BTS has added another historic achievement to its global legacy by becoming the first K-pop group to perform at the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
The group took the stage during halftime of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina on July 20 (KST), appearing as part of the tournament’s first-ever official halftime show. The performance marked a major milestone not only for BTS but also for K-pop, placing the seven-member group on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.
BTS joined an international lineup featuring artists including Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber. While the group performed second in the show’s lineup, many viewed their appearance as historic simply because they became the first K-pop act ever invited to the FIFA World Cup Final halftime stage. The achievement further demonstrated BTS’ global influence, highlighting how far Korean pop music has expanded beyond its traditional markets.
Following the performance, BTS shared a statement through BIGHIT MUSIC expressing their excitement about participating in the event. “It is an honor to perform at the first halftime show of a World Cup final, an event we’ve enjoyed watching since childhood.”
The members added: “It feels like a dream to perform alongside incredible artists, children, and everyone celebrating love together.” They also thanked their global fanbase, ARMY. “We were able to stand on this stage thanks to the love and support of ARMY around the world. We sincerely thank everyone who watched and supported us.”
During their solo segment, BTS performed their global hit “Dynamite.” Released in 2020, the English-language single became the first song by a Korean artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 and emerged as a symbol of hope and optimism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its uplifting message fit naturally with the celebratory atmosphere of the World Cup final. The members also wore red-themed outfits, a visual nod many fans associated with South Korea’s national football team.
BTS returned to the stage during the finale of the halftime show. They joined Coldplay, Shakira, Justin Bieber, Sesame Street and The Muppets characters, and the PS22 Chorus from Staten Island, New York, to perform “We Dance,” a song created by Coldplay for the tournament. The collaborative finale emphasized themes of unity, hope, and global togetherness.
The halftime show formed part of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund initiative, led by international advocacy organization Global Citizen. The campaign aims to expand educational opportunities for children in underserved communities around the world, giving the performance a broader humanitarian purpose beyond entertainment.
For years, BTS members had spoken about one day performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Instead, they reached an even larger global audience by appearing at the first official FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, creating a new milestone in music and sports entertainment.
Their performance not only added another first to BTS’ remarkable career but also opened the door for future K-pop artists to dream of performing on football’s biggest stage.
Sources: Daum | 스타투데이
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