May 14, 2024
MANILA – Sandara Park has always held a special place in her heart for the Philippines, often considering it her second home. With frequent visits, she’s made it a point to immerse her Korean friends in the culture and essence of being Filipino.
In the latest episode of her vlog series, “It’s More Fun with Dara Tour,” the K-pop idol went on a deeply personal journey back to her roots, revisiting her alma mater, the Philippine Pasay Chung Hua Academy, where she shared a meaningful and nostalgic reunion with her former Grade 6 adviser.
As her teacher uttered the words, “Sandara, remember me?” the floodgates of emotion opened, leading to a heartfelt moment that brought tears to Sandara’s eyes.
Describing Sandara as once “very quiet” and hesitant to speak up in class, her teacher expressed how proud she was at her transformation into a confident and successful individual, especially in the entertainment industry here and abroad.
“She was a very behaved girl and she wouldn’t recite. She would ask her classmate to recite for her,” her class adviser shared.
Reflecting on Sandara’s journey, she remarked on the support of friends and Sandara’s team, emphasizing her character, and even teased: “I don’t know why she hasn’t gotten married yet!”
The teacher expressed that she was proud of Sandara’s accomplishments, particularly her fluency in Filipino.
“Yeah, but imagine she would be going this far; to sing and dance in front of many people when here we (could not) make her do it.”
Sandara reciprocated the affection, recalling her teacher’s encouragement during her early days in the school choir, despite her initial reservations.
Reminiscing about her time at the academy, Sandara revealed that she first stepped foot in the school halls in 1996, graduating eight years later in 2004.
Returning to her old neighborhood in Pasay City alongside fellow 2NE1 member Minzy, Sandara Park visited the school for the first time in two decades, despite her frequent visits to the Philippines. As they reminisced in a classroom, the unexpected entrance of her Grade 6 adviser prompted an outpouring of emotion from Sandara.