Girl group BLACKPINK to debut in Japan this summer

BLACKPINK, one of K-pop's biggest next-generation idol groups, plans to debut in Japan this summer, its agency said Wednesday.

YG Entertainment, which represents the four-member team, said the band is scheduled to hold a debut showcase at the Budokan in Tokyo on July 20 and release a Japanese album on Aug. 9.

BLACKPINK, YG's first girl group in seven years after 2NE1, made its debut with "Square One" in August of last year with its two lead singles: "Whistle" and "Boombayah." The songs reigned on most music streaming charts upon release.

The team then also topped Apple iTunes chart in 14 countries and also Billboard's World Digital Song Chart.

The band, which includes Thai national Lisa, snatched up rookie honors at last year's Melon Music Awards, beating out strong competitors such as I.O.I and the Korea-China team Cosmic Girls.

(YONHAP)