On August 3, a new episode of the YouTube channel Donghaemulgwa Baekdueunhyuk was released, featuring Sandara Park as a guest.
During the conversation, Sandara looked back on the bold hairstyles she wore throughout her career and admitted that the dramatic “Vegeta” hairstyle, inspired by the iconic Dragon Ball character, was the one she disliked the most. “The most embarrassing one was definitely the Vegeta hairstyle,” she confessed.
Although the look later became one of the defining images of second-generation K-pop, Sandara said she struggled with the attention it attracted during promotions.
Recalling the early days of promoting with the hairstyle, Sandara admitted she felt overwhelmed by the reactions of fellow idols. “Everyone knows about it now, but back then, when I was about to get out of the car at Inkigayo, I couldn’t even make myself step out.” She explained that Girls’ Generation and KARA were actively promoting during the same period, making her feel even more self-conscious. “When people saw it for the first time, they were genuinely shocked.”
Sandara also shared a memory that has stayed with her for years. She recalled that most girl groups reacted with surprise when they saw the hairstyle, but one group’s response unintentionally hurt her feelings. “Most girl groups would just go, ‘Wow!’ But one group looked at me and burst out laughing.” Although she made it clear she doesn’t blame them, Sandara admitted the moment was painful. “It wasn’t their fault. But it really hurt.”
Despite feeling embarrassed, Sandara revealed she still wore the hairstyle outside of work, even while shopping and eating out. When hosts Eunhyuk and Donghae expressed surprise, saying they didn’t think the hairstyle looked that embarrassing, Sandara explained the practical reason behind it. “After my schedules ended, if I washed my hair first, all the stores would already be closed.” Her unexpected answer made everyone laugh, showing her ability to look back on the experience with humor years later.
While Sandara Park may have struggled with the hairstyle during its debut, the towering “Vegeta” look has since become one of the most recognizable fashion moments in K-pop history.
What was once a source of insecurity has evolved into a symbol of 2NE1’s fearless image and Sandara’s willingness to push creative boundaries qualities that continue to make her one of the industry’s most memorable style icons.
Sources: Daum | 엑스포츠뉴스