Blackpink member Jennie Kim stars in the cover story of American Harper’s Bazaar Magazine‘s October 2024 edition lensed by fashion photographer Zoë Ghertner. In charge of styling was Carlos Nazario, with set design from Spencer Vrooman, and production by Ben Gutierrez at AP Studio. Beauty is work of hair stylist Gabe Sin, makeup artist Sol Lee, and manicurist Zola Ganzorigt for OPI.
In her interview with Harper’s Bazaar, k-pop superstar Jennie Kim offers a rare glimpse into her personal and professional life, sharing insights into the challenges and triumphs of balancing global stardom with her own sense of identity. As a member of Blackpink and a rising solo artist, Jennie is at a crucial moment in her career, one where she’s making deliberate choices about the path she wants to take. The interview reveals a more introspective Jennie, a woman who, despite the pressures of fame, is determined to carve out space for herself amidst the whirlwind of the K-pop industry and international stardom.
Jennie speaks candidly about the public scrutiny she faces daily. Whether it’s paparazzi following her every move at fashion shows or fans documenting her appearances, Jennie has become accustomed to living in a fishbowl. She acknowledges that this has led her to adopt a certain posture when in the public eye, a switch she can flip on when needed. “Anyone who meets me will say I’m so far from what I represent as me onstage,” she explains.
Much of the interview focuses on Jennie’s solo career, specifically the intense creative process behind her upcoming debut album. She reveals that she has spent countless hours in the studio, refining lyrics and vocals, ensuring every element feels true to her. The project, as she describes it, is a form of self-expression, allowing her to explore new creative territories while staying connected to her roots. It’s an opportunity for Jennie to bring herself to the world in a way that feels more personal and direct than her previous work with Blackpink.
Her reflections in the interview also touch on the unique pressures of being a K-pop idol, where every action, even something as small as a spontaneous night out with friends, can spark headlines. Jennie recounts how a video of her vaping in Italy quickly turned into a controversy, leading her to issue an apology. This incident underscores the constant balancing act she faces – living under the scrutiny of fans while trying to stay true to her own desires. It’s a challenge she addresses with maturity, expressing her understanding of the cultural context that shapes her fans’ reactions.
The discussion also shifts to her relationships with her Blackpink bandmates, whom she holds in high regard. Jennie speaks warmly about the bond they share and the lessons she’s learned from them over the years. Despite her solo endeavors, she is keenly aware of the impact Blackpink has had on her life and career, and she expresses a deep sense of gratitude toward both her group and their dedicated fans, known as Blinks. This gratitude is something she carries with her as she ventures into solo work, aiming to stay grounded while exploring new creative outlets.
Fashion plays a significant role in Jennie’s life, and the Harper’s Bazaar interview wouldn’t be complete without touching on her relationship with the industry. Jennie has become a fixture at events like Paris Fashion Week and has worked closely with iconic brands like Chanel. In the interview, she fondly recalls her interactions with the late Karl Lagerfeld and how those moments shaped her style and relationship with fashion. Her status as a fashion icon, however, is not something she takes lightly. She reflects on how her mother influenced her style from a young age, and how this personal connection to fashion continues to inform her choices today.
Throughout the Harper’s Bazaar interview, Jennie emphasizes that while Blackpink will always be a part of her, she is excited for fans to experience a new side of her through her solo work. As she continues to evolve both as an artist and as an individual, she is determined to stay true to herself, even as she navigates the pressures of fame.
Photography © Zoë Ghertner for Harper’s Bazaar, read more at harpersbazaar.com
