BLACKPINK’s Lisa Makes History as Her Bangkok-Filmed Music Video Becomes the First K-Pop Release of 2026 to Hit 200 Million Views.
Dubai: BLACKPINK member Lisa has achieved another major milestone as the music video for her song “SaWaDiKa” surpassed 200 million views on YouTube at approximately 3am UAE time on Thursday, October 8.
The video reached the impressive figure in around 34 days, following its release on September 4 at 4am UAE time.
With this achievement, “SaWaDiKa” has become the first music video released by a K-pop artist in 2026 to cross the 200-million-view mark on YouTube.
SaWaDiKa Records Strong YouTube Debut
Lisa’s latest music video attracted significant attention immediately after its release, recording millions of views within its opening hours.
According to Thai news outlet Khaosod English, the video generated an impressive 70.8 million views during its first 24 hours.
Its popularity continued to grow rapidly, allowing it to surpass 100 million views within just two days of its premiere.
The opening-day performance came close to the record previously established by Lisa’s debut solo single, “Lalisa,” released in 2021.
That music video accumulated approximately 73.6 million views in its first 24 hours, setting a major benchmark for the singer’s solo career.
The strong performance of “SaWaDiKa” further highlights Lisa’s international popularity and her ability to attract substantial audiences through her solo music releases.
What Does SaWaDiKa Mean?
The title “SaWaDiKa” is inspired by the traditional Thai greeting sawadika, commonly used to say “hello”.
The approximately three-minute song features Lisa delivering rap verses over a hip-hop-inspired instrumental arrangement.
The track was produced by Thom Bridges and music production duo Ojivolta.
Lisa also contributed to the songwriting alongside Bridges, Mark Williams, Raul Cubina, Rachel West and Danny Chung.
“SaWaDiKa” was released under LLOUD Co. and RCA Records, marking another major release in Lisa’s solo music career.
SaWaDiKa Music Video Showcases Bangkok’s Culture and Landmarks
Directed by Bang Jae Yeob, the music video for Lisa’s “SaWaDiKa” was filmed across several locations in Bangkok, highlighting elements of Thailand’s cultural heritage and vibrant urban atmosphere.
The production features traditional Thai influences, including Muay Thai boxing, tuk-tuks and Chula kites, alongside fashion choices that combine contemporary designs with traditional styles.
Several well-known streets and neighbourhoods in Bangkok served as filming locations, including Rong Mueang Road near Hua Lamphong, Soi Ngam Duphli in Sathorn and Soi Chaloem Khet 1 in the Yotse district.
The video also includes scenes filmed at Dib Bangkok, a contemporary art space in the Thai capital.
Together, these locations provide a visual representation of Bangkok’s urban identity while celebrating the country’s cultural traditions.
A day after the music video’s release, Lisa shared an Instagram post expressing her appreciation for the people involved in bringing the project to life.
She acknowledged the collaborative efforts of creative professionals working across Thailand, South Korea and Los Angeles, highlighting the international teamwork behind the production.
SaWaDiKa Achieves Billboard Chart Success
In addition to its strong performance on YouTube, “SaWaDiKa” made an impact on several major international music charts.
The song debuted at No. 69 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking another achievement in Lisa’s solo career.
It also entered the Billboard Global 200 at No. 23, while securing No. 13 on the Billboard Global Excl. US chart.
The release became Lisa’s third solo track to remain on the Billboard Hot 100 for more than one week.
Her previous songs to achieve this milestone were “Money” in 2021 and “Born Again” in 2025, the latter featuring collaborations with Doja Cat and Raye.
These chart performances further demonstrate Lisa’s growing presence in the international music industry beyond her work with BLACKPINK.
Lisa Performs SaWaDiKa Live at the 2026 MTV VMAs
Lisa reached another career milestone at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, held in Los Angeles on September 27.
The BLACKPINK star began the evening by receiving the Best Pop award, adding another major recognition to her solo achievements.
Later during the ceremony, she delivered the first live performance of “SaWaDiKa”, introducing the track to the awards show’s audience.
The performance featured an elaborate stage design that blended the atmosphere of a boxing ring with a nightclub setting, complementing the song’s energetic hip-hop sound and visual concept.
The appearance marked another significant moment for Lisa as she continued expanding her solo music career on the global stage.
What’s Next for BLACKPINK’s Lisa?
Following the success of “SaWaDiKa”, Lisa is preparing for several major projects, including new music releases, a documentary and a landmark concert residency.
“SaWaDiKa” serves as the pre-release single from her upcoming EP, Press Play, which is scheduled to launch on October 23.
Meanwhile, her documentary, Always Lalisa, is set for a worldwide theatrical release on October 12, following its premiere at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival.
The film marks another milestone in Lisa’s expanding solo career.
In November, the BLACKPINK star will begin her highly anticipated VIVA LA LISA residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
With this residency, Lisa is set to become the first K-pop artist to headline a solo concert residency at the venue, marking a significant achievement in her international music career.
