BLACKPINK’s Jennie reflects on her solo journey and entering her 30s in V Magazine interview

BLACKPINK member Jennie shared an honest look into her current mindset, solo career, and thoughts on turning 30 through an interview with American fashion magazine V Magazine.

On December 31, V Magazine released an interview with Jennie that was conducted via Zoom shortly after her cover shoot in Los Angeles. Reflecting on her journey so far, Jennie spoke candidly about her passion, curiosity, and excitement for the new challenges that lie ahead.

Opening the interview, Jennie expressed disbelief at how she still feels at the start of her journey despite her accomplishments. “I can’t believe I’m still saying this. I felt this way even before releasing my first album [Ruby], but I still feel like a baby taking my first steps into the world,” she said. Her curiosity about her own potential and what the future holds remained a recurring theme throughout the conversation.

When the topic of her upcoming 30th birthday came up, Jennie jokingly responded, “You’re not supposed to say that!” Yet beneath the humor, she revealed that she is approaching a new decade with excitement rather than fear. “I’m excited for this new chapter to open. Not because I’m turning 30, but because I have so many things planned. I feel like I lived my 20s with passion and love,” she shared.

Jennie described her 20s as a period defined by intense dedication and hard work. As a member of BLACKPINK, she has been part of a group that has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and made history as the first K-pop girl group to top major Western charts. Her solo debut album also achieved top-10 rankings in 19 countries, further solidifying her global influence. Despite her busy schedule, Jennie emphasized that her passion for music and performing remains unchanged, saying, “I’ll be performing in Tokyo on my birthday night and throughout that entire week.”

Earlier this month, BLACKPINK wrapped up their 'DEADLINE' World Tour, marking Jennie’s return to the stage after three years. She reflected on the experience of reuniting as a group while continuing her solo activities. “We weren’t exactly scared, but we didn’t know what it would feel like to return to group activities and go on tour after three years,” she said, describing the emotional balance between individual growth and collective performance.

During the interview, Jennie also spoke deeply about her personal definition of “home,” a concept that goes beyond physical spaces. “When I look at what I’ve created and feel proud, when I can say ‘this is mine,’ that’s the moment I think, ‘I’m doing well. My life feels good,’” she explained, adding that her achievements and efforts have become a source of emotional comfort.

She further shared how alternating between solo and group activities has brought her a sense of stability and joy. “Being able to include different kinds of music in the setlist through both solo and group performances, and seeing each other’s stages from a new perspective, was really fun. Standing on stage together again felt similar to coming back home,” she said.

Jennie concluded by reflecting on how she navigates success and continues to shape her life’s direction. “If you ask me whether I know how to handle success, honestly, I’m not sure I do. But I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved so far. Looking back, dreaming bigger, and continuing to move forward that’s how I do things,” she added.