Exception of BLACKPINK’s Lisa: Close with Male Idols But No Criticism

In the highly competitive K-pop industry, it is rare for male and female idols from different groups to openly show their close friendships. Even a small moment between them can lead to their friendship being scrutinized or spark dating rumors. This is why one of the largest entertainment companies in K-biz, YG Entertainment, even schedules different timetables to prevent its male and female groups from interacting.

However, Lisa (BLACKPINK) is an “exception” in K-pop, as she is one of the few female idols who frequently and publicly shows her closeness with male idols without receiving any negative feedback from netizens. In fact, many people admire the friendships between these idols in the harsh K-pop industry and support Lisa’s openness in her relationships.

Lisa caused a “storm” with a moment of “flirting” with SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu, doing a dance challenge with her close friend born in 1997

There had been no previous moments between them, but it was not until March 2024 that the close relationship between Lisa and Mingyu (SEVENTEEN) truly surprised many. At an event in Seoul, South Korea, Lisa made headlines with a close moment, even “flirting” with her close friend.

Fans were also amused by Mingyu’s subtle gesture when taking pictures with Lisa. The fact that these two top K-pop idols, both born in 1997, showed such a clear bond made many believe they are indeed close friends in real life.

Not long ago, fans were further convinced of the friendship between Lisa and Mingyu when K-pop’s hottest heartthrob unexpectedly appeared and danced the “ROCKSTAR” challenge with BLACKPINK’s youngest member. Despite having unrelated schedules and little free time, the fact that Lisa and Mingyu made time to meet and support each other’s individual projects proved their strong bond.

Close with Jennie’s “boyfriend” BTS’s V and “Asian heartthrob” Park Bo-gum

Lisa’s connections with V (BTS) and Park Bo-gum are believed to stem from their shared role as ambassadors for the luxury fashion brand Celine. Every time the three appear together in one frame, they “break” social media with their stunning visuals. Netizens even captured a moment where Lisa called V (BTS) the affectionate term “Oppa.” Not only do they cause a stir when attending events together, but Lisa has also shared close moments with V and Park Bo-gum in real life.

At Celine’s private party in 2022, V and Lisa were caught pole dancing together. Although the video did not clearly capture their expressions, it was evident that both V and Lisa enjoyed the party atmosphere, laughing and having fun as they danced.

After this video went viral, netizens were surprised by the unexpected friendship between V and Lisa. Moreover, Lisa was also spotted attending a Bruno Mars concert with Park Bo-gum. Due to his “ninja” disguise, the “Asian heartthrob” was even rumored to be dating BLACKPINK’s youngest member.

Supporting SHINee’s concert and dancing with Taemin

Most recently, the friendship between Lisa and SHINee’s Taemin surprised many. BLACKPINK’s youngest member attended SHINee’s “SHINee World VI: Perfect Illumination” concert in Singapore to support the group.

The two also proved their close friendship by dancing to each other’s latest solo songs. Taemin delighted fans by participating in the dance challenge for Lisa’s song “New Woman.” Meanwhile, BLACKPINK’s youngest member showcased her precise dance skills – not a single unnecessary move – true to her title as the “dancing machine” when she danced to SHINee’s youngest member’s song “Sexy In The Air.”

Best friends with GOT7’s BamBam, and hanging out with Stray Kids’s Bang Chan

For fans of Lisa, it is no surprise that she is best friends with BamBam, a member of GOT7. Both are K-pop idols from Thailand and have been friends since their trainee days. BamBam is also believed to have introduced Lisa to Bang Chan (Stray Kids). At a recent Stray Kids concert, Lisa was also present to support the group. Bang Chan himself has openly confirmed that he is very close to BLACKPINK’s Lisa.

Collaborating on Taeyang’s (BIGBANG) solo track and attending WINNER’s concert

In April 2023, Lisa made a special appearance in the song “Shoong!” – a track from Taeyang’s E.P “Down To Earth.” “Shoong!” also marked the reunion of Taeyang and Lisa after 10 years. Prior to her debut, Lisa appeared as a dancer in Taeyang’s 2013 solo MV “Ringa Linga.”

At WINNER’s concert in 2019, Lisa also attended to support her senior group members. She had great chemistry with Lee Seung-hoon, having danced with him twice to songs like “Money,” “Dancin,” and “Woman.” Though the clips were short, they showcased their presence, dance moves, and visuals, garnering millions of views.

Source: K14