LISA Makes VMAs History With “Dream

LISA's "Dream" Becomes a History-Making VMA Win

LISA's most memorable moment at the 2026 MTV VMAs began with a song called "Dream"—and an expression that made the trophy feel deeply personal.

On September 27 at Los Angeles' Peacock Theater, the BLACKPINK star won Best Pop for "Dream." Yonhap reported that she became the first Asian solo artist to win the category.

For BLINKs and Lilies, the significance goes beyond adding another award to a collection. This time, a song from Alter Ego carried LISA into a category shared with some of pop's biggest names, while her performance later that evening introduced audiences to what comes next.

One night connected two chapters of her solo career.

Why This Best Pop Award Matters

The distinction deserves to be stated accurately: LISA is the first K-pop solo artist to win Best Pop, rather than the first K-pop act. As SBS explains, BTS previously won the category in 2020.

This year's Best Pop nominees also included Ariana Grande, Charli xcx, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae, and Taylor Swift.

That context makes the recognition meaningful without turning the result into a rivalry. LISA's work earned its place in the same conversation.

There is also a credit worth clarifying: Kentaro Sakaguchi is the Japanese actor appearing in the "Dream" video. His name in its "feat." billing should not be mistaken for a guest vocal on the song.

From an Emotional Acceptance to "SaWaDiKa" on Stage

Coverage of her acceptance described an emotional LISA thanking the people behind the project and the fans supporting her.

Then came the change of pace: "SaWaDiKa" received its first televised performance.

According to Billboard's performance report, the staging brought Bangkok references into the room, including a life-sized tuk-tuk. LISA moved through choreography and a closing dance break before finishing atop the vehicle.

The contrast gives the evening its strongest story. The acceptance showed what recognition meant to her; the performance put her confidence and movement back at the center. Thailand remained part of that presentation, rather than disappearing as the audience became more international.

What Comes Next After the VMAs?

The next date to save is October 23, when PRESS PLAY is scheduled to arrive. "SaWaDiKa" previews the upcoming EP, as outlined in Sony Music's release announcement.

For anyone discovering LISA through the broadcast, the two songs offer an immediate listening route: return to the award-winning "Dream," then explore the performance energy of "SaWaDiKa."

For longtime fans, that range is the reward. LISA left the VMAs with recognition for one chapter—and a stage full of momentum for the next.