K-pop superstar Jennie Kim of BLACKPINK is at the center of a social media storm after a video from the group’s ongoing “DEADLINE” world tour went viral, allegedly showing her treating backstage staff with rudeness. The clip, which surfaced late Monday and has since garnered millions of views on platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), shows Jennie commanding a staff member to tie her boots while appearing visibly annoyed.
Fans and critics alike are locked in fierce debate, with some calling her behavior “entitled” and “unprofessional,” while loyal supporters argue the video lacks context and may have been taken out of proportion. In the trending video, Jennie is seen saying, “Just do it,” to a stylist who hesitates while adjusting her outfit moments before she takes the stage.
The incident has sparked the hashtag #JennieRude to trend globally, with netizens split between defending their idol and demanding an apology. Some fans claim Jennie may have been under pressure due to tour stress or time constraints, while others insist that no level of fame should excuse what they describe as dismissive behavior toward working staff.
BLACKPINK’s management agency, YG Entertainment, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, further fueling speculation. However, insiders close to the tour claim that the backstage environment is “extremely high-stress,” and that the moment was not as severe as portrayed online.
Jennie, known for her fashion-forward image and cool persona, has faced similar criticism in the past, with some labeling her “arrogant.” Yet she remains one of the most influential K-pop stars globally, boasting brand deals with Chanel, Calvin Klein, and Hera Beauty, among others.
The controversy also sheds light on the pressures faced by idols during large-scale global tours and the increasingly watchful eyes of the public in the age of viral content. While some believe the backlash is unfair and driven by hate campaigns, others argue it highlights the need for celebrities to treat staff respectfully, regardless of fame or stress.
As the drama unfolds, fans await an official response—either from Jennie herself or YG Entertainment—to put the controversy to rest or offer clarity about what really happened behind the scenes.