Overview
Jennie Kim (born January 16, 1996), known mononymously as Jennie, is a South Korean singer, rapper, and actress. She is a member of the South Korean girl group Blackpink, which debuted under YG Entertainment in August 2016. Jennie has gained recognition for her musical versatility, fashion image, and contributions to the K-pop industry.
Early Life and Background
Jennie Kim was born in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea. She moved to New Zealand at the age of eight and attended Waikowhai Intermediate School in Auckland. Jennie later enrolled at ACG Parnell College. During her time in New Zealand, she developed an interest in K-pop and decided to pursue a career in music. She returned to South Korea in 2010 and successfully auditioned for YG Entertainment, becoming a trainee.
Career with Blackpink
Jennie debuted as a member of Blackpink on August 8, 2016, with the release of their single album “Square One,” which included the hit songs “Whistle” and “Boombayah.” Blackpink quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the most successful K-pop groups globally. The group has released several successful albums, including “The Album” (2020) and “Born Pink” (2022), featuring hit singles like “How You Like That,” “Ice Cream,” and “Pink Venom.”
Solo Career
In November 2018, Jennie released her debut solo single “Solo,” which topped South Korea’s Circle Digital Chart and the US Billboard World Digital Songs chart. The music video for “Solo” was the first by a Korean female soloist to surpass one billion views on YouTube. In 2023, Jennie released the singles “You & Me” and “One of the Girls,” both of which achieved commercial success worldwide. She established her own label, Odd Atelier, and signed with Columbia Records in 2024. Her single “Spot!” reached number one on the Circle Digital Chart, and “Mantra” became the highest-charting song by a Korean female solo artist on the UK Singles Chart.
Acting Career
Jennie made her acting debut under the stage name Jennie Ruby Jane in the 2023 HBO television series “The Idol.” She has also appeared in various television shows and music videos, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.
Personal Life
Jennie is known for her fashion sense and has been dubbed the “Human Chanel” for her association with the luxury brand. She is fluent in Korean, Japanese, and English. Jennie has a close bond with her Blackpink bandmates and is friends with several other K-pop idols. She actively engages with her fans through social media, where she shares updates about her music, acting projects, and daily life.
Legacy and Impact
Jennie’s contributions to music and fashion have made her a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Her success as both a member of Blackpink and a solo artist has solidified her place as a versatile and influential artist. Jennie continues to inspire and entertain her followers with her creativity and authenticity.
