Jennie (BlackPink) Faces Backlash Over Controversial Photo
Jennie, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BlackPink, recently stirred up controversy with a promotional image for her upcoming single, “Mantra.” The photo, shared on her personal social media account on October 7, sparked mixed reactions from both fans and critics. Set to be released at 9 AM KST on October 11, “Mantra” marks Jennie’s latest solo endeavor following the special single “You & Me,” released in October 2023.
The Controversial Photo
In the promotional image, Jennie is seen wearing a form-fitting white dress with printed text, styled with loose, curly hair as she confidently poses next to a sleek car. The upward camera angle accentuates her sharp gaze into the lens. The photo quickly gained attention, garnering over 2.7 million likes on Instagram. Fans flooded the comments with praises, sharing sentiments like, “The world becomes brighter and better with your smile” and “You deserve all the love and support in the world. Thank you for always being the best for us.”
However, not all responses were positive. Some viewers expressed disappointment with Jennie’s appearance, claiming she didn’t look as expected. Criticisms included comments about her stomach looking bigger than usual, with some attributing it to the camera angle while others speculated whether the Korean star might be pregnant. Some comments even crossed the line, attacking Jennie with insulting remarks.
These negative comments were swiftly condemned by Jennie’s loyal fanbase, who argued that judging a woman’s appearance is both rude and inappropriate. Fans defended Jennie, emphasizing that the image was not only normal but also highlighted her beauty. Many praised her confidence, asserting that she deserved respect.
Jennie’s Supporters Speak Out
Jennie’s supporters took to social media to counter the malicious comments. Remarks like, “Such a disgusting criticism. How distorted are beauty standards when a healthy person is called overweight?” and “Why do people assume she’s pregnant when it’s just a normal belly?” filled the discussions. Fans expressed gratitude for Jennie’s choice to post the photo, noting that her body confidence made them feel more secure about themselves.
One fan commented, “Her stomach is flat. The angle just makes it look slightly protruding.” Another added, “Amidst all the ridiculous hate just because she’s a fit woman, Jennie’s decision to share this image is commendable and makes me respect her even more.”
Jennie’s Response
In response to the backlash, Jennie posted another photo on social media on October 9. In the new image, she strikes a glamorous pose beside a yellow sports car, once again donning the fitted white dress that accentuates her slim waist and long legs. This apparent comeback resonated positively with her fans.
“Well done, Jennie! We’re proud of you. I hope everything goes well for you. Try to ignore the haters. We love and support you,” one fan wrote, reflecting the immense support from her community.
The controversy surrounding Jennie’s promotional photo highlights ongoing discussions about body image and the pressures women face in the public eye. Despite the criticism, Jennie’s fans remain steadfast in their support, praising her confidence and resilience. As she prepares to release “Mantra,” it’s clear that Jennie’s influence extends beyond music—serving as a powerful reminder of self-acceptance and the importance of uplifting one another in the face of negativity.
