(ATTN: UPDATES with quotes from BTS in paras 7-8; ADDS details in para 5)
By Shim Sun-ah
BTS Electrifies 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show with Historic Performance
The global phenomenon BTS made history by appearing as the second spectacular performer during the halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final. Held at the state-of-the-art New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the event saw Spain face Argentina in a thrilling match, creating a monumental fusion of sport and music on one of the world’s grandest stages.
A Star-Studded Halftime Showcase: Madonna, Jungkook, and the Full BTS Lineup
The groundbreaking halftime show kicked off with an electrifying performance by the iconic Madonna, who opened with her hit “Music,” accompanied by dynamic roller-skating dancers. Following her powerful act, BTS member Jungkook took the stage solo to deliver a captivating rendition of the group’s global megahit, “Dynamite,” setting the energy soaring.
The excitement amplified as the remaining members of BTS sequentially joined Jungkook, culminating in a full-group performance at the very center of the field. Their collective energy and synchronized choreography were met with thunderous cheers and applause from the ecstatic crowd, solidifying their status as global entertainers.
Fashion Statements and Cultural Tributes by BTS Members
Beyond their musical prowess, the members also made significant fashion statements that resonated deeply with fans. Suga proudly wore a jersey adorned with the emblem of the Red Devils, the fervent official supporting group for the South Korean national football team. Meanwhile, both Jimin and J-Hope sported outfits prominently featuring the number seven. This number holds dual significance, representing both the jersey number of South Korean football team captain Son Heung-min and the total number of members in BTS, captivating fans worldwide with this thoughtful tribute.
A Historic FIFA Halftime Initiative Curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin
This spectacular FIFA World Cup Halftime Show marked a historic first for the tournament, introducing a grand musical interlude to the final match. The initiative was carefully organized by FIFA in collaboration with Global Citizen, an international education and advocacy organization. The primary goal was to seamlessly blend sport, music, and diverse cultures to engage a massive global audience. The event’s artistic direction was expertly curated by none other than Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
BTS Shares Their Dream-Like World Cup Experience
Following their monumental performance, BTS released a heartfelt statement through their agency, BigHit Music. The group expressed their immense joy, stating they were “happy to take part in a meaningful show, sharing messages of love alongside amazing artists and children — it felt like a dream.”
They further added, “We have enjoyed watching the World Cup since we were young, so we were honored to perform at the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final.” This statement underscored the personal significance of the event for the members.
A Milestone for the K-pop Supergroup at New York New Jersey Stadium
This appearance held particular weight as it was the first time all seven members of BTS performed together at a World Cup final. While Jungkook had previously graced the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with a solo performance, Sunday’s event at New York New Jersey Stadium marked a collective milestone for the entire supergroup, further cementing their legacy on the world stage.
