BLACKPINK opens new chapter as members go solo with new music

By KTimes

In 2025, BLACKPINK has been making headlines more frequently than ever. Just a year ago, there were concerns about the group's future due to uncertainties over contract renewals with their agency.

Since then, the circumstances have changed significantly. The members have agreed to continue group activities with their original agency while setting up their own individual labels. As global stars, they remain active in various fields, but their increased focus on music compared to previous years stands out.

In just one month into the new year, BLACKPINK members have made a flurry of announcements. Jennie revealed she will release her album "Ruby" in March, preceded by the music video for the prerelease track "Zen" and the duet "Love Hangover" with American singer-songwriter Dominic Fike.

She also collaborated with rapper Doechii, who won Best Rap Album at the 67th Grammy Awards, with their track set to drop on Friday.

Lisa joined the solo wave with her song "Born Again," a song she worked on with British singer-songwriter Raye, nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys this year; and rapper Doja Cat, who also has 19 Grammy nominations under her belt.

Jisoo followed on Feb. 14 with her mini album "AMORTAGE," earning attention for her hands-on involvement in vocals, songwriting, performance design and visual direction.

Meanwhile, Rose made headlines with a surprise resurgence of her hit song "APT." from last year. The track has maintained a long-term grip on domestic music charts and climbed overseas rankings, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the U.K. Official Chart.

Solo careers have not always played a major role in K-pop. Just a decade ago, solo projects were often seen as distractions that could weaken group unity.

Historically, first-generation K-pop idols typically launched solo careers only after leaving their groups or after group disbandment.

The industry's tradition of having members work together like family discouraged solo activities, fearing that spotlighting one member could harm group cohesion.

Over time, however, the industry has recognized that balancing solo and group activities can create positive results in the group.

New chapter for BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK's situation presents a unique challenge. While the music scene has grown more receptive to solo endeavors, the group's global stature makes the stakes higher.

The uncertainty surrounding BLACKPINK's group activities once cast a shadow over the agency's trajectory and even raised questions about K-pop's future.

BTS faced similar challenges earlier but successfully carved out seven distinct artistic identities during their hiatus for military service, giving fans confidence that the group would remain active for years to come.

BLACKPINK's string of solo releases is prompting similar optimism. Fans sense that the members have begun a marathon to stay together for the long haul.

Jennie moves seamlessly between the intimate charm of "It Girl" and the mythical imagery of "Zen." Rose steps beyond genre debates with her singer-songwriter identity, using music to tell her personal story.

Lisa fearlessly wields her Thai heritage and hip-hop influences, pushing forward with confidence. Jisoo has unveiled her unique style with the lead single of her new album, "earthquake," and is even starring in a new zombie comedy series, "Newtopia," which is currently airing.

The four members, standing strong as individuals, may be crafting a new chapter for BLACKPINK together — one that lasts even longer than fans initially imagined.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.