BLACKPINK Faces Backlash Over 10th-Anniversary Fan Event and National Museum Controversy

BLACKPINK met with fans to celebrate their 10th debut anniversary, but the event continues to face various criticisms.

BLACKPINK held a 10th-anniversary meet-and-greet event at the National Museum of Korea in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the 8th, meeting with 40 fans.

Initially, it was announced that only some members would attend, but the notice was later corrected to state that all four members would be present, leading to a full-group gathering. However, because the announcement was made just two days before the debut anniversary and attendance was strictly limited to 40 people, fan complaints regarding the timing and scale had already arisen even before the event took place.

During the event, the members shared joyful thoughts, expressing gratitude to the members who have been together since their trainee days and to the fans who have sent unwavering support over the past 10 years since their debut. In particular, JISOO was seen shedding tears after the event, deeply moved and touching the hearts of fans.

However, after the event concluded, the return gifts given to fans became a new subject of controversy. Attendees received a bouquet containing two flowers and a set of rice cakes. As it spread through online communities and social media that this rice cake set was identical to a product sold commercially for 6,900 won, some reactions emerged saying that it was disappointing for a 10th-anniversary commemorative gift.

Issues were also raised regarding the operation of the National Museum of Korea, where the event took place. Online witness accounts continuously surfaced stating that access to the museum's special exhibition hall was restricted for a certain period on the day of the event. In addition, a netizen filed a civil complaint with the Audit Office of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, requesting an investigation into whether the entire process of the National Museum of Korea approving the event, using the facilities, restricting viewing, and issuing notices was appropriate.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)