A Noisy 10th Anniversary..BLACKPINK's 'Whistle' Hype Launched at Debut [Choi Hye-jin's Latte]

*This content was translated by AI.

[Editor’s Note] Reporter Choi Hye-jin introduces hit songs she enjoyed during her "Latte" days.

Ten years ago, the group BLACKPINK (Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo) sparked a 'Whistle' frenzy upon debut. However, this year, as they marked their 10th anniversary, they celebrated in an atmosphere quite different from back then.

On August 8, 2016, BLACKPINK debuted by releasing the single album 'Square One'. With 'Whistle' and 'Boombayah' as double title tracks, BLACKPINK immediately climbed to the top of music charts upon debut.

In particular, 'Whistle' was widely loved as BLACKPINK's debut song. The minimalist hip-hop track captured a dreamy yet sexy atmosphere, with lyrics expressing that true love is unique and conveying the desire to confirm that love.

The melody themed around whistling and water drop effects created an addictive quality. As a result, 'Whistle' reached the top of major music sites within just one hour of its release. The simultaneously released 'Boombayah' also entered the upper ranks of the charts.

In fact, 'Whistle' secured the number one spot on Melon's comprehensive weekly chart for two consecutive weeks in the second week (August 8–14) and third week (the 15th–21) of August 2016. This marked a back-to-back top position for a debut song.

BLACKPINK, who received public love immediately after their debut, reached their 10th anniversary ten years later. However, unlike a decade ago, this year's anniversary event held on the 8th left regrets due to various controversies surrounding the celebration.

Their agency, YG Entertainment, only announced the event two days prior and did not disclose specific times or locations. Furthermore, they informed that "only some members who could attend due to schedules would be present," sparking fan dissatisfaction.

Although it was later confirmed that all four members would attend, the disappointment continued. Critics pointed out that the number of invited guests was limited to just 40, and the event lasted only about 30 minutes, failing to provide a sufficient opportunity for communication with fans.

Reports also emerged that citizens experienced inconvenience as certain areas were restricted and workshop schedules were changed, leading to official complaints. It is also known that the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is considering conducting an investigation.

In response, the members directly apologized to their fans. Jisoo stated via a fan platform, "I think this anniversary was a day filled with great regret," adding, "It weighs heavily on my heart knowing so many Blink are upset."

Rosé also shared through social media, "As we welcomed this 10th anniversary that I waited for just as much as the Blincks, I felt significant disappointment. During that time, it seems I made you feel even more lonely, which weighs heavily on my heart."

BLACKPINK debuted in 2016 with 'Whistle' and recorded a number one spot on music charts. However, the anniversary marking their 10th year since debut concluded with controversies surrounding event operations, unlike the past. The debut and 10th anniversary of BLACKPINK ten years ago and ten years later were recorded in vastly different ways.

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*This content was translated by AI.