K-pop idol, actress and TV personality Sandara Park, or Dara, signed an exclusive contract with a new agency after leaving YG Entertainment in May.
Abyss Company announced on Sept. 1 that Dara, former member of 2NE1, is its newest artist, joining GOT7’s BamBam, former Wonder Girls member Sunmi, Urban Zakapa and Park Won in the agency.
“We are delighted to share a new beginning with Sandara Park, who has been loved for a long time in Korea and abroad. We will do our best to support Sandara Park so that she can show her new side and charm, which she has not yet shown to the public, as well as continue various activities for global fans,” the company said.
Dara left YG Entertainment in May, her home for 17 years. She was under YG Entertainment starting in 2004 and she debuted in 2NE1 in 2009.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I leave YG which has been my family, my caregiver, my home, my rock and my everything since I came to Korea with no family or friends in 2004 to take on new challenges,” Dara said in a letter she uploaded on May 17.
She added, “Those years have been like a dream, filled with immeasurable memories and stage performances with my crew that blew people away. When 2NE1 broke up, it felt like everything was falling apart. Then for the next five years, I challenged myself in various genres with the mindset that l was starting all over again! Looking back, those 5 years became a great asset to me and gifted me with the positive image I have now.”
According to Dara, “My heart's greatest desire has always been being on stage. Showing that part of me is my way of repaying the love and support of my Blackjacks who have shown me undying love and also the one unfaltering dream I've had since I was in second grade.”
“It is with excitement that I look ahead to the next act in my life which could be my biggest challenge yet as I leave my nest. My priorities are people, affection, and time spent together. Goodbyes are always the hardest to do but I take a deep breath and take a big step closer to my dream and the people who have stood by me waiting for me to take that step,” the 36-year-old star said.