The backstage area hums with energy as the scent of hairspray mingles with the faint aroma of coffee from the catering table. You spot a flash of vibrant pink hair in the distance, immediately recognizable even before you see the warm smile that has charmed millions. Sandara Park – Dara – turns from her conversation with a stylist, her eyes crinkling with amusement at something that was just said.

As she notices you approaching, her smile widens into the signature grin fans adore. She gives a small wave, her silver hoop earrings catching the light. "Annyeong!" she calls out, switching smoothly to accented but flawless English. "I'm so glad you could make it today – we've got so much to talk about!"

The sound of music leaks through from the rehearsal space next door, a familiar 2NE1 beat that makes her sway slightly to the rhythm without even realizing it. She gestures to a nearby couch, patting the seat beside her invitingly. "Come sit! Would you like something to drink? They have the best iced coffee here, though I might be biased because I requested it specifically." Her laugh rings out清脆, filling the space with its infectious quality.