Blackpink member Lisa (Lalisa Manobal) takes the cover story of WSJ. Magazine‘s March 2025 edition captured by fashion photographer Alasdair McLellan. In charge of styling was Alice Goddard, with set design from Christian Feltham, and production by Partner Films. Beauty is work of hair stylist Jang Hye-Yeon, makeup artist Pony, and manicurist Anatole Rainey.
Lisa, one of the most recognizable figures in global music, reflects on her career and personal journey in her latest WSJ. Magazine interview. The Blackpink star opens up about her path from an ambitious teenager in Thailand to an internationally acclaimed artist, as well as the challenges and transformations she has faced along the way. With her first full-length solo album on the horizon and an acting debut in The White Lotus, Lisa is embracing new opportunities while remaining grounded in her own identity.
Lisa reflects on her journey with a mix of confidence and honesty, describing herself as someone naturally reserved despite the bold stage presence she’s known for. While working as part of Blackpink gave her a clear role within the group, stepping into solo work felt daunting at first. She had hesitations about launching her own projects, questioning whether the timing was right, but ultimately recognized that waiting any longer would only make it harder. Her upcoming album, Alter Ego, is an expression of different sides of herself – versions that might seem like separate identities but are all part of who she is.
Her early years in Thailand were filled with dance competitions, long before she considered a future in music. Leaving home at 14 to train in South Korea was a leap into the unknown, requiring her to learn a new language and adapt to an intense, high-pressure environment. The uncertainty of whether she would ever debut weighed on her, and after years of training, doubts crept in. At one point, she struggled to see what was ahead, feeling stuck in a situation without a clear outcome. Support from her mother and fellow trainees convinced her to keep going, and eventually, the years of effort paid off.
With Blackpink’s rapid rise, Lisa became one of the most followed celebrities in the world, amassing a dedicated fanbase known as Lilies. While she appreciates their support, she feels there are still parts of herself that they haven’t seen. Her solo work is an opportunity to show new aspects of her artistry, moving beyond what she was known for in the group. Although rap and dance have always been her strengths, she has spent time developing her vocals, pushing herself into new territory. Recording Alter Ego revealed abilities she hadn’t explored before, allowing her to experiment with different styles, from love songs to ballads.
Beyond music, she has taken on a new creative challenge with acting. Her debut in The White Lotus came after going through the standard audition process, where she committed to improving between her first reading and the start of filming. Those involved in the project were impressed with her growth, noting that her performance had an ease that can be difficult to achieve. Though stepping into acting was unfamiliar, she felt supported by her co-stars, who reassured her and helped her settle into the role.
While her career has made her a constant subject of public interest, she prefers to keep her personal life private. Rumors surrounding her relationship with Frédéric Arnault have only increased over time, fueled by sightings and online speculation. She remains careful about what she shares, believing that some things should stay separate from the public eye. Even a simple post featuring matching Bulgari watches led to assumptions, though the reality was far less dramatic.
Taking control of her solo career was a significant step, leading her to establish her own management company, Lloud Co., and sign a new deal with RCA Records. While she was always recognized for her high-energy performances in Blackpink, she wanted her solo music to show a different side of her. She surprised herself with what she was capable of, realizing that she had more versatility as a singer than she had previously demonstrated.
Though her individual projects are moving forward, Blackpink remains an essential part of her career. The group is set to return in 2025, with new music and a tour already being discussed. She is excited for what’s ahead, balancing her personal creative ventures with the continued success of the group.
Photography by Alasdair McLellan for WSJ. Magazine, read more at wsj.com
