Blackpink Fans National Museum Korea Deadline Release

Lee Ju-young, 25, a frequent visitor to the National Museum of Korea, returned on Friday with a singular mission: to celebrate Blackpink’s latest comeback.

“I visit often, but today feels completely different,” she stated, as the museum’s interior glowed pink in honor of the “National Museum of Korea x Blackpink” collaboration. “This fusion feels symbolic, and I wanted to experience it firsthand.”

Lee was one of hundreds who lined up before 2 p.m., eager to experience Blackpink’s new songs from their third EP, “Deadline,” upon its global release.

By early afternoon, clusters of fans in pink attire filled the halls, many waving the group’s signature hammer-shaped light stick, the “pyongbong.” They mingled with curious museumgoers, while some posed for photos in pink hanbok beneath the museum’s grand facade.

Inside, a Blackpink-themed carpet guided visitors past the historic Daedongyeojido map into the central hall, where a digitally restored replica of the Gwanggaeto the Great Stele stood tall under the high ceiling.

Past the monument, a left turn led to a mirrored listening zone bathed in pink lights, where the five-track EP played in its entirety.

As the release hour arrived, the event area filled with excitement. Camera shutters clicked rapidly, and smartphone screens lit up with anticipation.

The installation seamlessly integrated with the museum’s character. Blackpink’s signature pink and visual elements were subtly woven into the architecture, resembling a curated exhibition.

A gentle pink light rippled through the hall, creating a dialogue between the group’s contemporary sound and the historical weight of Korean heritage within the space.

At the listening booth, fans closed their eyes, some clutching their light sticks, others simply smiling as they listened to the new tracks.

Diep Ngan, visiting from Vietnam, discovered the event while at the museum. “I’ve always loved Blackpink, but hearing their new songs in such a nationally symbolic place feels like an honor,” she shared. “It makes the experience incredibly special.”

Beyond the listening session, the collaboration extended into the galleries. Jennie, Jisoo, Rose, and Lisa participated in an audio docent program, introducing eight major Korean artifacts in Korean, English, and Thai. Visitors could access their commentary via Spotify through QR codes placed beside the exhibits.

The selected artifacts included the Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva and the White Porcelain Moon Jar, among other national treasures from centuries of Korean history. One visitor with earphones commented that the bandmates’ voices made the experience more engaging.

“When they explain the artifacts, I pay closer attention,” the visitor said. “It’s a natural way to introduce Korean cultural heritage to international fans.”

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