K-Pop group Blackpink honoured with MBE for COP26 advocacy

On November 22, the global K-Pop group Blackpink was awarded honorary MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) titles at Buckingham Palace. The prestigious honour acknowledges their pivotal role as advocates for COP26, the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference held in 2021.

MBE is the third-highest honour awarded for exceptional achievements or contributions to the community that have made a lasting and significant impact.

Blackpink awarded the MBE

• During the second day of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's official visit to London, he and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak affirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in technology and defense.
• King Charles III awarded the honorary title of Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) to Blackpink members.
   

• Jisoo, Jennie, and Lisa were appointed as honorary members, while Rosé received full honours. Notably, Rosé, a Commonwealth citizen with dual New Zealand citizenship, distinguishes herself from the others who are foreign citizens.

• The members can now proudly add MBE to their names: Jisoo Kim MBE, Jennie Kim MBE, Roseanne Park MBE, and Lisa Manobal MBE.
• The king's orchestra presented a performance of BLACKPINK's "DDU-DU DDU-DU" outside the palace with the statement, "On Wednesdays, we play BLACKPINK."

What is the MBE award?

• The Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is a prestigious award given by the British monarch to individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including public service, arts, and sciences.
• Blackpink's honorary MBE reflects not only their musical achievements but also their commitment to addressing critical global issues, particularly climate change.

COP26 and Global Collaboration
 

• The 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) brought together leaders and advocates from around the world to discuss and collaborate on strategies to combat climate change.
• Blackpink, known for their massive global fanbase and influence, utilized their platform to raise awareness about environmental issues, participating in discussions and initiatives during the summit.

They are the first non-British musical group to join the esteemed ranks of The Beatles, Adele, and Ed Sheeran, who have also received this prestigious honour.

The honorary MBE bestowed upon Blackpink underscores the impact of cultural icons using their reach to address pressing global challenges. As advocates for climate action, the group has demonstrated the power of influence in mobilizing individuals towards a collective effort for a more sustainable future.

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