The 2026 FIFA North America World Cup will prominently feature K-Pop both inside and outside the stadiums. From the official cheer song for the national team to performances at the opening ceremony and halftime show of the final, K-Pop artists are set to play a significant role in the tournament's musical content.
The first release is the official cheer song for the South Korean national soccer team. The group TWS launched their official cheer song, "Dream With U," on June 11. The song conveys the message, "If we believe in miracles together, miracles will begin," and will be used in various settings to support the team's success during the World Cup.
As ambassadors for the Korea Football Association, TWS expressed, "We hope the positive energy of TWS through this song will empower both the players and the public."
Lisa from BLACKPINK will perform at the opening ceremony. She is set to take the stage in Los Angeles alongside global pop stars like Katy Perry. This marks the first time a K-Pop girl group member will deliver a live performance at a World Cup opening ceremony. Recently, Lisa was also featured on the World Cup official album track "Goals," alongside artists Anita and Lema.
BTS will headline the halftime show of the final. According to an official announcement from FIFA and Global Citizen, BTS will be a co-headliner for the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final. They will share the stage with icons like Madonna and Shakira, with stage curation by Coldplay's Chris Martin. Following Jungkook's participation in the official soundtrack "Dreamers" and the opening ceremony at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, the entire BTS group will now perform on this iconic stage.
BTS stated through their agency Big Hit Music, "It is a great honor to perform on such a meaningful stage that brings the world together. We believe music is a universal language that conveys hope and unity. It is even more meaningful to share this message with global audiences through this World Cup and contribute to expanding educational opportunities for children."
This World Cup is also enhancing the entertainment value beyond the matches. The opening ceremony and halftime show are key events that capture the attention of global viewers. With the participation of K-Pop artists who have massive global fanbases, interest is expected to grow not only among soccer fans but also music enthusiasts.
With K-Pop artists involved from the cheer song to the final stage, the buzz generated both inside and outside the stadium is anticipated to be a highlight of this tournament.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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