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 the topic of heated debate online.
On June 12, Lisa took the stage during the US 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 songs featured on the tournament’s official music album.
Dressed in an all-white outfit, Lisa opened the show with a confident stage presence, singing live as she performed alongside a large team of dancers across the stadium field. The high-profile appearance immediately attracted global attention, especially since it marked a historical 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 at a World Cup opening ceremony, further solidifying her status as a global star.
At another World Cup opening event held in Mexico City, singer-songwriter EJAE also attracted attention after performing the official theme song DNA together with famous tenor Andrea Bocelli. The performance was praised for mixing 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 sporting stages, reactions among Korean netizens appeared more divided. Discussions quickly emerged online, with some viewers praising Lisa’s achievements while others questioned the overall impact of her performance.
Several commentators expressed disappointment, arguing that the stage did not seem memorable enough for such a massive event as the World Cup. Some also compared Lisa’s performance to EJAE and Andrea Bocelli’s interpretation of DNA, which they said better suited the atmosphere of an international sporting event.
Others, however, defended Lisa and criticized the growing tendency to compare artists to each other. Supporters argued that both artists brought different strengths to the ceremony and that Lisa’s inclusion reflected her expanding global influence beyond K-pop.
Despite mixed reviews, Lisa continues to remain very active as a solo artist following the conclusion of her individual contract with YG Entertainment. Meanwhile, the group BLACKPINK’s activities continue under the agency, with fans closely following the members’ future projects.
Sources: Pan
