BLACKPINK’s upcoming 2025 world tour concerts in Seoul have sparked heated debate due to ticket prices reaching 270,000 KRW ($200 USD), higher than Coldplay’s recent Korea shows. Fans criticize the cost for a two-hour performance, raising concerns about fairness and rising concert prices industry-wide.
High Ticket Prices Spark Outrage
BLACKPINK’s 2025 world tour kicks off at Goyang Stadium in Seoul on July 5 and 6. Ticket prices for the shows range up to 270,000 KRW for premium seats. This exceeds the cost of Coldplay’s recent Seoul concerts, which were priced lower despite offering longer performances.
Many fans expressed frustration online. A post on Pann, titled “BLACKPINK Faces Backlash for Higher Concert Ticket Prices than Coldplay,” gained nearly 73,000 views. The post highlighted the steep cost and short duration of the show, fueling widespread discussion.
“₩270,000 is just too much…” “It feels way too expensive… even if it’s BLACKPINK..ㅠ” “It’s too pricey. I’m a BLACKPINK fan, but seeing the ticket price makes me not want to go…”
These comments reflect the disappointment among BLINKs, the group’s fanbase, who feel the prices are unjustified for a performance lasting just over two hours.
Comparison to Coldplay and Industry Trends
Coldplay’s recent Seoul concerts were noted for their lower ticket prices and longer duration, often exceeding three hours. Fans argue that BLACKPINK’s shorter show does not match the value offered by global acts like Coldplay.
The controversy extends beyond BLACKPINK. Critics worry that the group’s high prices could set a new standard for K-pop concerts. This might lead to increased costs across the industry, making live performances less accessible for fans.
“BLACKPINK’s pricing may set a new benchmark for concert ticket prices overall, potentially leading to a general increase in pricing across the industry.”
This concern was echoed in online discussions, with some fans pointing out that other K-pop groups like BTS and SEVENTEEN have also raised ticket prices in recent years. For example, BTS charged 220,000 KRW for VIP seats at their 2022 Seoul concert, while SEVENTEEN priced VIP seats at 198,000 KRW in 2025.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Not all reactions were negative. Some fans defended BLACKPINK, arguing that the prices align with their global stardom. They noted that the group’s 2022-2023 Born Pink tour had similar pricing, averaging $176 USD per ticket, making it one of the highest-priced K-pop tours.
“I’ve been to concerts much more expensive than this… And besides, someone like BLACKPINK should be getting paid this much.” “Even if it’s expensive, I’m still glad I managed to get a ticket.”
Others dismissed the backlash as exaggerated, suggesting that fans who find the prices too high can simply skip the concert.
“If you think it’s too expensive, then just don’t go… Why is this a problem…”
However, the debate intensified with accusations of bias. Some Pann users claimed the controversy was fueled by rival fan groups. Comments targeting “ajummas” (older women) and alleging coordinated attacks on BLACKPINK added fuel to the online arguments.
“If our OP unnie is so pissed off about BLACKPINK concert prices that she can’t stand it, then why doesn’t she write a thesis about why luxury goods are expensive too…?” “Saw this exact post on DC Gallery ^^ We all know it was probably uploaded by some fangirl ajummas stanning another group.”
Context of BLACKPINK’s Pricing
BLACKPINK’s ticket prices are not new to scrutiny. Their 2023 Born Pink tour finale at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul had VIP seats priced at 220,000 KRW. Fans at the time also voiced concerns, citing additional costs like travel and accommodation for those outside Seoul.
The 2025 tour follows a similar pricing model. VIP packages include perks like soundcheck access and exclusive merchandise, but many fans argue these do not justify the high cost. For comparison, Jennie’s solo concert in 2024 faced similar criticism when tickets cost 220,000 KRW for a 70-minute show.
YG Entertainment, the group’s agency, has not publicly addressed the backlash. However, the controversy comes at a time when BLACKPINK is making headlines for their return. The tour marks their first group activity since the 2022-2023 Born Pink tour, which sold 1.8 million tickets across 66 shows.
Broader Impact on Fans
The high prices pose challenges for BLINKs, especially younger fans and those with limited budgets. K-pop concerts often attract students, who may struggle to afford tickets priced above 200,000 KRW. Additional expenses, such as travel, lodging, and merchandise, further strain budgets.
Fans also highlighted logistical differences between K-pop and Western concerts. In Korea, attending a concert is often simpler, with affordable public transport. However, international fans face costly flights and accommodations, making high ticket prices even more burdensome.
“In Korea, fans can hop on a train to attend a concert and head home the same night. Tickets are often cheaper, and logistics are usually much simpler. But in massive regions like the U.S. or Europe, fans face expensive flights, long bus or train rides, and multiple nights in a hotel.”
This disparity adds to the frustration, as BLACKPINK’s global fanbase feels the financial strain more acutely.
Current Status of the Controversy
As of May 4, 2025, the debate continues to gain attention online. BLACKPINK’s management faces pressure to justify the pricing, especially as the group prepares for a packed tour schedule. After Seoul, the tour will visit Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, New York, Paris, Milan, Barcelona, London, and Tokyo, concluding in January 2026.
Fans remain divided, with some eagerly securing tickets through platforms like Ticketmaster and Weverse, while others call for more affordable options. The controversy underscores broader issues in the K-pop industry, where rising costs risk alienating loyal fans.
