Thai singer and actress Lalisa Manoban, better known as Lisa from the globally renowned K-pop group Blackpink, has etched her name in history as the first K-pop artist to perform at the Academy Awards. On Sunday, during the 97th Annual Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, Lisa captivated audiences with a tribute to the iconic James Bond film series, marking a significant milestone for K-pop on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.
Dressed in a sleek black gown, Lisa delivered a powerful rendition of “Live and Let Die,” the theme song from the 1973 Bond film of the same name. Her performance, which followed a tango by actress Margaret Qualley, was part of a broader montage celebrating the legacy of the 007 franchise. The moment was not just a personal triumph for the artist but also a cultural breakthrough, highlighting the growing global influence of K-pop and South East Asian talent in Hollywood.
Lisa’s appearance at the Oscars wasn’t limited to her performance. She also turned heads on the red carpet with a striking tuxedo-inspired look that blended elegance with edge, embodying her signature style. The outfit, paired with her confident demeanour, drew widespread praise on social media and cemented her status as a fashion icon. 
Following her performance, American rapper Doja Cat and British singer-songwriter Raye joined the Bond tribute, performing “Diamonds Are Forever” and “Skyfall” respectively. Initial speculation had suggested that the trio might perform “Born Again,” a recent collaborative single featuring Lisa and Raye, but the focus remained on honouring the cinematic legacy of James Bond. The seamless integration of artists from diverse musical backgrounds underscored the universal appeal of the franchise and the Oscars’ commitment to celebrating global talent.
Lisa’s historic moment at the Oscars is a testament to the meteoric rise of Blackpink, a group that has shattered barriers since their debut in 2016. Hailing from Thailand, Lisa has often spoken about her pride in representing her home country on the world stage. Her journey from a trainee in South Korea to a global superstar reflects the increasing visibility of South East Asian artists in the entertainment industry. Born in Buriram, a province in Thailand’s north-east, Lisa’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring performers across the region.
The significance of her Oscars performance extends beyond music. It represents a cultural bridge between South East Asia and Hollywood, a space historically dominated by Western artists. K-pop, once a niche genre, has become a global phenomenon, with acts like Blackpink and BTS paving the way for greater diversity in mainstream entertainment. Lisa’s appearance at the Academy Awards signals that this influence is now being recognised at the highest levels of the industry.
While the performance was a highlight of the evening, it also sparked discussions among fans and critics about the future of K-pop collaborations in Hollywood. Could this open doors for more Asian artists to perform at such events, or even be recognised in acting and production categories at the Oscars? While these possibilities remain speculative, Lisa’s achievement has undoubtedly set a precedent.
Beyond her musical talents, Lisa’s presence at the Oscars also highlighted her growing influence as a cultural ambassador for Thailand. Over the years, she has used her platform to promote Thai culture, often incorporating traditional elements into her performances and public appearances. Her success resonates deeply in South East Asia, where fans see her as a symbol of what can be achieved through talent and determination.
As the first K-pop artist to grace the Oscars stage, Lisa has not only made history but also raised the bar for what South East Asian artists can achieve on the global stage. Her performance was more than just a musical act; it was a statement of cultural pride and a celebration of diversity in entertainment. For fans across Thailand and beyond, it was a moment to cherish—one that will likely inspire the next generation of performers to dream bigger and reach further.
With Blackpink continuing to dominate charts and break records, and with Lisa’s solo career gaining momentum, her Oscars performance is a reminder of the boundless potential of K-pop and its stars. As the world watches, one thing is clear: Lalisa Manoban is not just a performer—she’s a trailblazer.
