How Jungkook Slayed FIFA Even Before BTS Took Stage At Mega Football Event - A Look Back

The global phenomenon BTS and its members (RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook) continue to break global records, extending their influence beyond music into iconic international events. As BTS is all set to headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup 2026 halftime show alongside Shakira and Madonna, it is the perfect time to reminisce about Jungkook, who already made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, performing his official anthem Dreamers alongside Qatari singer Fahad Al-Qubaishi, becoming the first Korean solo artist featured at an opening ceremony. Meanwhile, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, FIFA World Cup 2026 halftime show marks the tournament’s first official halftime concert, cementing BTS’s global cultural impact.

BTS Jungkook created history at FIFA World Cup 2022

Jungkook’s solo appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was more than a performance. It was a historic cultural moment. Performing Dreamers alongside Fahad Al-Qubaishi in Qatar, he became the first South Korean artist at a World Cup opener, paving the way for BTS’ global recognition on the world stage. Watching Jungkook's performance, his proud 'hyungs' (band members) shared Instagram stories and expressed their happiness.

Meanwhile, Dreamers was part of the official FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Official Soundtrack and was meant to inspire, celebrate unity, and embody the spirit of the tournament. The song became a global sports anthem and debuted at the top of music charts around the world.

Jungkook on Dreamers choreography

During an appearance on fellow group member Suga's chat show Suchwita, Jungkook recalled about his Dreamers choreography and revealed that he had arrived in Qatar five to six days before the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony, initially expecting to only attend rehearsals. However, he soon realized certain parts of the performance needed adjustments. He mentioned that he hadn’t received any choreography, despite the presence of dancers, and felt it would look odd if he didn’t move along with them. He requested a choreography video to follow and noted that during the final chorus, the routine intensified. "I asked them to change that part so they did and I redid the formations. That's how it went. Originally there was nothing," he shared.

BTS at FIFA World Cup 2026 final

Now, BTS is set to co-headline the inaugural FIFA World Cup Final halftime show at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026 alongside Shakira and Madonna.

Speaking to Billboard about the upcoming performance, Shakira explained that the experience feels markedly different from previous major sporting events she has headlined. Expressing happiness, she said she was honoured to perform with Madonna and BTS and noted that the event would be completely different from his Super Bowl performances, which she described as an incredible experience.