BLACKPINK Jennie Named to TIME 100 List

BLACKPINK’s Jennie becomes the only Korean named to TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, underscoring her global impact as a solo artist. (Photo / TIME)
BLACKPINK member Jennie has been named to this year’s TIME 100 list, underscoring her expanding global influence beyond the group’s activities.
On April 15, TIME unveiled its annual list of the 100 Most Influential People, with Jennie included as the only Korean honoree in 2026.
Recognition highlights Jennie’s solo global impact
Jennie’s selection reflects her growing presence as a solo artist on the international stage. Over the past three years, she has consistently charted on the Billboard Hot 100, reinforcing her position in the global pop market.
While BLACKPINK has long been recognized as one of K-pop’s leading acts, the TIME acknowledgment signals a shift toward individual artistic recognition, with Jennie’s solo work contributing significantly to her profile.
Her inclusion also places her among a diverse group of global figures across politics, entertainment, and sports, highlighting the broader cultural reach of K-pop artists in mainstream international discourse.

Industry peers praise presence and artistry
Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, who contributed the accompanying profile, emphasized Jennie’s presence both on and off stage.
“Simply put, Jennie is a star,” Abrams wrote, noting that her energy remains consistent whether performing in front of tens of thousands at a stadium or in quieter backstage settings.
She further described Jennie’s duality, pointing out that “her softness amplifies her strength,” and highlighted what she called an “undeniable presence” that transcends environment and scale.
Broader list includes global political and cultural figures
This year’s TIME 100 list also features a range of high-profile individuals, including Donald Trump, Marco Rubio, and Susie Wiles, reflecting ongoing political influence in the United States.
Among Korean or Korean-American figures, artist Anderson .Paak and Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim were also included, demonstrating the breadth of representation across cultural and athletic fields.
Jennie’s recognition comes at a time when K-pop continues to expand its global footprint, with individual members increasingly gaining prominence in international markets. As her solo career develops alongside BLACKPINK’s group activities, the TIME 100 selection further solidifies her standing as a key figure in contemporary pop culture.
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