K-pop is taking the 2026 FIFA World Cup stage in a big way.
Ahead of the tournament, a wave of K-pop artists have been announced for major World Cup events, making the crossover between soccer and K-pop bigger than ever.
First up is the tournament’s official theme song, “DNA.” Korean American singer-songwriter EJAE joined Andrea Bocelli, David Guetta and Megan Thee Stallion on the track, even writing Korean lyrics for the song herself. On June 12th KST, EJAE performed “DNA” with Bocelli at the opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
BLACKPINK’s Lisa is also joining the World Cup festivities. On June 13th at 8:30 AM KST, the singer will take the stage at Los Angeles Stadium for the opening eve performance ahead of the United States vs. Paraguay match, alongside Katy Perry, rapper Future and more.
BTS will help close out the tournament with a history-making performance. The group is set to co-headline the final halftime show at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19th, alongside Madonna and Shakira. It marks the first time a halftime show will be held at a World Cup final.
K-pop is also soundtracking Team Korea’s run. TWS released the national team’s official cheer song, “Dream With Us,” on Thursday. Carrying the message that miracles begin when people believe in them together, the song was first unveiled during Korea’s final friendly against El Salvador in Salt Lake City on June 4th.
The excitement is building back home, too. CORTIS, the rookie group under BigHit Music, has been invited as a special performer for the Korea Football Association and KT’s street cheering event at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on June 12th at 9 AM KST. The Gwanghwamun street rallies will be held three times, on June 12th, 19th and 25th, with CORTIS kicking off the first event.
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