BLACKPINK (블랙핑크) is currently gearing up for their upcoming “DEADLINE” world tour, which will kick off in July. Despite its name, it seems not everything met the actual deadline, namely, the release of new music. It was recently announced that the girl group will premiere their comeback track on the first day of their two-day concert in Goyang.
While comeback news usually excites fans, this time, many were left disappointed, believing that the quartet would primarily perform older songs during the tour. Here’s how fans reacted to the single announcement:
Shortly after YG Entertainment announced that BLACKPINK would debut their new song at the Goyang concert, fans voiced frustration over what they saw as poor planning. Many criticised both the group and the agency, arguing that a tour without a new album is disappointing, as it means fans will have to wait even longer for fresh material.
Concerns were also raised about how rushed the concert appears to be, with many pointing out that the members have had little to no time to rehearse, record the album, film music videos or carry out proper promotions, having been busy with their individual solo activities. To express their frustration, many fans have reportedly resold their tickets for BLACKPINK’s concerts in various US cities, believing that the tour will not live up to the hype.
BLINKs across the globe appear to share the sentiment, expressing little confidence that this tour will differ significantly from the group’s previous ones. That being said, some defended BLACKPINK, stating that there’s not much the girls can do since YG Entertainment has authority over group activities. Some have urged the company to release the song and album earlier as a form of damage control, as fans begin to lose interest.
The backlash is not at all surprising, as YG Entertainment has faced repeated criticism over its handling of BLACKPINK, their biggest and most successful idol group. Not long ago, they also received flak for what many deemed lazy and uninspired tour merchandise. In an attempt to reassure fans, the BLACKPINK members have shared updates from rehearsals, including reunion photos featuring all four members.
Unfortunately, this hasn’t been enough to convince many that the tour will be a success. While we’re confident that BLACKPINK will always have loyal fans who stick with them through thick and thin, the planning behind this comeback has certainly raised eyebrows. What do you think? Are BLINKs right to be upset over the way this tour is shaping up?
