Jennie and G-Dragon, members of the iconic K-pop groups BLACKPINK and BIGBANG, were once colleagues, but now they are set to compete as solo artists. This significant shift in their careers is generating excitement in the music industry.
Both artists have made lasting contributions to K-pop history. Since December, Jennie has focused on her solo endeavors while still participating in group activities with YG Entertainment. To support her solo career, she launched her own label, OA (Odd Atelier). G-Dragon also made a notable move last December by signing an exclusive contract with Galaxy Corporation.
As they both prepare for their comebacks this fall, anticipation is building around their rivalry, particularly since these will be their first solo albums since branching out. Jennie has partnered with the major American label Columbia Records and plans to release a solo single in October.
This upcoming release will mark Jennie’s first new music since her special single “You & Me,” which debuted last October. Her previous solo track, “SOLO,” released in 2018, surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube, while “You & Me” gained attention with its silhouette performance against a full moon.
Jennie’s influence and popularity continue to rise, and many are curious if she can maintain this momentum after parting ways with YG’s brand. Previously, she showcased her talent by featuring in Zico’s hit digital single “SPOT!” which amassed over 100 million streams on platforms like YouTube Music and Spotify and sparked a viral short dance challenge.
Meanwhile, G-Dragon is also preparing for his comeback this fall. He had initially planned to release an album last year but faced setbacks. On January 1, 2024, he promised fans through his official channel that he was working on new music and would return with good news in the new year. However, he faced legal issues in October 2024 concerning drug allegations, though he was ultimately cleared of charges, which delayed his return.
Galaxy Corporation, which signed G-Dragon, has emphasized that he will be making a comeback in the second half of 2024. While his return in October is not yet confirmed, the company has stated that they are discussing the timing. Notably, close friend and broadcaster Park Myung-soo mentioned G-Dragon’s potential October comeback on a radio show. Additionally, G-Dragon recently surprised fans by appearing as a guest at BIGBANG member Taeyang’s solo concert, signaling his intent to re-engage with his audience.
If G-Dragon does return, it will be his first solo activity in seven years since the release of his mini-album “Kwon Ji Yong” in June 2017. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if he can break this long musical hiatus with exciting new material. As the competition heats up between these two talented artists, the music industry watches closely for their next moves.