BLACKPINK Concert Draws Ire Over Downgraded Experience: Even Safety Fears to Artists?

On July 13, after launching their DEADLINE world tour with a sold-out, two-night opening in Goyang, South Korea, BLACKPINK brought their global tour to Los Angeles. Performing at the iconic SoFi Stadium — one of the most high-tech venues in the world — expectations were sky-high. The venue, home to acts like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, is known for its state-of-the-art Infinity Screen, a 360-degree LED display considered a marvel of entertainment technology.

However, much to fans’ dismay, the DEADLINE concert lacked the technological splendor typical of SoFi shows. Unlike Stray Kids — the only K-pop act so far to fully utilize the LED 360 system — BLACKPINK’s stage appeared stripped down. There were no auxiliary side or lower-stage screens and no use of the Infinity Screen, leading to what fans called a “visually poor experience,” especially for attendees seated at the far sides.
Fans Decry “Visual Downgrade” and Safety Lapses
Although the main stage at SoFi was reportedly larger than during the Born Pink tour, many fans argued it felt “modest” and not reflective of BLACKPINK’s global stature. Comparisons with other international acts — and even the group’s own setup in smaller Korean venues — intensified frustration. Viral TikTok and Twitter posts showed disappointed fans lamenting the lack of LED floor panels and side screens, which severely affected viewing angles and overall experience.

One particularly alarming moment occurred when a lifting platform abruptly descended while Lisa and backup dancers were on it. The sudden drop caused Lisa to lose balance, nearly falling. Fortunately, the platform lowered slowly enough for Lisa to regain stability, averting a major incident. Still, fans voiced serious concern over YG Entertainment’s handling of stage safety. “Fans spent hundreds of dollars on these tickets,” one comment read. “To see this level of production, especially at such a prestigious venue, is disappointing.”
A Rocky Start to a Crucial Comeback
The DEADLINE world tour was seen as BLACKPINK’s opportunity to reassert their position as K-pop’s top girl group after a three-year performance hiatus. But with the Los Angeles leg of the tour drawing criticism rather than acclaim, fans are demanding swift improvements from YG Entertainment.



Many longtime BLINKs described the show as a “wake-up call,” with calls for YG to overhaul their concert strategy moving forward. With more tour stops to come, fans hope the group will soon deliver a concert experience that matches their world-class reputation.