Six Years of "How You Like That": Remembering the K-Pop Anthem That Changed Everything

When Lisa, Jennie, Rosé, and Jisoo dropped this pre-release single back on June 26, 2020, the world was in the middle of a global pandemic, live concerts were a distant memory, and we were all craving something—anything—to shake us out of our collective stupor. Then came that haunting piano intro, followed by the iconic "BLACKPINK in your area!" battle cry, and suddenly, everything felt different.

Six years later, the track remains an absolute anthem, a cultural reset that completely redefined what K-pop could achieve on the global stage. From its record-shattering debut to its enduring legacy, here's a quick look back at what made this release truly legendary.

Record-Breaking Launch: A YouTube Revolution

Let's talk numbers, because the numbers were absolutely staggering. At a time when YouTube records were being broken with increasing frequency, "How You Like That" didn't just break them—it obliterated them.

The music video pulled in an astonishing 86.3 million views in its first 24 hours, setting the record for the biggest YouTube Premiere launch in history and the most viewed video in the platform's first 24 hours at that time. The sheer scale of that achievement can't be overstated—BLINKs mobilized across every time zone, turning the release into a global event that felt less like a music video drop and more like a cultural holiday.

The iconic "BLACKPINK in your area!" intro became an instant rallying cry, signaling that the queens were back and they were not playing games.

The Aesthetics: Fashion, Tradition, and Individuality

If there's one thing BLACKPINK has always delivered, it's visuals—and "How You Like That" took it to another level entirely.

The music video was a masterclass in era-spanning fashion: from the avant-garde, futuristic headpieces to the sleek, monochromatic power suits, every frame was meticulously crafted to leave a lasting impression. But the standout moment came in the grand finale, where the group donned modern Hanbok-inspired outfits, seamlessly blending traditional Korean aesthetics with contemporary streetwear.

This fusion didn't just look incredible—it sparked a global trend, with designers and fans alike drawing inspiration from the styling. Each member also had their distinct visual identity, creating a tapestry of individuality that still feels fresh half a decade later.

Jisoo: The Elegant Anchor

In the "How You Like That" music video, Jisoo emerged as the elegant anchor, bringing a sense of regal poise that balanced the track's explosive energy. Her signature dark hair, often styled with sleek, straight strands or adorned with delicate accessories, framed her flawless features as she delivered her lines with a cool, almost ethereal confidence. Her solo scenes, particularly those set against dramatic floral backdrops, showcased her ability to command attention without raising her voice—a quiet power that proved just as captivating as the song's bombastic drops. Whether she was draped in flowing fabrics or sharp, structured silhouettes, Jisoo embodied a timeless beauty that grounded the video's chaotic, genre-defying aesthetic in something deeply classic.

Jennie: The Fierce Trendsetter

Jennie owned every second of her screen time with an undeniable ferocity that cemented her status as K-pop's ultimate trendsetter. Her ever-changing looks in the music video were a whirlwind of high fashion: from the bold, blunt bangs that became an instant global craze to her dramatic, winged eyeliner that seemed to cut through the screen like a blade. She exuded a defiant, almost regal confidence whether she was rapping with sharp precision from within a crystal-filled chamber or striking powerful poses against stark, minimalist backdrops. Jennie's presence in "How You Like That" was a reminder that she is the queen of the fierce concept, turning every frame into a fashion statement and every gesture into an iconic moment that fans would replicate for years to come.

Rosé: The Ethereal Rockstar

Rosé brought a haunting, ethereal energy to the music video, her platinum silver hair flowing like liquid light as she delivered the song's most emotionally charged vocal moments. Her looks ranged from soft and dreamy to edgy and rock-inspired, often featuring delicate lace juxtaposed with bold leather accents—a perfect reflection of her dual identity as both a powerful vocalist and a magnetic performer. In her solo scenes, she seemed to drift through surreal, almost otherworldly environments, her movements as fluid as her voice. The way she commanded the pre-chorus with her signature raw, emotive tone added a layer of vulnerability to the track's fierce exterior, reminding viewers that even the most powerful anthems are built on a foundation of genuine feeling. Rosé's performance was a delicate balance between strength and sensitivity, making her an unforgettable presence throughout the video.

Lisa: The Explosive Powerhouse

Lisa was a force of nature in "How You Like That," delivering some of the most explosive and unforgettable moments in the entire music video. Her sharp, precise dance moves during the iconic breakdowns showcased why she is widely regarded as one of the best dancers in K-pop, each gesture landing with surgical precision and undeniable charisma. Her fashion moments were equally bold—from her striking geometric accessories to her daring two-toned hairstyles, she pushed boundaries with every outfit change. In her solo scenes, Lisa commanded attention with her intense gaze and confident swagger, whether she was gliding through water or dominating a fiery, dystopian set. Her powerful rap verse, delivered with that signature gritty tone, injected an extra dose of attitude into the track, proving once again that when Lisa steps into the frame, all eyes are on her.

Global Impact: Awards, Records, and a Legacy

"How You Like That" wasn't just a hit—it was a phenomenon that earned the group accolades far beyond the typical K-pop sphere. The track secured them an MTV Video Music Award, multiple Guinness World Records, and critical acclaim from music critics who had previously overlooked the genre.

More importantly, it served as the perfect precursor to The Album, which dropped later that year and solidified BLACKPINK's status as global superstars. The single's success opened doors for the group on Western award shows, late-night performances, and radio playlists that had historically been resistant to non-English music.

The song's message of resilience—rising above those who doubted you—resonat ed deeply with a world emerging from uncertainty. It wasn't just a song; it was an attitude.

Why It Still Hits: The Timelessness of a Banger

Fast forward to 2026, and "How You Like That" hasn't lost an ounce of its power. Whether you're listening to the polished studio track or watching that legendary dance practice video—which has quietly amassed over a billion views on its own—the song still delivers that same rush of adrenaline it did six years ago.

The EDM-trap breakdown at the end still hits like a freight train. The choreography, with its precise angles and explosive energy, remains one of K-pop's most imitated routines. And that opening line? "BLACKPINK in your area!" still sends shivers down spines at concerts and festivals worldwide.

Looking Ahead

Six years is a long time in the fast-paced world of K-pop, where groups rise and fall with dizzying speed. But BLACKPINK's "How You Like That" has proven to be more than just a moment—it's a milestone. It represents a time when the group, and K-pop as a whole, broke through countless barriers to become a truly global force.

As we celebrate this anniversary, it's worth remembering not just the records and the awards, but the joy it brought to millions of fans during a difficult time. It reminded us that music has the power to unite, to uplift, and to make us feel alive—even when the world feels heavy.

So here's to six years of "How You Like That." And here's to many more years of BLACKPINK reminding us exactly how we should like it.