In a recent interview tied to the premiere of her new documentary, K-pop sensation Lisa, a member of the globally renowned group BLACKPINK, addressed the controversial use of a racial slur by the group during their time as trainees. The documentary, titled *Always Lalisa*, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 14, offering fans an in-depth look at Lisa’s life and career. The discussions surrounding the documentary coincided with a resurfacing of a video that featured the group rapping and using the n-word, prompting a renewed focus on their past actions.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/LISA-1-091426-f58c18b8a41a431b911e6c84e203b66e.jpg)
During the interview with *Variety*, Lisa expressed deep remorse over the incident. “I really have to apologise,” the 29-year-old explained. “To be honest, I’m Thai and I grew up in Thailand. There isn’t any education for that, so at the time, I didn’t know. Now I’ve learned and got educated about that, and I would never [do it again]. This is not OK. Seriously.” Her comments underscore a growing awareness regarding the impact of language, particularly concerning issues of race and identity in a global context.
The leaked video, which emerged ahead of Lisa’s highly anticipated solo performance at Coachella in 2025, is believed to have been recorded over a decade ago. The controversy surrounding the clip has created a significant distraction for Lisa as she sought to prepare for her performance. “Everything is real. It’s all there,” she stated about the leaks. “I was just sad because I really wanted to focus on my performance, but things happened, and you can’t control stuff. But I fought through it.”
The documentary *Always Lalisa* features a variety of voices, including interviews with Lisa’s family members and notable figures such as Mike White, creator of *The White Lotus*, who also collaborated with Lisa on the show’s third season set in Thailand. The film aims to provide insights not just into Lisa’s professional journey but also the personal experiences that have shaped her.
Lisa’s reflections on her past have come at a pivotal moment in her career. As she embarks on her solo music path and explores potential acting roles, she reaffirmed her commitment to the BLACKPINK brand. Despite the group’s discussions about taking a break, she expressed a desire to continue collaborating with her bandmates. “If I’m 50, I still want to do BLACKPINK,” Lisa remarked, highlighting her enduring bond with the group following their tour finale in January.
As discussions about racial sensitivity become increasingly prevalent in the entertainment industry, Lisa’s acknowledgment of her past mistakes signifies a broader trend towards accountability and growth among artists. The willingness to confront uncomfortable subjects reflects a shift in the cultural landscape, encouraging dialogue about race, identity, and personal responsibility.
With the premiere of *Always Lalisa*, Lisa aims to connect with her audience on a deeper level, sharing the lessons she has learned along the way. By addressing the controversy directly and apologising for past mistakes, she hopes to foster understanding and promote meaningful conversations about the implications of language in her field.
As fans await her upcoming solo projects, Lisa’s transparency regarding her journey serves as an important reminder of the complexities facing artists in a fast-paced and often scrutinised industry. While her path has been marked by success, it is her commitment to personal growth and evolution that truly resonates with many of her supporters.
Lisa’s experience is not just a story of fame; it is also a narrative of learning and developing a deeper understanding of social issues. Her trajectory might inspire others to engage in similar conversations, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and understanding cultural environment.