BLACKPINK is set to embark on a "together but separate" journey. While the group has renewed their contract with YG Entertainment for group activities, each member has chosen to pursue individual endeavors independently.
According to the music industry on the 6th, Jennie has established her own personal label, 'ODD ATELIER,' to undertake solo activities. Co-founded with her mother, 'ODD ATELIER' signifies a space for creating something new and noteworthy.
Jennie shared her aspirations for future activities, stating, "ODD ATELIER is a name I created with the belief that even if the path I take is strange or different from others, I'll succeed." She explained her reason for establishing the company, "I've been with the same company and group for 7 years, but I wanted to pursue my personal activities more freely and comfortably. I've come this far with the crew I've been with for a long time." Jennie also revealed her goal to release a solo album within the year.
Following Jennie, Jisoo too has opted to engage in personal activities with her family. Recently, it was announced that Jisoo would work with 'Blissoo,' a new agency established by Biommom, a brand for infant health supplements run by her brother.
Biommom described itself as a "startup poised for rapid global growth in the K-pop industry." It aims to "expand entertainment business quickly, both domestically and internationally, to gain more love from K-pop fans. We are seeking talents to innovate the domestic and international K-pop market with us."
By partnering with her brother, Jisoo minimizes risk. Instead of establishing an individual agency, she chose to expand the family business, reducing various processes and costs associated with company establishment and leveraging experience in company operations.
The rationale behind her choice is believed to be her ability to adjust the revenue structure in her favor by reducing the fees paid to the company. Also, being part of a family-run company offers her psychological stability.
However, the plans of the other members, Lisa and Rosé, remain uncertain. Like Jennie and Jisoo, it's speculated that Lisa and Rosé might walk a similar path or establish their own agencies.
Elle Taiwan recently released Lisa's first interview following her failed renegotiation with YG. Lisa mentioned, "Since BLACKPINK has no leader, our way of coexisting is to freely express our opinions. If there's something I want to take responsibility for, I'll step forward, or if it seems like something other members would do, I'll let them. If there's a better opportunity, I'd recommend others to do it. I'm so grateful to be able to discuss comfortably with the members."
She continued, "One must believe in oneself. Don't get swayed by what others say. No one else can take you away, so just believe in yourself. The most important thing is your happiness. I'm happy doing what I love and plan to reveal myself in any form in the future."
Rosé hinted at possible continued collaboration with YG through her recent New Year's greetings release. On social media, she reflected on the year, "It feels like I've spent the year fruitfully. Looking through my photo album, I realized I laughed more than I thought throughout the year. The various emotions I felt every day were the most natural feelings a 26-year-old could have."
While Rosé's exact future plans haven't been disclosed, the industry speculates she will likely continue her solo music career.
As such, BLACKPINK members have embarked on their unique journeys for a variety of reasons. Beyond the group's name, they are also branded as solo artists, indicating their intent to minimize risk and showcase a broader range of activities.
