Did Lisa from Blackpink Go to the Military?
Blackpink, one of the most popular K-pop groups in the world, has been making waves in the music industry since their debut in 2016. The group consists of four members: Rosé, Jennie, Jisoo, and Lisa. While the group has been busy with their music and activities, a question that has been on the minds of many fans is whether Lisa, the Thai member of the group, has fulfilled her mandatory military service in South Korea.
The Military Service Act in South Korea
Before diving into Lisa’s situation, it’s essential to understand the military service act in South Korea. According to the Military Service Act, all able-bodied Korean men must serve in the military for approximately 18-21 months, unless they are exempt due to certain circumstances. This is a requirement for all Korean citizens, including celebrities.
Lisa’s Nationality and Military Service
Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manoban, was born in Thailand and moved to South Korea with her family at a young age. As a Thai citizen, Lisa is not required to serve in the South Korean military. However, as a member of Blackpink, she has been living and working in South Korea for several years.
Has Lisa Ever Discussed Her Military Service?
In a 2020 interview with Elle Korea, Lisa was asked about her thoughts on military service. She replied, "I’m not a Korean citizen, so I don’t have to serve. But I think it’s a very important part of Korean culture and tradition. I respect and appreciate those who have served."
Recent Updates on Lisa’s Military Service Status
In August 2022, YG Entertainment, Blackpink’s management agency, released a statement confirming that Lisa had not received any notification from the Korean government regarding her military service. The statement read, "As Lisa is not a Korean citizen, she does not have to serve in the military. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary."
What Does This Mean for Lisa’s Career?
As a non-Korean citizen, Lisa is not required to serve in the military. This means that she can continue her music and entertainment activities without any interruptions. However, it’s worth noting that the Korean government has been cracking down on celebrity exemptions from military service in recent years. Some celebrities, including Korean-American K-pop idol Seungri, have faced backlash for their military service exemptions.
Table: Comparison of Military Service Requirements for Korean and Non-Korean Citizens
| Citizenship | Military Service Requirement |
|---|---|
| Korean | Mandatory service for approximately 18-21 months |
| Non-Korean (including Thai citizens) | No military service requirement |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lisa from Blackpink has not received any notification from the Korean government regarding her military service, and as a Thai citizen, she is not required to serve in the military. This means that she can continue her music and entertainment activities without any interruptions. As the K-pop industry continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how the military service requirements for celebrities change in the future.
