Jennie Kim has officially been named among the world’s most influential figures, as she makes her debut on TIME’s prestigious list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2026. This marks a significant milestone in her global career, placing her alongside an impressive roster of international stars across music, film, and culture.

Within the Artists category, Jennie stands shoulder to shoulder with notable names such as Luke Combs, Anderson .Paak, Dakota Johnson, Keke Palmer, and Ranbir Kapoor. Her inclusion highlights not only her success as a performer but also her growing cultural impact on a global scale.

Jennie was nominated by singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, who offered a deeply personal and admiring tribute. In her written piece, Abrams described Jennie in the simplest yet most powerful terms: “To put it plainly, Jennie is a star.” She emphasized that while Jennie’s achievements and influence in pop culture are undeniable, what truly defines her is an intangible “magnetic force” that captivates audiences. According to Abrams, this presence is not limited to large-scale performances in front of hundreds of thousands of fans in stadiums, but is equally evident in quiet, intimate moments—whether at a party or in a backstage hallway.

Jennie’s influence stems from a multifaceted career that spans music, fashion, and acting. As a member of the globally renowned group BLACKPINK, she has contributed to numerous chart-topping hits that have helped redefine the reach of K-pop worldwide. At the same time, she has successfully established herself as a solo artist. According to Billboard, Jennie has consistently placed songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart over the past three years, a notable achievement for any international artist.

Among these entries are the remix of “Dracula” by Tame Impala, which reached No. 17, “One of the Girls,” a collaboration with The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp that peaked at No. 51, and “ExtraL,” her 2025 collaboration with Doechii, which also reached No. 51. These accomplishments reflect her ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries while maintaining a distinct artistic identity.

Beyond music, Jennie expanded her career into acting with her debut in the HBO series The Idol in 2023, a project led by The Weeknd. This move further demonstrated her versatility and willingness to explore new creative avenues.

In March of the following year, Jennie released her first full-length solo album, Ruby. The project was particularly meaningful as she was directly involved in writing and shaping the entire album. “Ruby” received widespread acclaim from international media outlets and was included in multiple “Best Albums of 2025” lists, solidifying her reputation as a serious and thoughtful artist.

Gracie Abrams also highlighted Jennie’s personal qualities, noting that her star power extends beyond performance. She described Jennie as someone who carries a warm and gentle energy, the kind of person who would instinctively reach out and hold your hand. Abrams pointed out the unique duality in Jennie’s character—her softness does not diminish her strength; rather, it enhances it, making her presence even more compelling.

TIME’s recognition of Jennie underscores a broader shift in global pop culture, where artists from diverse backgrounds are shaping conversations and influencing audiences worldwide. Her inclusion on the list reflects not only her individual success but also the growing impact of Korean artists on the international stage.

To celebrate this year’s honorees, TIME will host the annual TIME100 Gala, marking its 20th edition. The event is scheduled to take place on April 22 in New York City. For the first time, the red carpet ahead of the gala will be livestreamed, allowing fans from around the world to witness the event in real time.

Jennie’s presence at this prestigious gathering will symbolize more than just personal achievement—it will represent a defining moment in her career and a testament to her enduring influence in the global entertainment industry.