BlackPink‘s triumphant return to the stage with their DEADLINE World Tour opener in Goyang drew immense attention, not only for its dazzling performances and celebrity guests but also for a major seating controversy that has prompted a formal apology from YG Entertainment.
The issue stemmed from the N3 section of the Goyang Sports Complex, where many fans found themselves unable to view the stage due to an LED screen and production console installed directly in front of their seats. Despite paying approximately 130,000 KRW (~$100 USD), affected attendees were reportedly left without any view of BlackPink during the two-hour show.
Though YG Entertainment had mentioned possible “obstructed views” at the time of ticket purchase, the reality amounted to what fans are now calling “zero visibility” seats. As public backlash intensified, demands for refunds mounted online.
On July 7, YG Entertainment addressed the controversy with the following official statement:
“Hello, this is YG Entertainment.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the restricted stage view in the N3 section during BlackPink’s concert last weekend.
A production console was installed in front of this section, which impaired the visibility. To improve the viewing experience, we installed additional LED screens. However, this ultimately caused unintended discomfort.
As a result, we are preparing follow-up actions for those who experienced inconvenience in this area. Detailed information will be provided via the ticketing platform.
We promise to be more attentive to audience experience in the future and strive to deliver better concert environments.
Thank you.”Advertisement
Following BLACKPINK’s highly anticipated “DEADLINE” concert in Goyang, a wave of fan frustration has erupted online — particularly from those who couldn’t see the performance despite purchasing full-priced tickets. Many attendees voiced anger over obstructed views, poor venue organization, and lack of communication. On Korean community site Theqoo, fans demanded refunds and accountability. Here’s what some of them had to say:
- I camped out for tickets for days… I’m so pissed.
- I didn’t even get to see the concert… How are they going to compensate for that?
- Give us a refund, this is insane.
- An apology and a refund are the only acceptable answers.
- They have to refund us. ㅠㅠ
- They need to refund us and cover transportation costs. Honestly, they should be thankful if I just quietly leave the fandom after this.
BlackPink held two sold-out shows on July 5–6 at Goyang Stadium, attracting nearly 78,000 fans and a stellar lineup of celebrity attendees including J-hope (BTS), Suho (EXO), Irene and Seulgi (Red Velvet), Jihyo and Nayeon (TWICE), and more. The concerts marked the group’s first full-scale performances in years, igniting social media buzz.
Despite the glamorous execution, the N3 seat controversy has cast a shadow over what was otherwise a triumphant comeback. Fans now await YG’s follow-through to ensure fair treatment and compensation for those affected.
