The 2026 FIFA World Cup closing ceremony wasn’t just a celebration of football—it also became one of the biggest entertainment events of the year, with BTS taking center stage during the historic halftime show.

The seven-member K-pop supergroup captivated millions of viewers worldwide with a high-energy performance of their global hit “Dynamite,” reaffirming their status as one of the world’s biggest music acts. Beyond the performance itself, BTS also generated buzz through a series of memorable interactions with some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.

One of the most talked-about backstage moments featured David Beckham, who warmly greeted the BTS members with handshakes and friendly conversation. Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise also posed for a backstage photo with the group, creating another viral moment from the event.

Adding to fans' excitement, BTS leader RM later shared the photo on Instagram, referring to Cruise as "king," a gesture that quickly spread across social media.

Another standout moment came when global streaming sensation iShowSpeed finally met BTS. Known for his energetic personality, Speed couldn’t contain his excitement upon seeing the group. He jumped with joy, hugged each member, and even performed a backflip on the spot, leaving BTS both surprised and amused. The meeting carried extra significance because Speed has publicly described himself as a BTS fan in the past.

Within hours, videos of the encounter reportedly amassed more than 148 million views and over 13.5 million likes on Instagram, making it one of the most viral moments from the World Cup celebrations.

BTS also shared warm interactions with Justin Bieber, another artist with whom the group has maintained a friendly relationship over the years. Photos and videos of Bieber chatting with BTS members—including a widely shared image featuring Jungkook—quickly circulated online, delighting fans of both global music stars. The reunion further highlighted BTS’s influence beyond K-pop, reflecting the respect and recognition they receive from fellow international artists.

Since debuting under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE) in 2013, BTS has evolved from a rookie group into one of the most influential acts in global music.

The group has achieved numerous milestones, including multiple Billboard Hot 100 hits, sold-out stadium tours, millions of album sales, and record-breaking performances on Spotify and YouTube. Their impact has extended beyond music, earning invitations to speak at the United Nations and establishing them as global cultural ambassadors.

Following the completion of the members’ mandatory military service, BTS has reunited as a full seven-member group. Their appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup served as another reminder of their worldwide popularity, with both their performance and interactions with international celebrities becoming some of the event’s most memorable highlights.

Sources: kenh14