2NE1 member CL (YG Entertainment)

As idol group 2NE1’s leader CL embarks on her U.S. debut next year, many fans and experts from the music industry are currently offering positive opinions on her new challenge.

According to local reports, CL’s debut in the U.S. is neither something that she has been preparing for, nor something that her agency has been promoting. Rather, the singer was offered to take the step by Scooter Braun, a famous American talent manager who has managed global stars such as Justin Bieber, Psy and Ariana Grande.

CL and Scooter Braun on the left (Instagram) Psy and Scooter Braun on the right (OSEN)

The process of CL’s debut is extremely similar to that of Psy, whose song “Gangnam Style” became a megahit in the U.S. market without the singer or agency’s active promotion overseas.

2NE1’s songs are also gaining interest in the country. Among many of its hit songs, the song “I am the Best” gained exceptional attention, with 100 million views on YouTube. The song was also inserted in an American television commercial for Microsoft.

2NE1 celebrates 100 million Youtube views (YG Entertainment)

“CL has been getting offers to debut in America for a long time. Her unique character, talented vocal and rapping skills, and fashion styles are the main reasons for her potential as a future star in the U.S.,” a spokesperson for the singer was quoted as saying.

Being fluent in four languages -- Korean, Japanese, English and French -- CL is expected to succeed in the U.S. market,” the spokesperson added.

The singer is currently focusing on recording for her debut album with U.S. music officials visiting Korea.

By Kim Min-jin (minjin103@heraldcorp.com)