Why LISA Changed Her Name at Age 13 

What’s her name? What’s her name?

While the world knows LISA by her mononymous stage name, the BLACKPINK alum was born Pranpriya Manobal. But it wasn’t until she was 13 years old that the White Lotus alum legally changed her first name to Lalisa, which translates to “one who is praised” in her native Thai.

Although she eventually shortened her moniker professionally, the initial name change came at the behest of a fortune teller. 

“I don’t know about the culture here,” LISA explained to Vanity Fair in an interview published June 23, “but in Thailand, it’s fun to go see a fortune teller.” 

The trip came after the young K-pop hopeful had auditioned to join South Korean talent agency and record label YG Entertainment. Indeed, the “Money” rapper asked the fortune teller for guidance on her future. 

After the woman suggested LISA change her name to something more auspicious, the singer recalled saying, “‘You know what? I’ll do anything.”