Blackpink, the sensational four-member K-pop group, has been at the forefront of ushering in a new era of globalisation in the post-Covid world. Comprised of Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo, the group has captivated audiences worldwide since their debut in 2016. Their recent sold-out tour has not only reaffirmed their popularity but also reignited interest in K-pop among young fans across China and Asia. This surge comes despite previous geopolitical challenges and pandemic restrictions that had curtailed K-pop's reach.
In the late 1990s, China emerged as a prominent player in the globalisation of K-pop and the wider Korean cultural wave. Groups like H.O.T. and NRG gained immense popularity among young Chinese audiences during this period. The broadcast of the South Korean drama "What is Love" on China's CCTV in 1997 further cemented this cultural exchange, following the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and China in 1992.
However, the bilateral relationship faced turbulence in 2016 when South Korea deployed the THAAD anti-missile system, leading to strained ties with China. In response, Chinese authorities launched "social purification" campaigns targeting the influence of Korean culture. Moreover, Beijing's stringent zero-Covid policy further restricted K-pop's expansion within the Chinese market.
Despite these challenges, Blackpink's return to the stage has marked a pivotal moment for K-pop. Their success has propelled the genre towards a new phase of globalisation, empowering young people and promoting multiculturalism. Fans of Blackpink, known as "Blinks," have been instrumental in this resurgence. The resumption of normal travel to Hong Kong on January 8 allowed Blinks from mainland China to attend Blackpink's concert, showcasing the group's far-reaching appeal.
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