BLACKPINK’s Rosé, one of the most globally recognized K-pop artists, recently became the center of fan discussions after missing a major national event celebrating her achievements. The singer, known for her soulful vocals and international stage presence, was honored with the prestigious Presidential Citation at the Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards—a moment that should have marked a milestone in her solo career. However, her absence from the ceremony stirred mixed emotions among her fans, known as “Number Ones.”
Rosé’s Fans Express Disappointment Over Her Absence
Fans were thrilled when news broke that Rosé would receive one of South Korea’s highest honors in entertainment. The Presidential Citation recognizes outstanding contributions to the country’s cultural and artistic landscape—an accolade that places Rosé among the most influential artists of her generation. However, when the event took place, Rosé was noticeably missing from the stage, sparking immediate reaction across social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Threads.
Supporters expressed frustration and disappointment, arguing that such an important career moment deserved Rosé’s presence. “She worked so hard for this. She should have been there to accept it in person,” one fan wrote on X. Others accused her agencies—YG Entertainment and The Black Label—of failing to manage her schedule effectively.
Fans Call Out YG Entertainment and The Black Label
The controversy intensified when fans noticed that Rosé was traveling with other BLACKPINK members on the same day for the group’s “Deadline World Tour” concert in Thailand. Many felt the agencies could have made better arrangements, allowing her to attend the award ceremony before joining the group later. The debate highlighted a growing concern among fans who believe Rosé’s solo career has been sidelined due to ongoing group commitments.
A viral fan post read, “Rosé earned that award through her individual talent and hard work. It’s time YG and The Black Label start treating her solo journey with the respect it deserves.”
The Balance Between Group and Solo Work
BLACKPINK, currently one of the most successful girl groups globally, has been juggling a demanding tour schedule. Recent performances in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and Bangkok, Thailand have drawn massive crowds, reinforcing the group’s dominance in the music industry. Still, fans continue to emphasize that Rosé’s solo career deserves as much attention as her group activities.
Industry experts also weighed in, suggesting that balancing solo and group projects is a complex challenge for major K-pop acts. “When an artist is part of a global brand like BLACKPINK, every appearance and absence carries significance,” one entertainment journalist commented. “Agencies must carefully balance both paths to maintain momentum and fan trust.”
Rosé’s Achievements as a Solo Artist
Since her solo debut in 2021 with “On the Ground” and “Gone,” Rosé has broken multiple records, including becoming the first Korean female soloist to top Billboard’s Global Chart. She continues to build an identity that blends her unique artistry with BLACKPINK’s legacy. The recent Presidential Citation further validates her individual impact, proving her influence beyond the group dynamic.
Fans are now calling for more creative freedom and dedicated solo projects, believing Rosé has the potential to become one of the defining solo artists of her era.
What’s Next for BLACKPINK and Rosé
BLACKPINK’s schedule remains packed, with ongoing tour dates and reports of an upcoming group album set for late 2025. While anticipation for their comeback grows, fans hope Rosé will soon return with new solo music or collaborations.
Despite the criticism, most supporters agree that the situation reflects how passionate the fandom is about Rosé’s future. Their message to YG Entertainment and The Black Label is clear: let Rosé shine on her own terms.
