The much-anticipated BLACKPINK’s 10th debut anniversary turned out to be a disappointment for fans, becoming a case study of the challenges of keeping a K-pop group together when its members have launched their independent solo careers.
The “meet and greet” held on August 8 at Seoul’s National Museum of Korea drew immediate negative comments. The event, which was announced just two days before the date and which had only 40 fans invited, received criticism because of the poor organisation, cheap gifts, a rice cake set which allegedly costs $5.20 (6,900 won), and limited access to the museum’s exhibits. An emotional apology was issued by both Rosé and Jisoo.
The controversy behind this mismanaged event unveiled a deeper structural issue, i.e., four separate management agencies of the individual members.
After the expiration of their respective contracts with YG Entertainment in December 2023, Jennie formed Odd Atelier, Lisa formed Lloud, Jisoo set up Blissoo, and Rosé joined The Black Label. Although YG Entertainment still manages all group affairs, planning any group activity now involves coordination between four separate companies that have different interests.
The mismanaged logistics have already delayed music releases. YG Entertainment stated that the reported delay to BLACKPINK’s new EP is due to “final stage work to raise its quality”, but the album arrived more than half a year later than expected, after the world tour of the same name had already concluded.
All members, meanwhile, prioritised their solo work. Jisoo released her debut solo EP and toured Asia while Jennie and Lisa had individual performances at Coachella. Meanwhile, Rosé collaborated with Alex Warren and released soundtrack singles.
For fans, the anniversary was quite a disaster, but for industry observers, it unveiled the challenges of putting together four group stars who prioritise their solo careers.
