Lisa in The White Lotus significantly boosted Thai tourism, with Koh Samui searches increasing by 65% after the show’s release. The Thai government acknowledged this impact, highlighting the dual attraction of the series and Lisa’s popularity. Fans discussed her unexpected role and hairstyle, joking about her past statement on revealing her forehead.
Lisa’s Acting Debut in The White Lotus
Lisa of BLACKPINK made her acting debut in HBO’s The White Lotus Season 3. As a Thai superstar with a massive fanbase across Southeast Asia, her involvement in the series drew significant attention. Unlike her usual glamorous stage presence, Lisa played a local hotel staff member, surprising many fans.
Thai Tourism Surge After Lisa Appearance
After the series premiered on June 17, interest in Koh Samui, a key filming location, surged. Thai media reported a 65% increase in searches compared to the previous month. Hotel bookings also saw a sharp rise, with Agoda reporting a 12% increase in searches and a 40% spike in luxury hotel reservations. Other filming locations, including Bangkok and Phuket, experienced a 400–500% jump in bookings compared to last year.
Thai Government Recognizes Lisa Effect on Thai Tourism
The Thai government expressed gratitude for Lisa’s positive impact on tourism. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlighted a dual benefit: The White Lotus attracts Western tourists, while Lisa draws Southeast Asian visitors. Recognizing the value of foreign productions, Thailand has long encouraged international filming by offering incentives. In 2023 alone, 490 foreign films and dramas were shot in the country, contributing $280.6 million and creating jobs for nearly 29,000 Thai citizens.
Fans React to Lisa’s Role and Hairstyle
Lisa’s role became a hot topic on Korean community site theqoo. Some found it amusing that she looked like a local—an obvious fact since she is Thai. Others were surprised to see her without her usual glamorous styling. Another fun discussion centered on her hairstyle. Lisa once joked on Knowing Bros that she would only reveal her forehead for $3.8 million. Since she did so in The White Lotus, fans jokingly speculated that she must have received at least that amount.
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Lisa’s influence on Thailand’s tourism is HUGE! I even watched The White Lotus because of her. But I wonder, what’s her connection with K-pop now?