[SC Issue] BLACKPINK's Lisa opens, BTS closes: K-pop adds to 2026 FIFA World Cup excitement

[Sportschosun Reporter Ahn So-yoon] As the 2026 FIFA World Cup heats up around the world, K-pop artists are adding to the festive atmosphere with dazzling performances.

Held in North America, including the United States, Mexico, and Canada, this World Cup has become a stage that showcases K-pop's influence both inside and outside the stadium. K-pop artists have taken part in major events, including the opening ceremony, theme song performances, and even the final halftime show, drawing global fans' attention.

BLACKPINK's Lisa took the stage on the 13th, local time in South Korea, ahead of the opening match between the United States and Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. She performed "Goals" from the official World Cup album with pop stars including Anitta and Rema.

Lisa became the second K-pop idol member in history to perform at a World Cup opening ceremony. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, BTS's Jungkook sang the official soundtrack "Dreamers" and performed at the opening ceremony, further raising K-pop's profile.

EJAE, who won global love through the Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters, sang the World Cup theme song "DNA" with opera singer Andrea Bocelli at the opening performance in Mexico City on the 11th. The track also featured EJAE, Andrea Bocelli, DJ and producer David Guetta, and rapper Megan Thee Stallion. In particular, EJAE personally wrote the Korean lyric, "Even if I fall again, I will rise again," moving K-pop fans as well.

After finishing the performance that day, EJAE shared her excitement on her personal account, saying, "I still can't believe what just happened. It was a glorious moment."

The passionate support continued at Gwanghwamun as well. On the 12th, when South Korea faced the Czech Republic in the first group-stage match, CORTIS took the street cheering stage at Gwanghwamun Square and energized the crowd with performances of "REDRED," "GO!," and "YOUNGCREATORCREW."

Meanwhile, the finale of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be marked by BTS, one of K-pop's most iconic groups. BTS will headline the final halftime show at the stadium in New Jersey on July 19. Pop stars Madonna and Shakira will also join the stage. This will be the first halftime show ever held during a World Cup final.

Ahn So-yoon, antahn22@sportschosun.com