Fact Check: Is Blackpink disbanded?

Is Blackpink Disbanded?

The claim regarding the status of the K-pop group Blackpink has generated considerable discussion, particularly surrounding rumors of disbandment. As of late 2023, various reports indicate that Blackpink has not disbanded, although the members have made significant changes to their management arrangements. This article will explore the available information regarding the group's status and the context surrounding these claims.

What We Know

1. Contract Renewals: Reports confirm that all four members of Blackpink—Jennie, Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa—have renewed their group contracts with YG Entertainment as of December 6, 2023. This renewal is noted to break the so-called "seven-year curse" that often leads to disbandment in K-pop groups 35.

2. Solo Endeavors: Concurrently, the members have chosen to pursue solo careers outside of YG Entertainment. On December 29, 2023, it was reported that they would be managing their solo activities through different agencies, which has led to some confusion about their overall status as a group 24.

3. Public Appearances: Despite the contract renewals, Blackpink has not been seen together publicly since late 2023, which has fueled speculation about their future as a group 1.

4. Ongoing Rumors: Various sources have addressed the rumors of disbandment, with most concluding that Blackpink remains intact as a group, despite the individual pursuits of its members 678.

5. Historical Context: The group's contract negotiations have been closely watched due to the common trend in K-pop where groups often disband after their initial contracts expire. Blackpink's renewal is seen as a significant event in this context 9.

Analysis

The claim that Blackpink is disbanded appears to be unfounded based on the current evidence. However, the situation is nuanced:

• Source Evaluation:

  • Cosmopolitan and Billboard are generally considered reliable sources in the entertainment industry, providing well-sourced information regarding the group's status 12. However, both outlets may have a tendency to present information that aligns with popular narratives, which could introduce bias.
  • Times Now and KBIZOOM also report positively on the group's renewal of contracts, but they may not have the same level of editorial oversight as larger publications 35.
  • Yahoo and Simple Been provide similar confirmations of the group's status, but their credibility can vary based on the depth of their sourcing 46.
  • Lead Stories and Allkpop present fact-checking perspectives that help clarify the situation, but their focus on rumors may also contribute to the confusion surrounding the group's future 89.

• Methodological Concerns: The reports primarily rely on statements from YG Entertainment and the members themselves. While these are credible sources, the potential for bias exists, particularly since YG has a vested interest in maintaining the group's public image and commercial viability.

• Conflicting Information: The simultaneous pursuit of solo careers by the members could lead to misunderstandings about the group's status. While they have renewed their group contract, the decision to separate for solo projects might suggest a shift in focus that could affect their future as a collective.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Blackpink has disbanded is false based on the current evidence. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes the confirmed renewal of contracts for all four members with YG Entertainment, which counters the notion of disbandment. Additionally, reputable sources have consistently reported that the group remains intact, despite the members' individual pursuits of solo careers.

However, it is important to acknowledge the nuances surrounding this situation. The members' decision to manage their solo activities through different agencies may create ambiguity regarding their collective future, leading to speculation about disbandment. Furthermore, the reliance on statements from YG Entertainment and the members themselves introduces a potential bias, as these sources have a vested interest in maintaining a positive public image.

The available evidence does not support the claim of disbandment, but the evolving dynamics of the group's activities warrant careful observation. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and remain aware of the complexities involved in the entertainment industry.

Sources

1. Cosmopolitan. "Is Blackpink Still Together in 2025? Here's What We Know." Link
2. Billboard. "BLACKPINK Members Split With YG Entertainment on Solo Careers." Link
3. Times Now. "BLACKPINK Is NOT Disbanding!" Link
4. Yahoo. "Did Blackpink Disband?" Link
5. KBIZOOM. "Why Has BLACKPINK Not Disbanded After 7 Years Like K-pop's Curse?" Link
6. Simple Been. "Is BLACKPINK Disbanding?" Link
7. Rebel Music. "Is BLACKPINK Disbanding?" Link
8. Lead Stories. "Fact Check: K-Pop Group BLACKPINK Did NOT Announce Disbandment." Link
9. Allkpop. "YG confirms ongoing recontracting negotiations with BLACKPINK." Link
10. Music Mundial. "BLACKPINK responds to rumors of disbandment after their contract expired." Link