On March 30, 2025, the K-pop world went wild when pre-debut videos of the BLACKPINK girls leaked online. A former YG Entertainment staffer allegedly shared clips showing Jisoo covering Nicki Minaj’s “Right By My Side” with fragments of Rosé, Lisa, and Jennie mouthing the N-word during trainee evaluations.



Critics questioned Jisoo’s vocal abilities, calling her raw sound. In addition, Rosé, Jennie, and Lisa’s alleged use of racial slurs sparked conversations about cultural appropriation in K-pop. Some are wondering if companies are educating their trainees on cultural sensitive issues, while their fans argue that the girls have grown on this issue since their debut.



Meanwhile, others have pointed out that the leaks are 12 years old and that the girls were possibly required to use the racial slurs in their evaluations. Fast-forward to now, the BLACKPINK squad is busy with their solo careers, with each member focusing on their projects. However, they are returning in 2025 with a rumored full album and a confirmed tour.