As Jennie Kim turns 30 today, she stands not just as a member of one of the biggest girl groups in history but also as a solo artist, cultural influencer, and global ambassador in global entertainment. Jennie debuted as a member of BLACKPINK alongside Jisoo, Rose, and Lisa in 2016. Jennie’s journey from YG Entertainment trainee to founder of her own label, record-breaking solo star, major award winner, and global fashion muse reads like a blueprint for the modern artist in the age of digital pop culture.
A Decade of Success: From Debut to Solo Stardom
Jennie was the first trainee to be revealed by YG Entertainment as well as the first to launch her solo music named SOLO. Known for bringing fierce charisma as the main rapper and lead vocalist, she quickly became known for her duality, delivering rap and vocals with equal skill while cultivating an edgy yet elegant persona.
Her solo debut came in November 2018, with the hit single “SOLO”, a song that not only topped charts but also became a cultural moment, earning Jennie a Best Digital Song Bonsang at the Golden Disc Awards and cementing her as one of the first K-pop idols to make a major solo impact while active in a group.
Ruby & Global Record Breaking
After leaving YG Entertainment for their solo work, the Blackpink girls (except Rose) started their own label and launched their solo albums in 2025. Jennie also launched her first full-length solo album in March 2025, Ruby, under her label Odd Atelier (OA), which became one of the best albums ever to come out of K-pop. She sold over one million copies globally in her first week, reaching the top 10 in 19 countries and making history with placements in charts including the UK Albums Chart top three, a record among Korean soloists.
Her title track, “Like Jennie”, not only became a worldwide hit but also extended her record of Billboard Global 200 top-ten entries, surpassing even her BLACKPINK bandmates in solo achievements.
Her singles “Mantra”, “Like Jennie”, and “ExtraL” have earned multiple RIAA Gold certifications, making her the first K-pop solo artist with three RIAA‐certified songs, a testament to her international image.
Awards, Recognition, and Industry Honours
Jennie’s awards need their own shelf, her dominance as a global artist, from major Korean music awards to international recognition, has earned her numerous awards over the years such as:
- Global Force Award at Billboard Women in Music 2025, the first Korean soloist to receive a Billboard honour.
- Artist of the Year Daesang at the 40th Golden Disc Awards (2026), a grand prize in Korean music.
- Multiple Melon Music Awards, MAMA Awards, and a record-setting Record of the Year daesang for Ruby and its singles.
Her live performances, including at Coachella 2025 have drawn global attention for her commanding stage presence with both group and solo material.
Fashion, Brand Power & Cultural Influence
Jennie’s impact extends beyond music into high fashion and brand influence. She is a global ambassador for Chanel and a high-profile partner with Calvin Klein, she has become synonymous with luxury and style, earning the nickname “Human Chanel” for her enduring presence in major fashion campaigns.
Her red-carpet appearances, including a stunning couture moment at the 40th Golden Disc Awards in Taipei continually make headlines. The BLACKPINK girls are not just the biggest girl group but also the biggest soloists.
What’s Next in 2026
YG Entertainment, through its official site, declared that BLACKPINK’S third mini album, after almost three years, would be released on 27 February this year. Jennie being a part of BLACKPINK, is again at the centre of both her solo and the group’s comeback.
Her legacy, already rich with milestones, continues to evolve not merely as a K-pop idol but as a global music and fashion powerhouse who has helped together with her bandmates, to redefine what it feels like to be revolutionary.
