BLACKPINK’s Jennie has caused a four-day surge in Nongshim’s stock prices.
Jennie previously appeared on the popular American talk show 'The Jennifer Hudson Show,' where she promoted her first solo album 'Ruby' and introduced Korean snacks.
Jennie mentioned Banana Kick, saying, “It was my favorite snack when I was young.” She added, “It does taste like banana but in an unexpected way.” Her remarks went viral on social media, drawing global consumers’ attention.
Following this, Banana Kick, Whale Rice Crackers, and Shrimp Chips became global trends. On March 19, Nongshim’s official social media account posted a witty illustration personifying Banana Kick and Shrimp Chips. The Banana Kick character boasted, “Thanks to Jennie, I got my five seconds of fame!”
Netizens also responded enthusiastically, commenting, “Banana Kick is my favorite snack too,” “Banana Kick ♥,” “It’s now a world-class snack,” “Following Jennie, my new favorite snack is Banana Kick,” “BLACKPINK fans, let’s stock up on Banana Kick,” “I’m going with Rosé’s pick—spicy Shrimp Chips,” and “I’ve been enjoying this for 28 years.”
First released in 1978, Banana Kick is one of Nongshim’s signature snacks, designed to provide the sweet taste of bananas in a single bite. In the past, bananas were considered a rare and expensive fruit, so Banana Kick became a popular alternative. At the time, a single banana cost 100 KRW ($0.08) —twice the price of a bus fare, which was 50 KRW ($0.04).
Made with a corn base, Banana Kick combines a nutty, crispy texture with a sweet flavor. The snack melts instantly in the mouth, releasing a rich banana aroma.
Meanwhile, Jennie’s solo album 'Ruby' is receiving immense attention. It became the first album by a female K-pop soloist to enter the Top 10 on Apple Music’s Top Albums chart in the U.S., ranking 9th. The title track also climbed to 7th on Spotify’s Daily Top Songs Global chart.
Additionally, Jennie set a new record on the Billboard HOT 100 chart.
According to Billboard’s latest update on March 18 (local time), "Like Jennie," the title track of 'Ruby,' debuted at No. 83, while "Handlebars," a collaboration with Dua Lipa, entered at No. 80. Her pre-release single "EXTRAL" (featuring Doechii) also re-entered at No. 99.
This marks the first time a female K-pop solo artist has had three songs simultaneously chart on the Billboard HOT 100.
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