LISA's debut EP, Press Play, drops on October 23, 2026, and the lead-up has been one of the biggest in K-pop history. The lead single "SaWaDiKa" set the record for the biggest music video debut of 2026, and LISA just became the first K-pop soloist to win Best Pop at the MTV VMAs. Here's what "SaWaDiKa" is about, every confirmed detail about the 6-track EP, and what to watch for before the drop.
Watch "SaWaDiKa"
The official music video for "SaWaDiKa," filmed in Bangkok and directed by Bang Jae Yeob.
"SaWaDiKa" is the lead single from Press Play. It came out on September 3, 2026, and it landed with one of the biggest first days any music video has ever seen.
When "SaWaDiKa" Came Out
The "SaWaDiKa" music video pulled 73.3 million views in its first 24 hours. That's the biggest music video debut of 2026, and the 8th biggest of all time.
Three weeks later, LISA took the stage at the 2026 MTV VMAs on Sunday, September 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. She gave "SaWaDiKa" its live debut there, with a staging that blended a boxing ring and a nightclub.
That same night, she won Best Pop for "Dream," beating Taylor Swift ("The Fate of Ophelia"), Ariana Grande ("Hate That I Made You Love Me"), and Olivia Rodrigo ("Drop Dead").
(More: Taylor Swift's "The Fate of Ophelia" at the 2026 VMAs.)
It was the first time a K-pop soloist had ever won the category. Her acceptance speech: "All those late night dreams brought me here today."
(More: LISA at the 2026 VMAs: the Best Pop win, the "SaWaDiKa" live debut, and the full recap.)
LISA performing "SaWaDiKa" live for the first time at the 2026 MTV VMAs.
"SaWaDiKa" Lyrics Meaning
The title is a phonetic version of the Thai greeting "sawatdee ka," which means "hello." LISA is Thai, and the word opens the song as a direct address to the listener.
The music video leans into it. Directed by Bang Jae Yeob and shot in Bangkok, it features Hua Lamphong Railway Station, tuk-tuks, and Muay Thai imagery. It's a visual love letter to the city.
"SaWaDiKa" was co-written by LISA alongside Thom Bridges, Mark Williams, Raul Cubina, Rachel West, and Danny Chung. Bridges and Ojivolta produced the track.
What Else Is on Press Play
Press Play has 6 tracks. LISA described the project as "like a movie," with each song having its own distinct character.
The EP comes out through LLOUD and RCA Records. It's LISA's first EP, following her 2025 debut solo album Alter Ego.
The campaign started in August 2026. Red billboards reading "Hello สวัสดีค่ะ" appeared in Bangkok, New York, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. The EP was officially announced on August 24.
One more single is coming before October 23. Track 4 is confirmed as the second single. LISA has said its title starts with the letter "T." No release date or full title has been confirmed yet.
Track 4's title and release date haven't been announced. Treat any claims about the full title or a specific drop date as unconfirmed for now.
Why It Matters
LISA is the first K-pop soloist to win Best Pop at the MTV VMAs. That's a real first for a category that's been around for decades.
73.3 million views in 24 hours puts "SaWaDiKa" among the biggest music video launches ever. That's not just a viral spike: it's a signal that a global fanbase is watching and ready.
Press Play is her first EP: 6 tracks that LISA says play "like a movie." After the full album Alter Ego in 2025, this one's tighter and more focused. If "SaWaDiKa" is the opening scene, the rest has a lot to deliver.
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LISA Press Play FAQ
When Does Press Play Come Out?
Press Play drops on October 23, 2026, through LLOUD and RCA Records.
How Many Songs Are on Press Play?
The EP has 6 tracks. A second single (Track 4, title starting with "T") is expected before the full release, but no date has been confirmed.
What Does "SaWaDiKa" Mean?
"SaWaDiKa" is a phonetic version of "sawatdee ka," a Thai greeting that means "hello."
What Award Did LISA Win at the 2026 VMAs?
LISA won Best Pop for "Dream" at the 2026 MTV VMAs on September 27, becoming the first K-pop soloist to ever win the category.
Throw on 'SaWaDiKa' and watch the visuals move with every beat.
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