On March 31, 2025, an allegedly leaked video surfaced online, featuring members of BLACKPINK, specifically Lisa, Jennie, and Rosé. The footage purportedly captured them using a racial slur during their trainee days at YG Entertainment, stirring significant outrage and conversation across social media platforms.
In the clip, the members appeared to be singing English songs, repeating the offensive term without any edits or censorship. This particular language choice has reignited discussions about the implications of using such derogatory expressions, which hold a deep-rooted and painful history.
The Historical Context of the N-word
The N-word is a racially charged slur with origins that stretch back to 1619, marking the beginning of slavery in America when enslaved Africans were forcibly transported to the continent. This historical baggage has made the term extremely contentious, leading to societal debates on its use—especially in the entertainment industry.
During famous trials, like that of O.J. Simpson, the use of the N-word has provoked fierce public backlash, ultimately contributing to efforts to eliminate its use entirely in media and public discourse.
Reactions to the Viral Clip
The viral nature of this video prompted strong reactions from BLACKPINK’s fanbase. Many expressed disappointment, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the historical significance and offensiveness of the N-word. Fans reacted with a mixture of disappointment and shock, questioning why young artists would feel comfortable using such terms.
“Why were they making young girls do this???”
While some fans urged for a contextual understanding of the incident, noting that this occurred during their formative trainee years, others pointed out that both Jennie and Rosé are bilingual, having grown up speaking English, suggesting they should have been aware of the implications of their words.
“Wasn’t two of them bilingual and able to speak and understand English.. 3/4 took the BLACKPINK too seriously..”a fan wrote.
“Not defending them, it’s wrong but aren’t they 15 or 17 here? Why were they saying this with grown ups not correcting them at all and just recording it..??”another fan questioned.
Others pointed out the absence of member Jisoo in the clip, noting that despite covering songs by artists such as Nicki Minaj, she did not use the N-word, exemplifying a different choice amidst similar contexts.
“Crazy cause Jisoo covered a Nicki Minaj song and didn’t slip up and she is Korean,”a fan remarked.
BLACKPINK’s Upcoming Projects
Despite the controversy surrounding the video, BLACKPINK’s trajectory appears promising as they prepare for a full group comeback in 2025. This will mark their first group activity since the release of their last album, “Born Pink,”in 2022. Announced by YG Entertainment in February 2025, their world tour is set to commence in Seoul at Goyang Stadium on July 5.
The tour is scheduled to span major cities across North America and Europe, including iconic venues like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and London’s Wembley Stadium, concluding on August 15, 2025.
Meanwhile, the individual members have flourished in their solo careers since their last group engagement in September 2023. Jennie debuted with her album “Ruby”and launched ODDATELIER; Jisoo released “Amortage”and founded BLISSOO; Lisa introduced her first studio album “ALTER EGO”and made her acting debut in HBO’s “The White Lotus”; Rosé’s solo work includes her album “Rosie”and signing with THE BLACK LABEL.
As of December 2023, all four members collectively severed their contracts with YG Entertainment and have pursued unique paths—each signing with different major record labels. Jisoo aligned with Warner Records, while Jennie partnered with Columbia Records, Rosé with Atlantic Records, and Lisa with RCA Records.
Fans can also enjoy Jisoo’s ongoing series “Newtopia”on Prime Video and Lisa’s recent acting project available on HBO MAX and Disney+.