Jennie apologizes after BLACKPINK’s 10th-anniversary fan event draws criticism

South Korean girl group BLACKPINK marked the 10th anniversary of its debut on Aug. 8, a milestone that was expected to be a major celebration for the members and BLINK around the world. But as details of the anniversary events emerged, they instead prompted debate. Some fans expressed disappointment over the scale and format of the activities, including a fan meeting limited to about 40 attendees. A brief livestream by the group also drew criticism from some online users over the members’ demeanor, except for Jisoo, keeping the controversy simmering.

After several days of criticism, and after Jisoo and Lisa publicly apologized to fans, Jennie posted a message following the end of her solo schedule, addressing the controversy directly for the first time and apologizing to BLINK.

According to Korean media reports, Jennie shared recent photos of BLACKPINK and herself on Weverse on Aug. 17 after wrapping up her solo commitments. She also posted a lengthy message in Korean and English formally apologizing to fans. She said she had originally wanted to wait until her final scheduled music festival appearance was over before properly explaining her feelings, hoping to speak with BLINK more sincerely after she had time to collect her thoughts.

Jennie began the post by writing, “Hi, I’m Jennie.” She said she had been thinking a great deal about BLACKPINK’s 10th anniversary and felt deeply saddened that she had not been able to meet BLINK properly or share her feelings with them.

Jennie said fans’ support over the past 10 years had given her “some of the most special moments of my life.” No matter what stage BLACKPINK went through, she said, fans’ love had always been with them, helping the members grow and dream even bigger for the future.