BTS added another historic achievement to their global legacy by becoming the first K-pop group to perform at the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
The group took to 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 official halftime show. The performance marked a milestone not only for BTS but also for K-pop, placing the seven-member group on one of the world’s largest sporting stages.
BTS joined an international lineup featuring artists including Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber. Although the group performed second on the show’s lineup, many regarded their appearance as historic simply because they became the first K-pop group ever invited to the halftime stage of the FIFA World Cup final. The result further demonstrated BTS’ global influence, highlighting how far Korean pop music has expanded beyond its traditional markets.
After the show, BTS shared a statement through BIGHIT MUSIC expressing their excitement for attending the event. “It is an honor to perform at the first halftime show of a World Cup final, an event we have enjoyed watching since childhood.”
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 ARMYs all over 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 has emerged as a symbol of hope and optimism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its uplifting message fits perfectly with the celebratory atmosphere of the World Cup final. The members also wore red-themed outfits, a visual nod that many fans associate with the South Korea national soccer 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 choir from Staten Island, New York, to perform “We Dance,” a song Coldplay created for the tournament. The collaborative finale emphasized themes of unity, hope and global togetherness.
The halftime show was 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 disadvantaged communities around the world, giving the show a broader humanitarian purpose that goes beyond entertainment.
For years, the members of BTS had talked about one day performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Instead, they reached an even larger global audience by appearing at the first official halftime show of the FIFA World Cup final, creating a new milestone in music and sports entertainment.
Their performance not only added another first to BTS’s remarkable career, but also opened the door for future K-pop artists who dream of performing on football’s biggest stage.
Sources: Daum | star today
