BlackPink and Twice unveiled new releases simultaneously on 11 July 2025
Cover BlackPink and Twice unveiled new releases simultaneously on 11 July 2025
BlackPink and Twice unveiled new releases simultaneously on 11 July 2025

BlackPink and Twice, two of Korea’s most celebrated girl groups, both launched new music on 11 July 2025, instantly igniting conversations across the global K-Pop community.

Earlier in the month, BlackPink’s Deadline world tour opened with two sold-out nights at Goyang Stadium, sparking a wave of online buzz. The event drew several high-profile attendees including Baby Monster, Jung Hae In, Suho (EXO), and notably Ji Hyo and Nayeon of Twice, a group frequently compared to BlackPink in their early days. Despite longstanding debates between Once (Twice’s fandom) and Blink (BlackPink’s fandom), the enduring friendship between members of both groups continues to surprise and delight fans of Korean pop music.

You might be interested in: Allday Project: What makes The Black Label’s first co-ed group so appealing?

On 11 July, both groups made their highly anticipated returns, further energising the K-Pop scene. While Twice marked their 10th anniversary with a full studio album, BlackPink opted for a single release. At a time when the industry has been relatively quiet, the return of these two third-generation icons captured the attention of fans worldwide. It’s not the first time their releases have coincided: Kill This Love and Fancy came out in 2019, followed by How You Like That and More & More in 2020, and Pink Venom and Talk That Talk in 2022.

‘Global group’ and ‘national group’ face mixed reception following their return

Jump (BlackPink) and This is For (Twice) both drew public attention immediately upon release. From the initial teasers alone, it was clear the two groups continue to embrace distinct aesthetics: BlackPink maintaining their individualistic, edgy persona, while Twice remains synonymous with bright, energising pop. Given BlackPink’s reputation as a “global group” and Twice’s image as Korea’s “national group”, it’s no surprise that the media spotlight fell heavily on their comeback efforts.

Learn more: Coachella 2025: Jennie, Lisa and other Asian performers make powerful fashion statement

Interestingly, Jump and This is For share certain traits, both are performed in English and carry empowering messages for women. Even so, reactions from listeners and critics alike have been divided, highlighting the different expectations and evolving tastes within the industry.

Above BLACKPINK - ‘뛰어(JUMP)’ M/V

In the case of BlackPink, although the video was directed by Dave Mayer, the man behind standout visuals such as POV (Ariana Grande), Taste (Sabrina Carpenter), and New Woman (Lisa ft Rosalia), many viewers remarked that while Jump boasted a creative and distinctive concept, its heavy reliance on special effects and AI gave the overall production a chaotic and less authentic feel. That said, the track itself was widely praised for its energetic rhythm and irresistibly catchy hook.

Meanwhile, Twice’s This is For was met with warmer reception, thanks to its vivid colours, vibrant settings and the care invested in every frame and camera angle. Musically, longtime fans described the track as easy on the ears, upbeat, and well-suited to summer’s lively mood. Even so, some critics felt that while the song was solid, its arrangement and harmonies lacked the sophistication needed to make a major impact on both domestic and international charts.

BlackPink and Twice continue to lift K-Pop’s global standing

Despite mixed reviews, both releases have delivered strong early results. Just 24 hours after launch, This is For reached 10 million views on YouTube, while Jump soared to 31 million. On the charts, BlackPink made a strong showing, debuting at number one on Bugs, eighth on Genie, and twelfth on Melon. Globally, Jump reached the top of the iTunes chart in 47 countries, landing third in the US and fourth in the UK. Twice also recorded encouraging figures, debuting at 23rd on Bugs, 62nd on Genie, and ninth on the iTunes Global Song chart. Their anniversary album premiered at second place on the iTunes Global Album chart.

Above TWICE "THIS IS FOR" M/V

Taken together, these figures reflect the enduring strength of both groups. Jump (BlackPink) and This is For (Twice) highlight the significant reach each holds in the global music space, despite the contrast in their artistic directions.

Recently, BlackPink’s members have been focused on solo projects, releasing music and film work that’s been gaining traction internationally. Twice, too, is expanding its overseas presence, having contributed to the soundtrack of Netflix’s K-Pop drama Demon Hunters and drawing significant revenue from a successful global tour. Looking ahead, both groups are expected to hit further milestones with upcoming international performances, reinforcing the growing influence of K-Pop girl groups on the global stage.

Topics