Blackpink ink: K-Pop queens sign on the dotted line, ending fan fears of a split

Months of suspense for fans of K-pop sensation Blackpink have finally come to an end as the quartet officially renewed their agency contract, putting to rest fears of a potential split.

YG Entertainment, the powerhouse behind Blackpink, announced today, December 6, that a groundbreaking exclusive contract for group activities based on strong trust has been inked. This deal is rumoured to be one of the most lucrative in the music industry this year.

Since their formation in 2016, Blackpink has risen to the summit of K-pop, establishing themselves as the world’s premier girl group. YG Entertainment assured fans that the group has grand plans to repay their fans around the world with activities that match their global status in the K-pop scene with new albums and world tours.

While the collective contract is now sealed, the details remain shrouded in mystery. YG’s statement did not delve into the specifics of individual contracts with Jisoo, Lisa, Jennie, and Rosé. According to South Korean news agency Yonhap, negotiations for these contracts are still underway, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Rumours circulate that if individual contracts aren’t renewed, the members may explore solo careers under different representation. This unusual flexibility could see the quartet perform as a group only when their schedules align—a rarity in the K-pop universe.

The K-pop landscape is notorious for groups disbanding when members refuse to renew contracts. Notable examples include YG acts like Bigbang and 2NE1. However, Blackpink’s decision to stay united has surprised the industry, reported BBC News.

Devoted fans, who have anxiously awaited news since the group’s contract expiration in August, flooded social media with jubilation.

“See you next tour!”

“Blackpink will and always remain as four.”

YG Entertainment’s share price soared by over 25% today, marking a significant turnaround. Despite this boost, the company’s overall stock market value remains nearly 30% lower than six months ago.

The four members, all in their twenties, have transcended their music stardom. With over 92 million subscribers on their official YouTube channel and each boasting more than 70 million Instagram followers, Blackpink has become a force in the entertainment and fashion industries.

They’ve represented prestigious brands like Chanel and Dior and headlined major international music festivals including Coachella and BST Hyde Park.