Jennie announces new solo EP after BLACKPINK backlash

Summary BLACKPINK member Jennie is preparing to make her solo comeback with a new EP, just days after the group faced criticism over its 10th anniversary celebrations. BLACKPINK anniversary plans face backlash Jennie's comeback announcement arrives shortly after BLACKPINK and YG Entertainment faced criticism over the group's 10th anniversary event. BLACKPINK members focus on solo careers Although YG Entertainment continues to manage BLACKPINK's group activities, each member now handles their individual career through separate agencies. AI Generated Summary BLACKPINK member Jennie is preparing to make her solo comeback with a new EP, just days after the group faced criticism over its 10th anniversary celebrations. On Wednesday, August 19, Jennie's agency OA Entertainment confirmed that the singer is gearing up to release her new EP by the end of August. The upcoming project marks another significant milestone in her growing solo career. Anticipation for Jennie's return has already been building through her performances at several major international music festivals this year. The K-pop star has headlined events including the Governors Ball Music Festival in New York, Roskilde Festival in Denmark, Open'er Festival in Poland, Mad Cool Festival 2026 in Spain and Summer Sonic Festival 2026 in Japan. Jennie has also maintained strong momentum through her recent music releases. Her latest track, 'Less than a Lover,' has received attention from fans worldwide and achieved a notable milestone on QQ Music in China. The song became the only female solo single released this year to earn gold certification on the platform. The track also performed strongly in South Korea, topping the popular music programme M Countdown for two consecutive weeks. The achievement further highlighted Jennie's influence and popularity as a solo artist. BLACKPINK anniversary plans face backlash Jennie's comeback announcement arrives shortly after BLACKPINK and YG Entertainment faced criticism over the group's 10th anniversary event. Some fans expressed disappointment over the short notice given for the celebration, with details reportedly announced only two days before the event. The gathering was also limited to 40 fans, prompting criticism from sections of the group's dedicated fanbase. Applications were restricted to fans with paid memberships and remained open for a limited period, from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday. The arrangement sparked further discussion about BLACKPINK's limited interaction with fans in recent years. The original announcement also created uncertainty over whether all four members would attend. It stated that only members who were available would participate, leaving fans unsure about the group's complete involvement. The situation was later clarified, with confirmation that all four members — Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé and Lisa — would attend the anniversary event. BLACKPINK members focus on solo careers Although YG Entertainment continues to manage BLACKPINK's group activities, each member now handles their individual career through separate agencies. Following the end of their individual contracts with YG Entertainment in 2023, the four members pursued independent ventures while maintaining their commitment to BLACKPINK as a group. Jennie established OA Entertainment to oversee her solo activities. Rosé signed with The Black Label, while Lisa and Jisoo launched their own agencies, Lloud and Blissoo, respectively. As Jennie prepares to release her new EP later this month, attention is once again turning toward her solo career. Her international festival appearances, recent musical achievements and growing global audience have created strong expectations for what could become another major chapter in her journey as a solo artist.