Historic Milestone at Wembley Stadium
In a groundbreaking moment for K-pop, Blackpink has become the first Korean girl group to headline London's iconic Wembley Stadium. The quartet, consisting of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, performed two sold-out shows on August 15 and 16 as part of their 2025 Deadline World Tour, drawing over 70,000 fans each night. This achievement marks a significant milestone, placing them alongside global music giants who have graced the legendary venue.
The group's performance was described as 'riotous' by the BBC, with a two-and-a-half-hour set that captivated the massive audience. Blackpink's historic feat not only cements their status as the world's biggest girl group but also highlights the growing influence of K-pop on the global stage. Fans and critics alike have celebrated this moment as a testament to their unparalleled popularity and talent.
Unforgettable Performances and Fan Reactions
Blackpink delivered a power-packed concert filled with their biggest hits, alongside the debut of new tracks that thrilled attendees. A standout moment came during their closing show on August 16, when they paid homage to British pop culture with a cover of the Spice Girls' 'Wannabe,' delighting fans with a nod to another iconic girl group. This gesture underscored their ability to connect with diverse audiences while honoring musical history.
Social media platforms like X buzzed with excitement, with fans sharing heartfelt reactions to the shows. Rosé herself expressed awe at the milestone during the concert, stating, 'It feels surreal that we're possibly the first K-pop female band to perform here at Wembley Stadium.' Jennie added, 'I'm very happy and proud of us,' reflecting the group's collective pride in achieving this 'epic Wembley dream.'
Despite the overwhelming praise, not all reviews were unanimously positive. A critique in The Times offered a mixed perspective, praising one member's performance while noting that others appeared less engaged in the first half of the show. Nevertheless, the historic nature of the event overshadowed any criticism, with fans staunchly defending Blackpink's groundbreaking accomplishment.
Global Impact and Future of K-pop
Blackpink's Wembley headline joins their list of pioneering achievements, following in the footsteps of BTS as only the second K-pop act to perform at this prestigious venue. Their ability to sell out two consecutive nights at a stadium with a capacity of over 90,000 underscores their global dominance and the expanding reach of Korean pop culture. This event also positions them among music legends like Taylor Swift and Oasis, who have similarly headlined Wembley.
The success of these concerts is a clear indicator of K-pop's growing footprint in Western markets, breaking barriers for Asian artists. As Blackpink continues their Deadline World Tour across North America, Europe, and the UK, their influence is expected to inspire a new wave of artists and fans alike. This historic moment at Wembley Stadium is not just a win for Blackpink but a defining chapter for K-pop on the world stage.