The members' development of their individual careers is said to have opened a new chapter for the famous Korean girl group BLACKPINK.
In 2025, BLACKPINK has been making headlines more often than ever. Just a year ago, there were concerns about the group's future due to uncertainty over contract renewals with their agency. But since then, the group's circumstances have changed dramatically. The members have agreed to continue group activities with their original agency while establishing their own record labels. As global stars, the members of BLACKPINK remain active in a variety of fields, but their increased focus on music compared to previous years is the most prominent thing that can be seen in 2024 and early 2025.
In just the first month of the new year, BLACKPINK members have made a series of announcements about their individual releases. Specifically, Jennie revealed that she will be releasing her album "Ruby" in March, followed by the music video for her pre-release track "Zen" and a duet with American singer-songwriter Dominic Fike, "Love Hangover." Jennie also collaborated with rapper Doechii, who won Best Rap Album at the 67th Grammy Awards.
Meanwhile, Lisa joined the solo wave with the song "Born Again," a song she collaborated with British singer-songwriter Raye, nominated for Best New Artist at this year's Grammys, and rapper Doja Cat, who has also earned 19 Grammy nominations in her music career.
Jisoo followed up with an announcement on February 14 with her mini album "AMORTAGE." The album garnered attention for her direct involvement in every step of the production process - singing, composing, designing the performance, and directing the visuals.
Meanwhile, Rose has been making headlines with the surprise revival of her hit song “APT” from last year. The song has maintained a long-standing position on music charts in Korea and climbed the charts overseas, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the UK Official Chart.
Solo careers haven't always been a staple in K-pop. Just a decade ago, solo projects were often seen as distractions that could undermine the unity of a group. Traditionally, first-generation K-pop idols would only embark on solo careers after leaving or disbanding their groups.
The industry has traditionally encouraged members to work together as a family, discouraging solo activities, out of concern that focusing on one member could harm the group's cohesion. However, over time, the Korean industry has realized that balancing solo and group activities can yield positive results for the group. And we can see this through BLACKPINK themselves.
BLACKPINK's situation poses a unique challenge. While the music scene is increasingly open to solo endeavors, the group's global status makes the stakes higher. The uncertainty surrounding BLACKPINK's group activities has cast a shadow over the company's trajectory and even raised questions about the future of K-pop.
BTS has faced similar challenges before, but has managed to create seven distinct artistic identities during their military hiatus, giving fans confidence that the group will continue to be active for years to come.
BLACKPINK's string of solo releases is fueling similar optimism. Fans feel like the members have embarked on a marathon to stay together for the long haul.
Jennie seamlessly transitions between the intimate charm of an “It Girl” and the legendary image of a “Zen.” Rose transcends genre debates with her singer-songwriter identity, using music to tell her personal story. Meanwhile, Lisa fearlessly embraces her Thai roots and hip-hop influences, moving forward with confidence. Jisoo has revealed her unique style with the lead single from her new album, “Earthquake,” and even stars in a new zombie comedy, “Newtopia,” which is currently airing.
The four members, still strong as individuals, may be coming together to create a new chapter for BLACKPINK — one that lasts even longer than fans initially imagined the group would.
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