Lisa documentary "Always Lalisa" reveals the inside story of K-pop’s dating ban and her secret romances

Summary

Lisa’s personal documentary "Always Lalisa," directed by Sue Kim, will premiere at TIFF on September 11.
The documentary will have a limited global IMAX theatrical release on October 12, followed by its launch on YouTube Premium.
Lisa acknowledged for the first time that she had a secret relationship during her BLACKPINK era, which she kept highly confidential out of fear it would affect the group.
The track "Dream" from her solo album "Alter Ego" was inspired by an ex, and she has already obtained their consent to release it.

At 14, Lisa left Thailand alone for South Korea and fought her way through the demanding trainee system. To us, she has always radiated confidence and star power. This time, though, she has chosen to lay bare the unspoken secrets behind the glamorous stage in front of the camera. Directed by Sue Kim, her new documentary, “Always Lalisa,” is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 11, 2026. It will then receive a limited release in select IMAX and other theaters worldwide beginning October 12, followed by a release on YouTube Premium. The news immediately had fans around the world marking their calendars.

Related reading: LISA returns to her Thai roots! Pre-orders for her new album “PRESS PLAY” are now open, as the countdown begins for her new single “SaWaDiKa”

She breaks down on camera, revealing K-pop’s dating ban

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In the film, Lisa breaks down in tears as she recalls her time at YG Entertainment, when she had to submit monthly evaluation videos and face harsh criticism. She admits that she did not even dare to speak in her own voice at the time. Most talked about, though, is her first public discussion of the dating taboo in Korea’s idol industry.

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She says plainly, “You can’t date in K-pop culture.” To keep her private life from affecting BLACKPINK‘s popularity, she admits that she did have several secret relationships when she was younger. Afraid of being photographed by paparazzi while on dates, she could only keep them strictly secret. Her words are filled with the frustration and pressure of being a global superstar.

Writing an ex into her songs: The real story behind “Dream”

Along with opening up, she also has an unexpected surprise for fans. Lisa reveals that “Dream,” a track from her solo album “Alter Ego,” released last year, was inspired by one of those secret relationships. Before the song was released, she made a point of asking her ex for permission; the only request was that fans not be able to identify them. Despite plenty of online speculation, she has remained discreet, choosing to preserve the memory in her music.

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From dating rumors to being herself: Taking back control of her life

Lisa’s love life has remained in the public spotlight, from 2023 dating rumors involving Frédéric Arnault, the son of LVMH Group’s chairman, to rumors that she traveled with Thai actor Blue Pongtiwat this August. None have ever been officially confirmed, yet they reflect the intense attention she faces.

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Rather than focusing on who the man might be, what may truly move viewers about this documentary is her ease in returning herself to real life. “Only now am I finally starting to live a life that belongs to me,” she says in the film, a sentiment that is undoubtedly the work’s most moving note. Having shed the burdens of being an idol, she seems even more captivating. Could this documentary also be your chance to get to know Lisa again?

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