YG Entertainment is facing backlash from fans following the announcement of BLACKPINK's 2025 world tour, with many accusing the company of rushing the decision to offset financial losses. The criticism intensified as fans pointed out the timing of the announcement, which closely followed reports of YG Entertainment's declining profits and coincided with BLACKPINK member Jisoo's upcoming solo album release and tour.
The company surprised fans with a teaser for BLACKPINK's tour, an announcement that came without prior warning. While many were excited about the group's return to the global stage, others expressed frustration over what they viewed as a poorly timed and strategically motivated move by YG Entertainment. The backlash centered around the overlap with Jisoo's solo promotions, as she had recently been teasing her new album Amortage and an Asia tour titled LIGHTS, LOVE, ACTION!
"Why would YG announce a BLACKPINK tour right when Jisoo is promoting her solo comeback?" one fan wrote online, echoing widespread concerns among netizens. Many pointed out that Jisoo has often been perceived as being sidelined by YG, and this latest scheduling conflict further fueled speculation that the company was not prioritizing her solo success.
#BLACKPINK 2025 WORLD TOUR TEASER
https://t.co/sdKXaPS6ZX#블랙핑크 #WORLDTOUR #TEASER #YG pic.twitter.com/HuqwjiVDD7 — BLACKPINKOFFICIAL (@BLACKPINK) February 5, 2025
Some fans also questioned whether the decision to launch a new BLACKPINK tour was motivated by financial necessity rather than artistic intent. Recent reports indicated that YG Entertainment has been struggling with declining profits. According to financial estimates, the company's revenue for 2024 is projected at 3,628 billion KRW, but its operating profit is expected to show a deficit of -239 billion KRW. Net profit is estimated to be -5 billion KRW, with an operating profit margin of -6.58% and a net profit margin of -0.14%.
Given these figures, many believe the tour announcement is a response to YG's financial struggles. BLACKPINK's previous global tour was a massive success, generating significant revenue, and some netizens suspect the company is attempting to replicate that financial boost as it grapples with losses. "This tour is clearly about money, not the fans or the group's artistic vision," one online comment read.
The controversy also extends to the state of BLACKPINK's music releases under YG. Some fans were frustrated that the group announced a tour before releasing a new album, particularly given the criticism that YG has historically limited the number of tracks BLACKPINK releases. "They're rushing a tour without giving us new music first. What's the logic?" another fan remarked.