As BLACKPINK celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, the group's milestone was met with a subdued tone, yet members Lisa and Jisoo simultaneously released new solo music, generating significant buzz. Lisa's comeback is particularly notable for its strong embrace of her Thai heritage, becoming a central point of discussion.
On September 4, 2026, Lisa released her new single 'SaWaDiKa', a Thai greeting, as a pre-release for her upcoming EP 'PRESS PLAY', due October 23, 2026. This marks her first new music in 1 year and 7 months. The music video for 'SaWaDiKa' was filmed in Bangkok and prominently features Thai cultural elements such as Muay Thai, tuk-tuks, and street scenes, showcasing her roots. Lisa's connection to Thailand has been a consistent theme in her solo career, including her 2021 track 'LALISA' and 2024's 'ROCKSTAR', which was filmed in Bangkok's Yaowarat Road. Beyond music, Lisa is expanding into acting, with roles in HBO's "White Lotus," a Netflix romantic comedy, and an action film with Ma Dong-seok, and is slated to perform at the 2026 North American World Cup opening ceremony.
Bloggers highlight Lisa's 'SaWaDiKa' as a powerful statement of identity, noting how she brings her Thai heritage to a global stage not as a mere promotional video, but integrated with street, hip-hop, and fashion styles. Her journey from a Bangkok girl to a global star, enduring trainee life, serves as a source of national pride in Thailand, making her performances and interviews headline news there. This consistent embrace of her background, combined with her unique stage presence and expanding career, positions her as a global pop icon.
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