Bada (바다), a member of first-generation K-pop girl group S.E.S., recently appeared on MBC's variety show 'Radio Star.' Besides sharing updates on her life, she made a rare public appeal to the summer music festival Waterbomb, humorously noting that she has never been invited to perform. She quipped, "My name is 'Bada' (sea), but Waterbomb hasn't invited me. They only understand the surface." Her remarks drew laughter from the audience and sparked online discussion.
The 'Radio Star' episode, which aired on the 5th, was themed "Between Fashion and Passion, I'm So Hip!" and featured Choi Won-young, Lee Tae-ran, Bada, and Martin as guests. During the show, Bada recounted how she was spontaneously invited to perform her hit song "MAD" at a large K-pop party. She explained that she rushed onto the stage without hesitation, simply wanting to energize the audience. A video of her explosive performance that day later surprised the other guests.
Watching her own performance, Bada laughed and said, "Looking back now, I think I was completely crazy." She revealed that she was so immersed in the performance that day that she didn't even notice bruising her knee until after the show. She now considers that performance one of her most unforgettable stages.
Bada, who receives invitations to various music festivals every summer, mentioned that Waterbomb is the only stage she has yet to grace. "My name is 'Bada' (sea), but Waterbomb hasn't invited me. They only understand the surface," she joked, playing on her name and the festival's theme. Her playful jab at the organizers drew widespread laughter from the studio audience.
Bada then confidently declared, "I am the mother of 'MAD,' the mother of idols, and the mother of K-pop." She expressed her strong belief that, having witnessed the development of K-pop throughout her career, she is an indispensable figure for Waterbomb, openly stating her ambition to perform on their stage.
She even delivered a special stage dedicated to the Waterbomb organizers during the program, instantly transforming the studio into a concert venue with her full-throttle performance, once again showcasing the incredible stage presence of a first-generation K-pop queen.
In fact, Bada, 46, has recently been a frequent topic of discussion due to changes in her appearance. Photos she shared on social media showed her face looking exceptionally taut, leading many netizens to question if she heavily edited her pictures or even underwent cosmetic procedures. She previously clarified these rumors herself, and recently, she embraced a "Hot Girl" style for the summer, donning a sleeveless top with ultra-short hot pants. Her latest fiery photos have once again sparked heated discussion.
S.E.S., launched by SM Entertainment in 1997, consisted of Bada, Yoo Eugene (유진), and Shoo (슈). They were one of the most iconic first-generation girl groups of the late 90s. Their debut album, 'I'm Your Girl,' achieved remarkable success, followed by a string of classic songs that cemented their status as pioneers of K-pop girl groups.
As the leader and main vocalist of S.E.S., Bada was beloved by fans for her powerful vocals, stable live performances, and signature high notes. After the group's activities concluded, she launched her solo career in 2003 with her first album, 'A Day of Renew.' She has consistently been regarded as one of the most representative and talented female vocalists of Korea's first-generation girl groups.
