BTS has made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering a performance for the ages during the halftime show of the final match.
BTS appeared at the halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, held at the New Jersey Stadium in the United States on the 19th (local time). This marks the first time a halftime performance has been held at a World Cup final.
Following the performance, BTS shared their thoughts through their agency, Big Hit Music, stating, "The World Cup is a tournament we have enjoyed watching since we were young, so it is an honor to stand on the first-ever halftime show stage at the final. We are happy to be able to perform for a good cause, shouting out love alongside wonderful artists and children, and it feels like a dream." They added, "We believe we were able to reach this stage thanks to the influence of ARMY all over the world. We are truly grateful to everyone who watched."
On this day, BTS performed their hit song "Dynamite," which topped the US Billboard main single chart, the "Hot 100." Notably, they added to the significance of the final by modifying some of the original lyrics to include football-themed phrases such as "kick the ball" and "a game of football."
The members delivered their performance on an "Earth Ball" shaped structure installed in the center of the stadium, conveying a message of harmony and solidarity that transcends borders and cultures.
In the latter part of the performance, BTS returned to the stage to join Coldplay, Shakira, Justin Bieber, Sesame Street, the Muppets, and the PS22 Chorus from a public school in Staten Island, New York, to perform "We Dance," a song Coldplay worked on for this World Cup, bringing the show to a grand finale.
This halftime show was produced by the international advocacy organization Global Citizen and was organized to promote the purpose of the "FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund." The fund was established to expand educational opportunities and sports accessibility for children in underserved regions around the world.
Meanwhile, BTS concluded their "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'" European tour at the Stade de France in Paris, France, on the 18th. They held a total of 10 performances across five cities—Madrid, Spain; Brussels, Belgium; London, UK; Munich, Germany; and Paris, France—attracting approximately 717,000 spectators. They will continue their North American tour at MetLife Stadium in New York on August 1–2.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)