K-pop is bringing even more global attention to the North and Central America World Cup.
As the tournament takes place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, several K-pop artists are joining major World Cup events, from opening performances to theme songs and the final halftime show.
BLACKPINK’s Lisa performed ahead of the opening match between the United States and Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on June 13, Korean time. She joined Anitta and Rema on stage to perform “Goals”, a track from the official World Cup album.
With this stage, Lisa became the second K-pop idol group member to perform at a World Cup opening ceremony. BTS’s Jungkook previously performed “Dreamers” at the 2022 Qatar World Cup opening ceremony.
Ejae, who gained global attention through Netflix’s “K-pop Demon Hunters,” also joined the World Cup celebration.
On June 11, she performed the theme song “DNA” with Andrea Bocelli during the opening performance in Mexico City. The song also features David Guetta and Megan Thee Stallion.
Ejae personally wrote Korean lyrics for the song, including the line, “Even if I fall again, I will rise again.” After the performance, she shared, “I cannot believe what just happened. It was an honorable moment”.
The K-pop energy also reached South Korea. On June 12, CORTIS performed at a street cheering event in Gwanghwamun Square during South Korea’s group stage match against the Czech Republic. The group performed “REDRED,” “GO!,” and “YOUNGCREATORCREW”.
Meanwhile, BTS is set to headline the World Cup final halftime show at New Jersey Stadium on July 19. Madonna and Shakira are also expected to join the stage. This will mark the first time a halftime show is held during a World Cup final.
