BLACKPINK’s recent trip to Barcelona has been a whirlwind of emotions, from heartfelt celebrations to unexpected controversy. As the group commemorated their ninth debut anniversary on August 8th, fans were left longing for more than just social media posts, sparking a mix of joy and disappointment among the Blinks.
The quartet took to Instagram to share their gratitude with fans, but many were left wanting for a group live broadcast, a comeback teaser, or even a new album announcement. Following their electrifying concert in Milan, the members arrived in Barcelona on the same day, gearing up for their highly anticipated performance at Estadi Olympic on August 10th. They checked into the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel, just a stone’s throw from the venue, but it wasn’t long before fans gathered outside, eager to catch a glimpse of their idols.
The excitement was palpable as Jennie was met with an overwhelming crowd, leaving her visibly taken aback. While she maintained her composure and smiled at the fans, the scene turned tense when an individual reportedly banged on her car window, prompting calls for respect for her privacy. Meanwhile, Rosé’s bodyguard was commended for his swift actions in keeping overly enthusiastic fans at bay, ensuring the group’s safety.
In a delightful moment, Lisa waved a Blackpink light stick from her hotel window, captivating the hearts of Spanish Blinks who had been waiting outside. Amid the celebrations, fans were thrilled to see the return of the popular account Blackpink Babau, which promises to deliver timely updates for the fandom after a long hiatus.
Adding to the excitement, all four members received nominations for Best K-Pop Video at the upcoming 2025 MTV Video Music Awards for their solo projects. Rosé stood out with an impressive total of eight nominations, including Video of the Year and Song of the Year. Her emotional reaction to the news showcased her genuine surprise and gratitude, as she expressed disbelief over the recognition.
However, the joyous atmosphere was somewhat overshadowed by backlash directed at influencer Hailey Bailey. After allegedly mocking Jennie in a recent post, Bailey faced criticism from fans who deemed her actions disrespectful, especially given her past interactions with both Jennie and Lisa. Many fans voiced their disappointment, suggesting that true supporters wouldn’t turn their idols into a punchline.
As Blackpink prepares to dazzle Barcelona, their anniversary week has become a complex tapestry of celebration, anticipation, and heated discussions online. What will the next chapter hold for these global superstars?