Despite domestic controversy regarding BLACKPINK's performance at Coachella, international media continue to shower the group with accolades.

On April 15, BLACKPINK took to the stage as headliners at the United States' largest music festival, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The group performed a series of their hit songs, including "Pink Venom," "Kill This Love," "How You Like That," and "Pretty Savage." Their setlist encompassed their seven-year career, from their debut track "BOOMBAYAH" to their latest title track "Shut Down."

However, Kim Do-heon, a music critic and former editor, criticized BLACKPINK's Coachella performance on Facebook, stating that their superficial and lightweight approach would not have emerged if they had taken the role of Coachella headliner seriously. Kim argued that BLACKPINK should have showcased more than just their beauty and fame, considering the significance of being the first K-pop and Asian female group to headline an American festival.

Despite the heated debate online, foreign media outlets offered a different perspective on BLACKPINK's performance. British publication The Guardian awarded the group four out of five stars, praising their ability to break down language and cultural barriers in the music industry. The Guardian noted that their performance was a "feast of notes and colors" and described it as extremely dazzling.

 

The publication also commended BLACKPINK's stage setup and said that the group had the stamina to perform as headliners. They managed to win over non-fan audiences, making them chant "BLACKPINK in your area" multiple times. However, The Guardian deducted a point for the structure of the performance, which featured solo stages for each member.

American music magazine Billboard lauded the group for their historic and monumental performance, stating that Jennie, Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa each had their moments to shine individually. The publication acknowledged their skills and narrative, emphasizing the praise from those who watched BLACKPINK's performance in person.

Rosé, who had her first Coachella experience four years ago on a sub-stage, expressed her elation at headlining the festival, saying it felt like a dream come true. Following their successful Coachella performance, BLACKPINK is set to become the first K-pop artist to headline the UK's prestigious Hyde Park British Summer Time Festival in July.

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