Lisa Manobal, the celebrated member of the K-pop group BLACKPINK, recently shared insights into her name and its significance during a candid discussion with Vanity Fair. Born Pranpriya Manobal in Thailand, the star changed her name to Lalisa Manobal at the age of 13, a decision inspired by a visit to a fortune teller. This revelation highlights a fascinating blend of culture and superstition in her journey to fame.
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During the interview, Lisa explained that her encounter with the fortune teller occurred shortly after she auditioned for YG Entertainment, the South Korean multimedia powerhouse that launched her career. The fortune teller advised her to adopt a name that would bring her luck and positive energy, leading to her choice of “Lalisa.” This name translates to “one who is praised” in Thai, a fitting moniker for someone destined for the limelight. Lisa later opted to shorten it to simply “Lisa” for her performances.
Cultural traditions play a significant role in this narrative, particularly in Thailand, where visiting fortune tellers is a common practice. Lisa remarked on the unique experience of consulting a fortune teller, suggesting that in her home country, such visits are viewed as enjoyable adventures, although she noted that she wasn’t sure if this sentiment resonated with people in other cultures, particularly in the West.
Following her name change, Lisa was thrilled to receive a callback from YG Entertainment, marking the beginning of her journey as a trainee in South Korea. Reflecting on her early passion for performance, she shared that her love for the stage was evident even as a child. Lisa recalled, “I feel like when I was little, I never got shy. I love being on stage. I love to express myself,” crediting the support from her family for encouraging her talent.
The trajectory of Lisa’s career illustrates the success of BLACKPINK, which was formed by YG Entertainment and debuted in 2016. Alongside her bandmates Jisoo, Jennie, and Rosé, the group quickly rose to global prominence. Their first studio album, released in 2020, marked a significant moment in K-pop history, further amplified by numerous hits, including “Ice Cream,” a collaboration with Selena Gomez that reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In addition to her group achievements, Lisa ventured into a solo career, releasing her first studio album, “Alter Ego,” in 2025. This move showcased her versatility as an artist and solidified her standing in the competitive music industry.
Lisa’s influence extends beyond music; earlier this year, she made headlines by announcing an unprecedented residency in Las Vegas, set to commence in November. This development highlights her growing appeal and the significance of her presence in the entertainment world.
Moreover, her talents are not confined to music alone. Lisa has also made her mark in acting, featuring in the third season of the acclaimed series “The White Lotus.” Additionally, she is involved in various projects, including a documentary and the Netflix film “Tygo,” which promises to further showcase her diverse skill set.
With her unique journey and the story behind her name, Lisa Manobal continues to inspire fans worldwide, embodying the essence of creativity and self-expression that resonates deeply in the performing arts realm. Her ongoing ventures and experiences reflect a remarkable evolution of an artist who expertly balances her heritage and her international success, paving the way for future generations in the industry.