BLACKPINK’s Jennie has recently come under scrutiny—not for her music or fashion collaborations, but for the pricing and quality of goods at her pop-up store.
Her ongoing project, Complex Presents Rubify by JENNIE, has been touring across Asia, and while the events continue to draw crowds, controversies surrounding the merchandise have sparked widespread online debates.
Pop-Up Store in Changsha Draws Criticism
The controversy began at Jennie’s pop-up in Changsha, Hunan Province, China, where fans and visitors expressed dissatisfaction over the cost and quality of the merchandise.
One of the most criticized items was a four-piece plastic hair clip set priced at 169 yuan (~$23 or ₹2,000 INR).
Critics argued that the product’s material, design, and finishing did not justify the high price.
Complaints included issues such as:
-
- Rough edges on the plastic clips
-
- Indistinct logos and branding
-
- Reversed or misaligned branding on packaging
Social media users described the product as “luxury pricing for bargain-bin quality”, questioning whether the items were overpriced and poorly manufactured.
Hats, T-Shirts, and Other Merchandise Under Fire
The backlash extended beyond hair accessories. Hats, T-shirts, and other simple items in the collection were also criticized for their plain designs and perceived low quality.
Many compared these products to inexpensive alternatives readily available online, questioning the overall value proposition of the pop-up store.
Some detractors suggested that the merchandise felt more like a cash grab rather than a thoughtfully curated collection that reflected Jennie’s brand.
Critics argued that fans were paying for celebrity branding rather than the intrinsic quality of the products.
Fans Rally to Defend Jennie
Despite the criticism, Jennie’s supporters were quick to defend her, emphasizing that pricing and production decisions are often controlled by organizers or licensing companies, not the artist herself.
Fans highlighted that:
-
- Licensing fees, event costs, and brand value often inflate product prices
-
- Compared to high-end luxury brands like Miu Miu, Jennie’s merchandise remained relatively affordable
-
- Jennie herself should not be blamed for production and pricing decisions made by the pop-up organizers
Social media posts echoed sentiments like:
“People need to remember Jennie isn’t the one setting these prices. Stop attacking the artist.”
“The goods are still modest compared to designer labels, and fans are choosing to attend for the experience and brand engagement.”
Pop-Up Tour Continues Despite Controversy
Despite the wave of criticism, Jennie’s Complex Presents Rubify by JENNIE tour continues to draw crowds across Asia.
The tour has proven that controversy does not necessarily deter fan engagement, as her star power ensures continued interest and attendance.
The pop-up stores combine merchandise sales with immersive experiences, photo opportunities, and interactive events, making them more than just retail points.
This experiential marketing approach strengthens fan engagement and provides a unique platform for Jennie to expand her personal brand.
Broader Implications for Celebrity Merchandising
Jennie’s merchandise controversy reflects a larger trend in celebrity and K-pop merchandising, where fans are increasingly critical of price-to-value ratios.
High-profile artists often face scrutiny for products that are seen as overpriced, especially when mass-produced or of seemingly lower quality.
Experts note that brand collaborations and pop-up events involve complex logistics, licensing, and marketing costs that influence final pricing.
Artists like Jennie may have limited control over every detail, yet they bear the public’s scrutiny due to their celebrity status.
While BLACKPINK’s Jennie faces criticism for merchandise at her Changsha pop-up, the overall reception of her tour remains strong.
Fans continue to support the Complex Presents Rubify by JENNIE initiative, proving that her influence and star power remain intact.
This situation also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between branding, merchandising, and fan expectations.
For Jennie, navigating these challenges is part of her growing influence as both a music icon and fashion entrepreneur in the global K-pop landscape.
- What is the reason for the backlash against BLACKPINK's Jennie?
Jennie is facing criticism over the pricing and quality of merchandise at her pop-up store, Complex Presents Rubify by JENNIE.
- What specific merchandise item received significant criticism?
A four-piece plastic hair clip set priced at 169 yuan (~$23) was one of the most criticized items due to its perceived low quality.
- What complaints did customers have about the merchandise?
Complaints included rough edges on clips, indistinct logos, and misaligned branding on packaging.
- How have fans responded to the criticism of Jennie's merchandise?
Supporters of Jennie defended her, stating that pricing and production decisions are often made by organizers, not the artist herself.
- Is the pop-up tour still successful despite the controversy?
Yes, Jennie's tour continues to draw crowds across Asia, indicating strong fan engagement despite the criticism.
- What broader trend does Jennie's merchandise controversy reflect?
It reflects a trend in celebrity merchandising where fans are increasingly critical of the price-to-value ratio of products.
