and culture. Not only in the K-pop scene but also in the hearts of Filipinos, this unique link has made 2NE1 a beloved group.
The group’s reunion also emphasizes their shared respect of the Philippines, a nation that has constantly helped their path. From their early years to their height as international artists, Filipino Blackjacks have stayed a constant part of their fan base, hence this concert is especially poignant and important.
Officially starting the countdown to the “Welcome Back” performances, fans from all throughout the Philippines and adjacent nations are traveling to Manila for this once-in-a-lifetime event. Blackjacks get ready to honor the group’s legendary legacy, transforming the SM Mall of Asia Arena into a sea of black and neon green, 2NE1’s official colors.
Apart from nostalgia, the concerts offer a revitalization of 2NE1’s music and impact. Renowned for their boundary-pushing approach, strong vocals, and ferocious performances, the group is prepared to provide a display reminding the world why they are legends in the K-pop scene.
A Legendary Weekend Ahead
Manila is getting ready to stage one of the most awaited K-pop events of the year as the buzz mounts. The weekend will provide an opportunity for supporters to recall the golden age of 2NE1, a company that burst through boundaries and established trends in a cutthroat market.
The “Welcome Back” tour in Manila celebrates resiliency, legacy, and the unwavering link between 2NE1 and its supporters, not only a performance. One thing is clear: the Philippines is ready to present to the world why 2NE1 will always be the B-E-S-T. The group marks the start of an incredible weekend.
