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EJAE to Participate in World Cup Theme Song, Perform at Opening Ceremony

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Singer-songwriter EJAE (Lee Jae) will participate in the official theme song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  • The song, titled "DNA," features a global collaboration including Andrea Bocelli, David Guetta, and Megan Thee Stallion.
  • EJAE will perform "DNA" with Andrea Bocelli at the World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico City.

Singer-songwriter EJAE, also known as Lee Jae, who gained global recognition through the Netflix animation "K-pop Demon Hunters," is set to feature on the official theme song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks a significant milestone for the artist and for K-pop-influenced music on a global stage.

FIFA officially released the theme song, "DNA," on June 11 through its social media channels. The track is a global collaboration featuring EJAE alongside renowned artists Andrea Bocelli, David Guetta, and Megan Thee Stallion. The song uniquely blends elements of classical music, electronic dance music, hip-hop, and K-pop vocals into a cohesive piece.

EJAE and Andrea Bocelli are scheduled to perform "DNA" for the first time at the World Cup opening ceremony, which will be held in Mexico City. The song aims to convey the message that football is more than just a game; it represents identity, solidarity, and a sense of belonging.

A notable aspect of the song is the inclusion of Korean lyrics in the latter part, with EJAE singing, "Even if I fall again, I will rise again." This integration of Korean into the official World Cup anthem is considered highly significant, highlighting the global reach and influence of Korean culture.

EJAE first gained attention for her work on "K-pop Demon Hunters," where she voiced the character Lumi and contributed to key songs like the OST "Golden." "Golden" achieved considerable success, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart for an extended period, demonstrating the potential of K-pop-based animation music. Having started as a K-pop idol trainee before transitioning to songwriting, EJAE has emerged as a recognized vocalist and global artist through this project.

Even if I fall again, I will rise again

โ€” EJAESinging Korean lyrics in the official FIFA World Cup theme song 'DNA'.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.