“The 10th-anniversary gift was a 6,900-won rice cake”... BLACKPINK’s reverse fan support sparks controversy again after the price is revealed

Controversy surrounding BLACKPINK’s 10th-anniversary event shows no sign of settling down. This time, the fact that the reverse-tribute rice cake set given to attending fans was sold for 6,900 won has come to light, once again setting the internet abuzz.

BLACKPINK (Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa) held a ‘Meet & Greet’ event on the 8th at the National Museum of Korea in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut, meeting with 40 fans. However, fans’ disappointment poured out as reviews continued to emerge noting that the event announcement was made just two days before their debut anniversary, attendance was limited to 40 people, and the event was far too short.

The reverse-tribute gifts given to fans after the event also became a hot topic. After photos of the gifts, consisting of a bouquet and a rice cake set, were shared, posts recently began spreading online claiming that the rice cakes were products sold on the market for 6,900 won, sparking another controversy.

Fans shared photos of the product and its sales page, reacting with comments such as, “It’s seriously lacking in sincerity for a 10th-anniversary commemorative gift,” “The issue isn’t the price but the lack of symbolism,” “There were only 40 people at the event—couldn’t they have prepared something a little more special?” and “It’s a disappointing selection for fans who have been with them for 10 years.”

On the other hand, debate has continued, with others saying, “A gift is ultimately about the sentiment,” “Just because it costs 6,900 won doesn’t mean it has no meaning,” and “Since the members did not prepare it themselves, the members should not be the targets of criticism.”

BLACKPINK had already been embroiled in controversy from the preparation stages of the event. Fans’ dissatisfaction grew as only paid membership holders were eligible to apply, the event announcement was made on short notice, and reviews repeatedly claimed that even the live broadcast and Meet & Greet combined did not last as long as expected.

As the controversy spread, Jisoo personally apologized during a live broadcast, saying, “We also wanted to meet more people, and we knew very well how important the 10th anniversary was. It seems there were issues in the communication process,” and, “I’m truly sorry to the BLINKs who must have been hurt.” She continued, “We haven’t forgotten that BLINK is what has made BLACKPINK shine for the past 10 years,” bringing tears to her eyes.

[Kim Hayan, MK Sports reporter]