South Korean singer CL was one of the stars of the recent Winter Olympics closing ceremony. The pop singer performed hits ‘The Baddest Female’ and ‘I Am the Best’, a song by CL’s girl group 2NE1. Both as a solo star and in a girl group, CL (real name Lee Chae-rin) has become one of South Korea’s hottest stars. She is also one of the few South Korean stars to gain recognition in the West. The singer has collaborated with Major Lazer producer Diplo, even scoring her own Hot 100 hit with solo single ‘Lifted’. As a member of 2NE1, CL has numerous top 10 hits on the US World chart, including ‘Go Away’ and ‘Can’t Nobody’.

However, it’s been a long road for CL. She signed a deal with Scooter Braun back in 2014. Braun is the brains behind the careers of Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande. CL toured with Diplo was shouted out by acts like Lorde and British singer Charli XCX. But since ‘Lifted’, the artist has had an uphill battle in the West. K-pop news site Omona reports that the artist has recorded over 200 songs for her upcoming English-language album. As proved by a stunning Winter Games’ performance, CL is still an icon in South Korea. Hopefully after her biggest exposure yet, CL can transition into the Western market later this year.