With just one week remaining until the commencement of BLACKPINK’s DEADLINE world tour at Goyang Stadium on July 5–6, global fans have shown increasing excitement. However, this anticipation has been marred by widespread frustration from segments of the fanbase, particularly in response to YG Entertainment’s comeback strategy.
Merchandise and Promotional Criticism
The initial wave of discontent emerged following the release of merchandise associated with the DEADLINE tour. Although positioned as part of BLACKPINK‘s long-awaited return, the products, consisting of T-shirts, hats, keychains, face towels, and transparent plastic bags, have been widely criticized for their lack of creativity. Fans expressed disappointment on social media, accusing YG of complacency and neglecting fan engagement.
Calls for a boycott of the tour surfaced, with many questioning the company’s responsibility and commitment to the group’s supporters.
Disappointment Over Comeback Rollout
Frustration escalated on June 23, when YG announced that BLACKPINK‘s new song would be performed for the first time at the DEADLINE concert, without providing any teasers, posters, or previews. Given that the group has not released new music in nearly three years, fans deemed this approach insufficient and disrespectful.
Furthermore, YG’s statement that “the official release date will be announced later” led to speculation about potential delays or indefinite postponement. This has intensified calls on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit for BLACKPINK to part ways with YG Entertainment.
Fan Mobilization and Rumors
In response, some international fanbases began fundraising efforts to send protest trucks to YG’s headquarters, requesting that the new track be released on July 4, one day before the concert. There have also been unconfirmed reports of fans canceling their tickets to the Seoul concert in protest.
Concurrently, rumors about member Lisa’s alleged secret marriage to CEO Frédéric Arnault have circulated, further fueling speculation that the DEADLINE tour might be BLACKPINK‘s final activity under YG.
BLACKPINK’s Subtle Response
Amid mounting criticism, BLACKPINK made their first public gesture on June 24, when Jisoo shared an image featuring all four members forming a four-leaf clover with their hands. Although their faces were not shown, the symbolic unity reassured fans. The post was subsequently re-shared by Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, further signaling a collective return.
Additional behind-the-scenes updates suggest the group is currently rehearsing intensively for the upcoming concert. Lisa recently confirmed via Bubble that preparations were underway, aiming to ensure a high-quality performance.
While fans speculated the four-leaf clover image might hint at the upcoming song, others pointed out the same gesture was previously used during a fansign event, suggesting it may simply reflect camaraderie rather than promotional intent.
Expectations for the DEADLINE Tour
Given the limited new music, many anticipate that the tour will feature BLACKPINK‘s signature hits such as “How You Like That,” “Kill This Love,” “Pink Venom,” and “Shut Down.” These tracks are expected to be refreshed with new arrangements to provide a nostalgic yet invigorating experience.
Additionally, each member is slated to perform solo works released after parting ways with YG for individual promotions ALTER EGO (Lisa), Ruby (Jennie), rosie (Rosé), and AMORTAGE (Jisoo). Unverified sources suggest specific songs like “Like Jennie – Seoul City,” “APT. – toxic till the end,” “ROCKSTAR – F*ck Up The World,” and “earthquake – tears” may be included in the setlist.
The DEADLINE World Tour presents a crucial opportunity for BLACKPINK to re-establish their collective presence after a prolonged hiatus. However, the lack of transparency and preparation from YG has sparked considerable concern among fans.
As the tour approaches, it remains imperative for the agency to take decisive action to rebuild trust and ensure the group’s return is both impactful and well-received.
