On March 3, Park Bom uploaded a lengthy message to Instagram, directly mentioning YG Entertainment, founder Yang Hyun Suk, producer Teddy Park, and fellow 2NE1 members Sandara Park and CL. In her post, Park Bom claimed she had been turned into a so-called “drug addict” to cover up another member’s alleged use of illegal substances. She revisited the 2010 controversy involving Adderall, a prescription medication used to treat Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), which she was investigated for importing. Park Bom asserted that the medication was legally prescribed for medical treatment, not an illicit drug, and that the scandal severely damaged her public image.
In the letter, Park Bom directly referenced Sandara Park, alleging that Sandara Park had been caught in a drug-related incident and that Park Bom herself was framed as a “drug addict” to cover it up. As of now, none of the individuals or the company named in the post have issued official responses. The controversy has thrust 2NE1 back into the spotlight, prompting renewed discussion of the group’s dramatic 17-year journey.
Born in 1984, Sandara Park debuted as a member of 2NE1 but had already built a name for herself in the Philippines before entering the Korean entertainment industry. Her childhood was marked by hardship. When she was eight years old, her father declared bankruptcy, plunging the family into financial crisis. She later revealed that her family could not afford bus fare and often walked long distances for daily activities.
At age 10, she moved to the Philippines with her family. Struggling with the language, she faced communication barriers and was bullied in school due to her accent. For a long time, she lived quietly and had difficulty forming friendships. Her life changed after joining the talent competition Star Circle Quest, where she finished as runner-up. She quickly rose to fame in the Philippine entertainment industry. Her debut album sold over 100,000 copies, leading to acting roles and endorsement deals.
However, misfortune struck again. Her father became embroiled in gambling issues and was accused of financial misconduct while managing her earnings. In 2007, he was arrested over financial problems. Although her parents had separated, Sandara Park stepped in to post bail. The scandal significantly damaged her image in the Philippines, leading to a sharp decline in contracts. In an effort to sustain her income, she agreed to pose for an adult magazine pictorial, a decision that ultimately resulted in her Philippine agency declining to renew her contract.
A turning point came later in 2007 when YG Entertainment invited her to return to South Korea as a trainee, despite her being in her 20s – an uncommon age for aspiring K-pop trainees at the time. After two years of training, she debuted with 2NE1 in 2009. The group quickly became one of the defining acts of the second-generation Hallyu wave with hits such as “Fire,” “I Am The Best,” “Lonely,” and “Come Back Home.” Within the group, Sandara Park served as a visual and vocalist, earning attention for her distinctive fashion and unconventional image.
From 2009 to 2016, 2NE1 experienced immense popularity. The group disbanded at the end of 2016. Following the disbandment, Sandara Park pursued solo activities, appearing in films, television dramas, and working as an MC. In May 2021, she departed YG Entertainment and signed with a new agency to continue her independent career.
In 2023, Sandara Park released her first solo mini album in South Korea. By 2024–2025, 2NE1 reunited to celebrate their 15th debut anniversary, launching the “Welcome Back” world tour with multiple shows across Asia. The reunion revived public interest in all members, including Sandara Park and Park Bom.
As of 2026, Sandara Park remains active in both South Korea and the Philippines, participating in variety programs, commercial events, and brand promotions. International media outlets have previously estimated her net worth to be in the tens of millions of dollars, placing her among the higher-earning K-pop idols of her generation.
Meanwhile, Park Bom’s recent allegations continue to divide online communities. The fact that 2NE1 has spent 17 years together makes the situation even more shocking to fans. After years of alleged neglect that led to the group’s disbandment and only two years into their reunion, Park Bom’s unilateral revelation has once again cast a shadow over the group’s legacy. Observers have also noted that Park Bom has recently missed several group schedules and appeared low-energy during tour performances, adding to concerns. Her latest letter has landed as a major shock to the 2NE1 fandom, leaving the future dynamic between the members uncertain.
Sources: K14
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