On December 5, 2024, BLACKPINK's Jennie dropped an advent calendar on her official portal. An advent calendar is a season-based routine observed by Christians to celebrate the entire passage of Jesus' birth, the return of Christ, and the Second Coming.
The Mantra rapper's calendar was packed with daily surprises leading up to a major reveal on Christmas Day. Fans also conjectured that the calendar included daily digital content such as exclusive behind-the-scenes clips, personalized messages, and curated merchandise.
Fans also speculated about collaborations and potential sneak peeks at the BLACKPINK idol's future projects. The calendar culminates on December 25, promising a grand surprise that many believed could be a new song or collaboration announcement.
A few fans conjectured that it could be a "Christmas song." One fan wrote on X:
"Maybe a Christmas song?"
Some fans pointed out the rubies, theater background, and curtains and speculated that the calendar couldn't lead to just the release of a Christmas song.
"When you look closer it’s actually not Xmas theme, there’s rubies, Theater, curtains which kinda bring us back to the whole Shakespeare theory," one fan wrote.
"And 24...1 year since the official announcement of the company OA something is coming," another fan reacted.
"Wow, just like Jennie's character. She is very creative. And her first album will definitely start with interesting things and puzzles." another fan said.
Others discussed how it could also be a hint for her upcoming solo album release.
"An advent calendar can be any theme. Generally it’s a Xmas countdown coz you’ll only get these during Dec Xmas period …" one fan noted.
"It's definitely not a Christmas song.. it's her album date announcement on Christmas day. January 24/31 album. January 17 (her birthday week) pre-release single," another fan remarked.
"The two themes are somewhat similar, do you think that #JENNIE's collaboration with #nudake was really a spoiler for Jennie's album which comes in 2025 and that this advent calendar is a continuation of her teaser? If so, then jennie album must be truly legendary." one other fan added.
BLACKPINK's Jennie left YG Entertainment, founded ODDATELIER, and more recent activities
Jennie announced ODDATELIER’s creation in December 2023, marking her departure from YG Entertainment and her venture into her solo management company. However, she remains connected to BLACKPINK for group activities. ODDATELIER aims to create artistic and cultural experiences beyond traditional music releases, with the promotional calendar being its latest venture.
Since her debut in 2016 as a member of BLACKPINK, she released her first single, Solo in 2018. Recently, she showcased her artistry with You & Me in 2023, blending romantic lyrics with stunning choreography.
Her partnership with Columbia Records, announced in September 2024, signaled a bold move to expand her influence globally. This deal not only supports her music endeavors but also positions ODDATELIER as a key player in the global entertainment landscape.
She released her comeback solo single, Mantra, on October 11, 2024, under Columbia Records and ODDATELIER.
According to Filmfare, the Mantra singer-songwriter is reported to release her debut solo album in 2025.