BLACKPINK’s Jennie has turned a quiet vacation snapshot into a tourism talking point for a South Korean city, after photos of the singer enjoying a private hot spring bath were revealed to have been taken in Chungju — not overseas, as many fans first assumed.
Jennie recently shared the photos on her own account, showing her relaxing in a bikini at a hot spring surrounded by scenic views and a calm, old-fashioned atmosphere, according to Xportsnews. The images quickly drew attention online, with some viewers guessing the location might be an overseas resort.
The location has since been identified as a premium hot spring hotel in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, the report said. The outlet did not name the hotel. News that a star of Jennie’s global stature had chosen a domestic hot spring for her getaway has put the spotlight on the city, which is now preparing a tourism campaign for next year.
Chungju mayor Lee Dong-seok shared the report and welcomed the attention. “Chungju is hot,” he said. “Ahead of next year’s Visit Chungju Year, a windfall of historic proportions has appeared. When world star Jennie goes somewhere, the whole world moves.”
Jennie debuted with BLACKPINK in 2016 under YG Entertainment, and the group has since become one of the most successful girl groups in the world. She has also built a solo career alongside her group work, and she has stayed in the spotlight in recent weeks: her collaboration with Australian psychedelic rock band Tame Impala, “Dracula,” climbed to No. 5 on Billboard’s Hot 100 for the chart dated October 24, marking its 21st consecutive week inside the top 10. She is also set to release a new song, “Someone to Hold,” for the soundtrack of Netflix’s animated film “Steps,” which premieres globally on November 20.
With Chungju gearing up for its Visit Chungju Year campaign next year, the mayor’s reaction suggests the city sees Jennie’s visit as an unexpected promotional boost — one it did not have to pay for. No official statement was available from Jennie’s side about the trip.
