The Age-Defying Reign: 5 Shocking Career Milestones Jennie BLACKPINK Hit Before Turning 30

The age of Jennie Kim, globally known as Jennie from the iconic K-pop group BLACKPINK, is a topic of constant fascination for fans (BLINKs) and industry observers alike, especially as she continues to break records and redefine her career. As of December 2025, Jennie is 29 years old, having been born on January 16, 1996, a milestone that places her at the absolute peak of her influence and creative output. This current age is particularly significant because it marks the culmination of a decade-long journey from a trainee to a global 'It Girl' and a formidable solo artist, with her most ambitious projects yet—including a new solo album and major international awards—unfolding right now. The curiosity surrounding her age often stems from the sheer magnitude of her achievements, which far exceed what most artists accomplish in an entire career. From her debut with BLACKPINK in 2016 to her recent ventures as an independent artist under her own label, ODD ATELIER, Jennie’s journey is a masterclass in strategic career development. Her 29th year has been defined by a powerful transition, cementing her status not just as a member of the world's biggest girl group, but as a standalone cultural and fashion icon with complete control over her creative direction.

Jennie Kim: Full Biography and Current Profile

Jennie Kim's profile is a blend of global education, rigorous K-pop training, and undeniable star power. Her background has equipped her with a versatile skill set, making her a powerhouse in both music and high fashion.

• Stage Name: Jennie (제니)
• Birth Name: Jennie Kim (김제니) / Jennie Ruby Jane Kim
• Date of Birth: January 16, 1996
• Current Age (as of December 2025): 29 years old
• Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
• Birthplace: Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea
• Nationality: South Korean
• Height: 163 cm (5’4”)
• Weight: Approximately 45 kg (99 lbs)
• Blood Type: B
• Position in BLACKPINK: Main Rapper, Lead Vocalist
• Education: Waikowhai Intermediate School (Auckland, New Zealand), Chungdam Middle School (Seoul)
• Training Period: 5 years and 11 months (Joined YG Entertainment in 2010)
• Independent Label: ODD ATELIER (OA) (Founded in 2023)
• Notable Nicknames: Jendeukie, Nini, Human Chanel

Jennie's early life included an extended period of study in Auckland, New Zealand, which is why she is fluent in English. She returned to Korea at the age of 14 to begin her rigorous training under YG Entertainment, which ultimately led to her debut with Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé in BLACKPINK in August 2016.

The Monumental Career Milestones Jennie Hit at 29

The period leading up to and including Jennie's 29th year has been one of her most prolific and impactful. While many artists might slow down after a successful group contract period, Jennie has accelerated her career by taking on new challenges, particularly in her solo endeavors. The following milestones highlight her incredible influence and career trajectory in 2024 and 2025.

1. Launching Her Own Label and Taking Creative Control (ODD ATELIER)

Perhaps the most defining move of her late twenties was establishing her own management company, ODD ATELIER (OA), in November 2023. This strategic move, following the renewal of her group contract with YG Entertainment, signaled her intent to take full creative and business control over her solo activities. The label’s launch was a major power play, transforming her from a managed idol into a true music entrepreneur and executive. This independence has allowed her to pursue projects on her own terms, which is a significant achievement for a K-pop star of her stature.

2. The Highly Anticipated Solo Album, 'Ruby' (2025)

Following the success of her 2024 single "Mantra," Jennie confirmed that she would be releasing her first full-length solo album, tentatively titled *Ruby*, in 2025. This album is seen as her definitive artistic statement as an independent artist, moving beyond the sound established during her time under YG. The excitement surrounding *Ruby* is immense, with fans eager to hear her matured sound and lyrical depth. The album title itself, often associated with her full name Jennie Ruby Jane Kim, suggests a deeply personal project.

3. Winning the Global Force Award at Billboard Women in Music 2025

In a massive recognition of her international impact, Jennie was honored with the Global Force Award at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 ceremony. This award is a testament to her breakout moment as a solo artist and her ability to command a global audience. The recognition from a major US music institution like Billboard underscores that her influence extends far beyond the K-pop sphere, solidifying her status as a global music force.

4. Securing a Spot at the Prestigious Met Gala 2025

Jennie's fashion presence has always been legendary, earning her the title "Human Chanel." At the age of 29, she continued her streak of high-profile fashion appearances by attending the 2025 Met Gala. Her appearance at the "Oscars of Fashion" is not just a personal achievement but a powerful symbol of K-pop's integration into the highest echelons of Western culture and luxury. Her choice of a black tuxedo dress for the event was widely praised, showcasing her sophisticated and versatile style.

5. The Global Success of Solo Single "Mantra" (2024)

Released in October 2024, the single "Mantra" was Jennie's first official release after establishing ODD ATELIER and her first solo track since 2018's "Solo." The track was an immediate global success, showcasing her refined skills as both a rapper and vocalist and serving as a powerful declaration of her artistic independence. Its commercial performance and critical reception set the stage perfectly for her upcoming 2025 album.

Jennie's Age in the Context of K-Pop and Global Stardom

The age of 29 for a K-pop idol is often viewed as a pivotal moment, a time when many transition from the intense group structure to more individual, mature careers. For Jennie, this age represents a powerful shift from being a member of a group to an independent, multifaceted global brand.

The '96 Line' and Longevity

Jennie belongs to the "96 Line" in K-pop, a group of idols born in 1996. Her peers in this line are also entering a phase of career redefinition, focusing on solo work, acting, and personal ventures. Jennie's success at this age is a strong indicator of the industry's evolving landscape, where longevity and creative control are becoming increasingly valued. Her ability to maintain high-profile brand endorsements, including her long-standing relationship with Chanel and her campaigns with Calvin Klein, further demonstrates her sustained marketability.

The Influence of Her New Zealand Education

A key factor in Jennie's global appeal is her fluency in English, a direct result of her schooling in New Zealand. This has allowed her to seamlessly engage with international media, collaborate with Western artists (such as her work on *The Idol*), and confidently navigate global events like the Met Gala and Coachella. Her bilingual ability and bicultural understanding are invaluable assets that contribute to her "Global Force" status, allowing her to connect with BLINKs across every continent. Jennie Kim’s journey, marked by her 29th year, is far from over. With a new album on the horizon in 2025, a successful independent label, and continuous recognition on global stages, she is setting a new benchmark for K-pop idols. Her age is not a limitation but a testament to the maturity and experience she brings to every project, promising an even more dominant phase in her career as she approaches her milestone 30th birthday.