LISA Leads Historic Night at 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles

The Blackpink star claims a landmark victory with 'Dream' at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles.

Thai global icon LISA, Lalisa Manoban, made history at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, becoming the first K-pop solo artist to win the coveted Best Pop award.

The Blackpink star secured the major category with her cinematic music video 'Dream', featuring Japanese actor Kentaro Sakaguchi. The landmark victory came amidst fierce competition from music industry heavyweights, including Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo, Charli xcx, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tate McRae.

Taking to the stage at the downtown Los Angeles ceremony in a striking black outfit featuring dramatic white fringe sleeves, an emotional LISA delivered a tearful acceptance speech while clutching her VMA Moon Person trophy.

"I wouldn't be here without you guys," she told her fans, affectionately known as Lilies. "Thank you so much for your love and support."

Earlier in the evening, LISA captivated photos on the red carpet, stepping out in a sheer red form-fitting gown by The Attico, paired with a textured Quine Li coat and a sleek high ponytail.

The success of 'Dream' capped an extraordinary campaign at this year's awards, where the track earned four nominations in total, including Best K-Pop, Best Cinematography, and Best Editing.

Speaking recently at the premiere of her documentary Always Lalisa, the singer reflected warmly on her solo endeavours and her bond with her Blackpink bandmates—Jisoo, Rosé, and Jennie.

"We were able to do our own stuff and find our own voice, so [now that] we’re back together, we bring good energy," LISA noted, emphasising that the group remains entirely supportive of each other's individual triumphs.

Madonna, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift Share VMA Spotlight

The star-studded ceremony also celebrated major achievements across the international pop landscape. Pop legend Madonna and singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter took home the award for Best Collaboration for their hit single 'Bring Your Love'.

The pair opened the telecast with a high-octane performance before accepting their award. Madonna, the night's most-nominated artist, praised her collaborator backstage: "When I show up late, she shows up early," she joked, noting their shared tradition of penning lyrics on paper.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift was honoured with the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Award in recognition of her self-directed music videos, including 'The Fate of Ophelia' and her latest single, 'Patient Zero'.

The 2026 VMAs broadcast live across CBS and MTV, streaming simultaneously on Paramount+.