Following the announcement from YG Entertainment on June 23, many BLINKs took to social media under the hashtag “BOYCOTT YG ENTERTAINMENT,” accusing the label of mishandling the comeback schedule.
Frustration has targeted the group members as well, with some fans suggesting they consented to the rollout and share responsibility for the strategy.
The lack of official statements or teasers ahead of the announcement added to the confusion, leaving fans feeling left in the dark until the reveal.
Reports of fans reselling concert tickets amid the disappointment have surfaced, though it remains unconfirmed whether the resales directly result from the backlash.
BLACKPINK have not released new music since August 2023’s track THE GIRLS and their Born Pink album before that.
With a world tour kicking off in Seoul less than two weeks before the debut, anticipation among fans has been high—but the timing of the news seems to have dampened the mood.
Despite the backlash, the group is expected to proceed with the scheduled live debut. The Seoul shows will mark the beginning of a 31-date world tour, including major North American and European stadium stops.