“Now I can understand why she chose Columbia Records” — Fans praise representation behind BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s golden crown ornament in ‘ZEN’ MV

Cultural epresentation behind BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s ZEN golden crown outfit. (Image via YouTube/JENNIE)
Cultural epresentation behind BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s ZEN golden crown outfit (Image via YouTube/JENNIE)

BLACKPINK's Jennie has once again captivated audiences with the release of her latest music video, ZEN, which dropped unexpectedly on January 25, 2025. The video garnered widespread acclaim for its stunning visuals and innovative concept, amassing over 8 million views and 1.2 million likes on YouTube, as of writing.

A significant highlight of the ZEN music video was the idol's custom-designed outfit by the brand LEJE. In an Instagram update on January 25, 2025, LEJE revealed that the ensemble draws inspiration from the "Wonhwa," a prestigious title bestowed upon female leaders during Korea's ancient Silla dynasty.

LEJE's design intricately incorporates elements reminiscent of Silla's rich heritage. The outfit draws inspiration from the elaborate gold crown ornaments of the era, particularly the mythical "Jujak" or Vermilion Bird. In East Asian mythology, the Jujak symbolizes both ethereal beauty and unwavering strength.

A standout feature of the ensemble is the integration of over 1,000 meticulously handcrafted metal embellishments, known as "Yeongrak." The lower silhouette of the outfit draws from the traditional Korean "Salchang Kojaengi".

The overall refinement of the design is enhanced by gold metal embellishments and curving jade-inspired elements that are modeled by the regal Silla crowns. The designer wrote in her Instagram post:

"The lower silhouette draws from the traditional Korean ‘Salchang Kojaengi’, reinterpreted with bold tailoring and avant-garde volume. Gold metal accents and curved jade-inspired details, inspired by the regal Silla crowns, elevate the design’s overall sophistication. This fusion of heritage and modernity amplifies Jennie’s bold, distinctive presence, celebrating her unique allure."

They added:

"We are deeply honored to contribute to Jennie’s ‘RUBY’ album. Her genuine passion and dedication to preserving and celebrating Korean culture command the highest respect and admiration. We love you, JENNIE."

The fusion of historical elements with contemporary fashion in the ZEN music video elicited widespread admiration. Fans and netizens praised the innovative concept and the meticulous attention to detail in the design.

One fan highlighted that Jennie signing a global record deal with Columbia Records (September 2024) shows how she wanted to display her Korean heritage on a global scale. The fan wrote:

"Now I can understand why she chose Columbia Records and rejected all other labels! Korea’s pride JENNIE KIM"

Comments on various platforms highlighted the music video's artistic quality and the BLACKPINK rapper's portrayal of a modern-day Wonhwa.

"It's so beautiful, I love how much she cherishes her Korean heritage. And I'm personally a fan of traditional clothing being incorporated in modern media in general," one fan said.
"Korean royal hairstyles in a modern way.. she's insane. she is proud of her culture and adapts it to the modern world," another fan wrote.
"Jennie will always incorporate her roots, Korean Culture in her craft. I love her mind and heart," another fan added.

Other reactions underscored the cultural resonance of the music video's concept and its successful execution as they lauded the BLACKPINK idol for incorporating her culture into modern art.

"She truly never fails to show how much she appreciate her roots and heritage and how proud of it she is,she didnt even have to do this,but she does it regardless,im so proud of her and the woman she is," a fan commented.
"I can tell by her hairstyle in the first sequence. Jennie always made sure that every bit of her works are thoughtfully crafted," another fan wrote.
"Wow…jennie’s dedication to weaving fashion with music and her korean culture always yields something incredible," another fan added.

Jennie's ZEN music video release, solo album announcement, and more

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On January 25, 2025, BLACKPINK's Jennie surprised fans with the unexpected release of her music video ZEN, offering a glimpse into her forthcoming solo album, Ruby, scheduled for release on March 7, 2025.

Directed by Cho Gi-Seok, the ZEN music video showcases the idol's artistic evolution and versatility. Set against a backdrop of stunning aesthetics, the video features the BLACKPINK rapper in a series of captivating outfits and settings, embodying personas such as a warrior goddess, air goddess, fire goddess, and a spring deity.

Ruby marks the BLACKPINK star's first full-length solo studio album. The album comprises 15 tracks, featuring collaborations with renowned artists such as Childish Gambino, Doechii, Dominic Fike, Dua Lipa, FKJ, and Kali Uchis.

The lead single from the album, Mantra, was previously released on October 11, 2024, and achieved significant commercial success. It topped charts in Hong Kong and Taiwan and secured high positions on the Billboard Global Excl. US and Global 200 charts. The track also resonated in South Korea, peaking at No. 3 on the Circle Digital Chart, and garnered top-ten placements in several other regions.

To celebrate the release of Ruby, the K-pop idol announced a series of shows titled The RUBY Experience. These showcases are designed to provide fans with an immersive journey into the album's themes and aesthetics.


In addition to The RUBY Experience, the Mantra rapper is slated to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 13 and 20, 2025.

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Edited by Ameen Fatima
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