Blackpink Lisa to Perform at World Cup Opening Ceremony

K-pop stars will make a significant appearance at the opening ceremony of the 2026 North America World Cup. Singer-songwriter Lee Jae, known for the OST of the animation 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' and Lisa of BLACKPINK will perform at the opening ceremonies in Mexico and the United States, respectively. Additionally, BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) is scheduled to perform at the final match's halftime show, marking the grand finale of the World Cup.

At the official opening ceremony held in Mexico City, world-renowned opera singer Andrea Bocelli and Lee Jae will share the stage. They have already collaborated on the official theme song 'DNA,' and are expected to perform this song at the opening ceremony. 'DNA' features contributions from artists like David Guetta and Megan Thee Stallion, and carries the message that football unites people across borders and generations. Notably, Lee Jae personally incorporated Korean lyrics into the song, including lines like "Even if you fall, get up again."

This World Cup is being co-hosted by three countries: Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with separate opening ceremonies taking place in each nation. Lisa of BLACKPINK will perform at the U.S. opening ceremony, and BTS will appear at the final match's halftime show.

Lee Jae shared his thoughts through FIFA's official channel, stating, "It was meaningful to be able to include Korean in a World Cup song that people around the world will listen to." He added, "I am truly happy to participate. It is even more significant that I could write the Korean lyrics myself. It is a great honor to represent South Korea at the opening ceremony." He also recalled the unforgettable emotion he felt during the street cheering events for the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup.

The Mexico opening ceremony will feature performances by Shakira, Burna Boy, Mana, and Alejandro Fernández, along with a performance utilizing the traditional paper craft 'papel picado.' The Canada opening ceremony will include Michael Bublé, Alessia Cara, and Alanis Morissette, showcasing the identity of a multicultural society with a reinterpreted World Cup trophy in a mosaic form. The United States opening ceremony will feature Katy Perry, Future, and BLACKPINK's Lisa on stage.