BLACKPINK Transforms Korea’s Iconic Museum Pink for ‘DEADLINE’ Comeback

The National Museum of Korea in Seoul has transformed its iconic facade and interiors into a vibrant pink tribute to K-pop sensation BLACKPINK as part of a unique collaboration. This initiative, titled “NMK X BLACKPINK,” kicked off with a prerelease listening event for the group’s much-anticipated mini-album “DEADLINE,” set to launch on Friday, February 23, at 2 p.m. This partnership bridges the gap between contemporary pop culture and historical preservation, running through March 8.

BLACKPINK’s Collaboration with the National Museum of Korea

For nearly two weeks, the museum’s “Path of History” lobby has resonated with the beats from BLACKPINK’s latest tracks. The album features five new songs, including the viral single “JUMP” and the title track “GO.” This marks a historic moment as it is the first time the museum has hosted a K-pop event in its main atrium.

Immersive Listening Experience

The listening event drew crowds who gathered in excitement beneath an eight-meter digital display of the Gwanggaeto Stele, a monument commemorating King Gwanggaeto the Great from the Goguryeo era (37 BCE-668 CE). The ambient sounds filled the expansive hall, transforming the museum experience from quiet contemplation to lively engagement.

Visitors can continue to enjoy the “DEADLINE” album during regular museum hours at a dedicated listening zone throughout the collaboration. This immersive experience seeks to intertwine K-pop with Korea’s rich history and cultural legacy.

Reimagining the Museum Experience

The collaboration extends beyond music. The museum’s exterior and select interior areas have been illuminated in BLACKPINK’s signature pink. This striking visual transformation is designed to attract photographers and fans alike to the distinctive blend of architecture and K-pop culture.

Multilingual Engagement

Adding to the initiative, BLACKPINK members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa have also recorded multilingual audio guides. These guides introduce eight national treasures within the museum, narrated in Korean and English, with additional Thai versions from Lisa set to debut in March. Artifacts highlighted include the renowned Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva and a white porcelain moon jar.

The Cultural Significance of the Initiative

BLACKPINK’s endeavor aligns with their ongoing mission to fuse traditional Korean elements with contemporary pop culture. Their artistic expressions often incorporate traditional aesthetics, evident in their previous works and performances, such as the Coachella Festival in 2023. This latest collaboration at the museum showcases how tradition can coexist with modernity, creating an engaging dialogue between the past and present.

The “NMK X BLACKPINK” project redefines the museum experience. It illustrates how heritage and modern pop culture can interact dynamically, making historical artifacts feel alive and accessible to a global audience.