K-Pop In The U.S.A.

As with many girl groups in the K-Pop universe, 2NE1 has somewhat corporate beginnings, having been founded by a company rather than, say, a singer following her dream. In 2NE1’s case, the group was formed by YG Entertainment. The company reportedly announced the formation of the group in 2005, saying the girls would need four years of training before they would be ready for prime time. Sure enough, the group’s first single, “Fire,” was released in 2009.

Now YG Entertainment is partnering with Live Nation to take 2NE1 global. So far, only two U.S. shows are set: Newark, N.J., at the Prudential Center Aug. 17 and Los Angeles at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live Aug. 24.