As one of K-pop’s biggest global stars, BLACKPINK member Lisa made headlines after performing at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but her appearance quickly became a topic of heated debate online.
On June 12, Lisa took the stage during the U.S. opening ceremony held at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Sharing the spotlight with Brazilian singer Anitta and Nigerian artist Rema, the trio performed Goals, one of the featured tracks from the tournament’s official music album.
Dressed in an all-white outfit, Lisa opened the performance with a confident stage presence, delivering live vocals while performing alongside a large team of dancers across the stadium field. The high-profile appearance drew immediate global attention, especially as it marked a historic milestone for K-pop.
Notably, Lisa became one of the first female K-pop idols and the first member of a K-pop girl group to perform live during a World Cup opening ceremony, further cementing her global star status.
At another World Cup opening event held in Mexico City, singer-songwriter EJAE also attracted attention after performing the official theme song DNA alongside renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli. The performance gained praise for blending orchestral sounds with modern elements and included Korean lyrics co-written by EJAE.
While many international fans applauded Lisa for representing K-pop on one of the world’s biggest sports stages, reactions among Korean netizens appeared more divided. Online discussions quickly emerged, with some viewers praising Lisa’s achievement while others questioned the overall impact of her performance.
Several commenters expressed disappointment, arguing that the stage did not feel memorable enough for an event as massive as the World Cup. Some also compared Lisa’s performance to EJAE and Andrea Bocelli’s rendition of DNA, which they felt better matched the atmosphere of an international sporting event.
Others, however, defended Lisa and criticized the growing tendency to compare artists against one another. Supporters argued that both performers brought different strengths to the ceremony and that Lisa’s inclusion reflected her expanding global influence beyond K-pop.
Despite the mixed opinions, Lisa continues to remain highly active as a solo artist following the conclusion of her individual contract with YG Entertainment. Meanwhile, BLACKPINK’s group activities continue under the agency, with fans closely watching for future projects from the members.
Sources: Pann
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