BLACKPINK’s upcoming mini-album, DEADLINE, is already facing scrutiny, but not for the reasons YG Entertainment might have anticipated. Ahead of its release, the group’s new promotional photos have sparked significant backlash from fans online, centering on what many are calling poor photo editing and a perceived lack of effort in creating authentic group imagery.
The controversy began on , when BLACKPINK’s official X account shared visual updates for the album, including detailed photos for both the “BLACK” and “PINK” versions. While the extensive preview of album inclusions garnered some attention, it was the group photos themselves that quickly drew criticism. Fans quickly took to social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, to voice their disappointment.
The core of the complaint revolves around the appearance of the group photos, which many observers claim look like individual portraits simply photoshopped together. Numerous users pointed out the lack of natural interaction and cohesion, suggesting the members weren’t physically present together during the photoshoot. “Did Blackpink even get in the room together to take a concept photo for deadline?” one user questioned on X. Similar sentiments were echoed widely, with others stating the images looked “photoshopped in” and expressing general disappointment with the perceived lack of authenticity.
The criticism extends beyond the visual composition. The release of detailed album previews, including numerous inclusions, was also met with complaints about excessive “spoilers.” While some fans appreciate a comprehensive look at upcoming releases, others felt the extensive reveal diminished the excitement surrounding the album’s launch. However, it was the group photo editing that became the dominant point of contention.
The situation highlights a growing expectation for high-quality, cohesive visual presentation in K-pop, where concept photos and album packaging are often considered integral parts of the overall artistic experience. The perceived lack of effort in the DEADLINE photos stands in contrast to the meticulously crafted imagery typically associated with BLACKPINK and other leading K-pop groups.
This isn’t the first instance of fan concern surrounding BLACKPINK’s recent activity. A recent post on Reddit’s r/kpopthoughts discussed a broader sense of disengagement within the group, fueled by observations of members not consistently resharing promotional material. The original poster expressed concern that the group’s current output doesn’t live up to previous standards and questioned the level of passion members are currently investing in BLACKPINK’s activities. While the post acknowledged the members’ successful solo endeavors, it suggested a potential disconnect between individual pursuits and the group’s collective identity.
The Reddit user also voiced disappointment with the rushed feel of the album cover, the lyrics of the single “Me and My Girls,” and the choice of “Jump” as the album’s opener. These criticisms, combined with the backlash over the group photos, paint a picture of a fanbase increasingly concerned about the direction of BLACKPINK’s career.
The timing of this negative reception is particularly noteworthy. The DEADLINE album represents BLACKPINK’s return as a full group after a period of individual activities. The success of the album will likely be a key indicator of the group’s continued appeal and relevance in a rapidly evolving K-pop landscape. The initial response suggests that simply relying on established fandom may not be enough to guarantee a positive reception.
Beyond the artistic concerns, the situation also raises questions about the creative process and decision-making within YG Entertainment. The perceived lack of attention to detail in the promotional materials could be interpreted as a sign of internal pressures or a lack of investment in the group’s image. It remains to be seen how YG Entertainment will respond to the criticism and whether they will address the concerns raised by fans.
The controversy surrounding the DEADLINE photos serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny faced by K-pop groups and the importance of delivering a consistently high-quality product. In an industry where visual presentation is paramount, even seemingly minor details can have a significant impact on public perception. As BLACKPINK prepares for the album’s release, the group and their label will need to address these concerns and demonstrate a commitment to meeting the expectations of their dedicated fanbase.
The album DEADLINE is scheduled for release soon, and the numbers, as one Reddit user pointed out, will ultimately reveal whether casual fans remain interested. However, the current wave of criticism suggests that regaining the trust and enthusiasm of a significant portion of the fanbase will be a crucial challenge for BLACKPINK.
