‘BLACKPINK In Your Area:’ Born Pink pop-up experience opens in Chelsea

Hundreds of K-pop fans lined up in Chelsea on Wednesday for a pop-up storefront dedicated to the popular band BLACKPINK, designed to only stay open for a few days.

The renowned South Korean quartet BLACKPINK are making their way to the Tri-State area this weekend for an encore performance of their record-breaking world tour: Born Pink. Fans are hoping to snag limited edition swag for the female performance at MetLife Stadium thanks a shop dedicated solely to the band. BLACKPINK unveiled their Born Pink Pop-Up Experience at 541 W. 25th St. for four days only, Aug. 9 to Aug. 12. 

Answering the rallying call, “BLACKPINK in your area,” which is the band’s infamous phrase, enthusiasts, affectionately known as “Blinks,” started lining up outside of the pop-up venue at 8 a.m., some clinging tightly to the group’s plush dolls and heart-shaped concert light sticks, as they poured over a catalog listing the limited-edition merchandise options. BLACKPINK-themed beanies, caps, t-shirts, hoodies—ranging from $20 to $500—and even a $3,500 electric bicycle were just a few of the clothing and accessories that were up for grabs.

Presented by American Express, the interactive experience is designed by Japanese graphic artist VERDY who has developed a capsule collection of BLACKPINK’s global tour. Those who are American Express card holders had the opportunity to receive early access to the pop-up shop (one hour ahead of opening time with one guest) and all visitors will receive a complementary tote bag designed by VERDY.

Front row VIP ticket holder Will Arevalo, 22, told amNewYork Metro that he wants to make sure he looks his best for his first BLACKPINK concert on Aug. 11, and the pop-up was exactly what he needed to complete his outfit. 

“I saw [the Pop-up] on Tik Tok and I thought it would be a great way to get a head start on looking good for the concert this Friday,” Arevalo said, “I’m excited to go all out.”

Upon entering the shop, which is…