On July 19 at the World Cup, BTS reminded the world what it means to be global entertainers. The K-pop superstars appeared in the halftime show for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals between Spain and Argentina, and according to fans, it’s exactly where they belonged.

The match and halftime show took place at the New York New Jersey Stadium. The show’s stacked lineup also included Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and New York City’s PS 22 Chorus featuring Coldplay. Plus, viewers were treated to special appearances from the Muppets. Even Jason Sudeikis made a cameo, appearing in character as Ted Lasso. But for the BTS ARMY, the show was all about the biggest boy band in the world.

It’s only natural for BTS to feature in a lineup full of international powerhouses, especially given South Korea’s participation in this year’s World Cup. The group lit up the field with a rendition of their 2020 hit “Dynamite,” complete with crystal clear vocals and the seamless choreography fans have come to expect. Jungkook appeared first, followed by the remaining six members—V, J-Hope, RM, Suga, Jimin, and Jin—who joined him one by one. As the group united, flanked by dancers in red and black tracksuits, they delivered the song’s disco-inspired choreo with the ease of veteran performers.

The world is still buzzing over the performance, especially fans like Mary Barnes, who got to watch it in person. She tells Teen Vogue that BTS was “magical” to witness IRL.

“Seeing a group of such talented people, who have made such a huge impact on so many people across the world, was like a dream come true,” she says. Barnes attended the World Cup Final as the winner of the Verizon Shine FIFA World Cup Final experience, part of the brand’s new premium customer loyalty program offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences to giveaway winners at sporting events, concerts, and beyond.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 19: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook of BTS perform during the Topps Final Halftime Show in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images