Days after Blackpink's 'Deadline' EP set K-pop girl group first-day sales records, subsequent figures plummeted, igniting social media debates labeling the comeback a 'flop' despite ongoing global chart presence and fan support.
Blackpink's third mini-album 'Deadline', released February 27, 2026, achieved 1.46 million first-day sales on Hanteo Chart—the highest for any K-pop girl group—as detailed in initial coverage. However, sales dropped sharply afterward: 7,109 copies on day two and 2,026 on day three. Streaming for tracks like title track 'GO' and pre-release 'JUMP' also declined on global charts, prompting online backlash questioning the album's quality and YG Entertainment's promotional strategy.
Critics highlighted the lack of traditional promotions such as fan events or extensive billboards, compounded by weekend store hour variations. Fans pushed back, emphasizing the EP's sustained chart performance outperforming peers, absence of major tours or physical events, and Blackpink's global stature—including becoming the first artist to surpass 100 million YouTube subscribers this month. All members renewed group contracts in 2023 amid solo pursuits, like Rosé's 2025 hit 'APT.' with Bruno Mars.
The release drew celebrations, including Seoul's National Museum of Korea lit in pink with a fan listening zone hosting over 300 attendees. Fan Ko Seon-a, 20, from Japan, noted K-pop's ubiquity: 'Even walking on the street, at stores, restaurants, or cafes, I hear it.' Kwon Hyeok-jae, 30, in pink hanbok, hoped 'Korean traditional culture will be known through K-pop.' Despite debates, 'Deadline' continues charting worldwide.