Lisa: Global Rockstar
Lisa Manobal, known as Lisa, is a Thai rapper, singer, and dancer who gained worldwide fame as a member of the South Korean girl group BLACKPINK. Her incredible journey from a young girl in Thailand to becoming a global icon in K-pop is nothing short of remarkable.
Born Pranpriya Manobal on March 27, 1997, in Buriram Province, Thailand, Lisa later changed her name to Lalisa, meaning "the one being praised." From a young age, she was drawn to music and dance, participating in numerous competitions. At age 13, she auditioned for YG Entertainment in Thailand, and out of 4,000 applicants, she was the only one accepted. Moving to South Korea in 2011, Lisa became YG's first non-Korean trainee. After years of training, she debuted with BLACKPINK in 2016, quickly rising to fame with hit songs like "Whistle" and "Boombayah."
Lisa's solo career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements. In 2021, Lisa launched her solo career with the debut single album Lalisa, which broke numerous records, making her the first female artist in South Korea to sell over 736,000 copies in one week. The music video for the lead single, "Lalisa," set a new record for the most views in the first 24 hours for a solo artist.
Her follow-up single, "Money," also became a global sensation, with the single reaching the top ten on the Billboard Global 200 and becoming the longest-charting song by a female K-pop soloist.
Lisa's success has extended beyond music as she has been selected as a global ambassador for brands like Bulgari, Celine, and MAC Cosmetics, and she has made her mark in the fashion world. Her unique style and influence have also made her the most-followed K-pop artist on Instagram, solidifying her as a cultural icon.
In 2024, Lisa made headlines again by launching her own management company, Lloud, and signing with RCA Records, giving her full control over her music career. Her single "Rockstar" became her first number-one hit on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart. She also announced her acting debut in the HBO series The White Lotus, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Most recently, she released “NEW WOMAN,” a collaboration with Rosalia that highlighted the diverse backgrounds of both artists.
Lisa's influence extends beyond entertainment, as she was honored by the Thailand Ministry of Culture for promoting Thai culture globally. Lisa’s journey from a young girl in Thailand to one of the most recognized figures in global pop culture is a testament to her talent, hard work, and determination. Her impact on K-pop and beyond continues to grow, as she breaks new records and pushes boundaries in music, fashion, and now acting.