BLACKPINK member Jennie Kim is facing online criticism after claims surfaced that sales from her merchandise could indirectly “fund Israel.”
The allegations spread widely on X in early March 2026. They focus on Jennie’s personal label, ODD ATELIER, and her manager, Jeremy Erlich, who oversees some U.S. operations.
Posts allege that Jennie’s merchandise, sold through official channels, supports Israel because of Erlich’s role and affiliations. Critics described Erlich as a “well-known Zionist,” linking him to her career management in the U.S.
Jennie founded ODD ATELIER in late 2023 after leaving YG Entertainment for solo activities. In 2025, she signed a U.S. management deal with Alta Music Group, launched by Jeremy Erlich. The deal handles Jennie’s American activities, while she retains creative control through her own label.
No verified evidence shows that Jennie’s merchandise sales fund Israeli causes, government entities, or military efforts. News outlets and industry reports, including Variety, Billboard, and Korea JoongAng Daily, confirm there are no financial links. Most of the claims are from social media threads and online activism related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Jennie has faced similar controversies before. In late 2024, she was criticized for posting a Starbucks cup during global BDS calls. Past backlash also involved collaborations, designer associations, or fan-driven blacklists for silence on Gaza-related events.
As of March 8, 2026, neither Jennie, ODD ATELIER, nor Alta Music Group has publicly responded to these merchandise allegations. Fans remain divided, with some defending her and others calling for boycotts.
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