BLACKPINK’s historic Wembley Stadium concerts have sparked an unexpected controversy after The Times published what fans are calling an “unprofessional” and “biased” review. The backlash highlights the ongoing tension between traditional music journalism and passionate K-pop fandoms.
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BLACKPINK Times Review Controversy: What Happened?
On August 17, 2025, The Times published a review of BLACKPINK’s two-night Wembley Stadium concerts, but instead of celebrating this milestone achievement, the article drew widespread criticism from fans worldwide.
Key Points from The Controversial Review
| Aspect | The Times’ Criticism | Fan Response |
|---|---|---|
| Jennie’s Performance | Described as “lacking energy” in first half | Defended her stage presence and professionalism |
| Group Energy | Called “desultory show” initially | Highlighted their historic achievement at Wembley |
| Lisa’s Performance | Received praise for standout moments | Agreed but criticized unfair treatment of others |
| Overall Tone | Mixed to negative assessment | Called “unprofessional journalism” |
Fan Backlash: Why BLINKs Are Outraged
The review has ignited fierce debate across social media platforms, with fans pointing to several concerning issues:
Unprofessional Language Concerns
Fans argue that the publication’s description of members putting on a “desultory show” was unnecessarily harsh, especially considering BLACKPINK’s status as the first K-pop girl group to headline Wembley Stadium.
Double Standards in Music Journalism
Many supporters have highlighted the contrast between The Times’ review and other outlets. The Standard’s Ali Shutler scored the concert a perfect five-star rating, declaring that “the world’s biggest girl group are at the top of their game”, showing a stark difference in professional opinion.
BLACKPINK’s Historic Wembley Achievement
Despite the controversy, it’s crucial to acknowledge what BLACKPINK accomplished:
- First K-pop girl group to headline Wembley Stadium
- Two sold-out nights with over 180,000 attendees
- Special tribute to British music with Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” cover
- Global cultural milestone for K-pop representation
For more coverage on BLACKPINK’s achievements, check our K-pop milestone moments.
The Bigger Picture: Music Journalism vs. Fandom Culture
This incident reflects a larger conversation about:
Traditional Media vs. Fan Expectations
The clash between established music criticism and passionate fandoms raises questions about objectivity, cultural understanding, and professional standards in entertainment journalism.
Cultural Context in Reviews
Critics argue that traditional Western media sometimes lacks the cultural context needed to fairly assess K-pop performances, which often emphasize different elements than Western concerts.
Industry Response and Impact
The “scathing” review from The Times has sparked criticism not just from fans but also from industry observers who question whether the review met professional journalistic standards.
Social Media Movement
Fans have organized under hashtags demanding:
- More respectful coverage of K-pop artists
- Cultural sensitivity in international reviews
- Professional accountability from major publications
For the latest updates on K-pop industry news, visit our Korean entertainment section.
What This Means for Future Coverage
The controversy may influence how major publications approach K-pop reviews, potentially leading to:
- More culturally informed criticism
- Balanced assessment criteria
- Recognition of K-pop’s unique performance styles
Looking Forward
While the controversy continues, BLACKPINK’s Wembley achievement remains a historic moment for K-pop. The debate it has sparked about music journalism standards and cultural representation in media coverage will likely influence how international artists are reviewed in the future.
The incident serves as a reminder that as K-pop continues its global expansion, media outlets must evolve their approach to cover this cultural phenomenon with the respect and understanding it deserves.
Stay updated with the latest K-pop controversies and achievements through our comprehensive coverage.
For official updates on BLACKPINK, visit their YG Entertainment profile and follow Soompi’s coverage for verified news.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What specifically did The Times criticize about BLACKPINK’s Wembley concert?
A: The Times review criticized several members for allegedly lacking energy in the first half, particularly Jennie, while praising Lisa’s performance. Fans argue the criticism was unfair and unprofessional, especially given the historic nature of the shows and positive reviews from other outlets.
Q: How have other media outlets reviewed BLACKPINK’s London concerts?
A: Other outlets provided more positive coverage, with The Standard giving a perfect five-star rating and praising the group as being “at the top of their game.” This contrast has fueled fan arguments about bias and inconsistent journalism standards.
