BLACKPINK member Lisa has sparked conversation online after unveiling the artwork for her upcoming single ‘SaWaDiKa’, with some people criticizing the cover and others defending the singer’s creative direction.
The new song will serve as the lead single from Lisa’s upcoming EP, ‘PRESS PLAY’, which is scheduled for release on October 23 this year.
‘SaWaDiKa’ is set to release on September 3.
The project follows Lisa’s debut solo studio album, ‘Alter Ego’, released in February 2025.
Cover artwork: too provocative or artistic freedom?
After the cover was revealed, some online users criticised its visual concept, calling the artwork overly provocative and questioning whether it matched the direction of the upcoming music.
The reaction added another layer of discussion surrounding Lisa’s new musical era.
“Sorry lisa, but can’t understand this pic and like,” someone commented on Lisa’s Instagram post, which featured a photo of underwear with the word “SaWaDiKa” written on it.
“The cover art looks so cheap… she’s trying way too hard to become one of the main pop girls,” another said on X, as quoted by koreaboo.
However, many fans came to Lisa’s defense, arguing that the criticism was unnecessary and that the singer should be allowed to explore different concepts as an artist.
Supporters also praised her confidence and visual presentation, while others encouraged fellow fans to wait for the music before judging the project.
“Queen is backkkk,” one fan said in a TikTok video featuring a fan edit of her videos teasing the song.
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A nod to the artist’s Thai roots
The controversy has not stopped the excitement surrounding ‘SaWaDiKa’.
The title references a Thai greeting, highlighting Lisa’s connection to her roots as she enters a new chapter of her solo career.
‘PRESS PLAY’ is also expected to build on her global pop identity while placing greater emphasis on her Thai heritage.
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