South Korean girl group BLACKPINK made history on Saturday, April 16, 2023, as the first K-pop band headliners at the Coachella music festival held in California (USA Today, URL1). BLACKPINK, composed of members Jennie, Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa, debuted in 2016 and became the first K-pop girl group to perform at Coachella in 2019 (Billboard, URL2). The band’s performance was a celebration of their success as a group and their individual talents. All four members performed solo songs during the show (Vulture, URL3).
BLACKPINK’s Coachella debut was a historic moment for K-pop fans worldwide. Fans of the group, also known as BLINKs, trended the hashtag #BLINKCHELLA on social media following the performance (India Today, URL4). The group’s success expanded not only in America but also in Asia, where they lead major acts that return to the road as pandemic restrictions ease (BBC, URL5).
However, not all news about BLACKPINK was positive. Recently, the group’s agency YG Entertainment had to respond to rumors of drug abuse against member Rosé. The agency firmly denied the allegations and also addressed the rumors of Rosé’s dating life (Hindustan Times, URL6). On the other hand, there was also news about plans for BLACKPINK to renew their contract with YG Entertainment, marking the future of all four members of the group (PKBnews.in, URL7).
As BLACKPINK continues to be in the spotlight, they are making waves not only in the music industry but also in fashion and beauty. Their unique style and image have garnered a massive following, as seen in their Coachella debut. Their performances and style have also influenced other K-pop groups and artists worldwide (USA Today, URL8).
For those who missed BLACKPINK’s Coachella performance, a complete guide to watch the headlining act, along with other performers like boygenius and Rosalía during weekend one, was available online (The FADER, URL9). BLACKPINK’s success is a reflection of their hard work and dedication, and their place as one of the leading girl groups in K-pop today (USA Today, URL10).
