12 June,2026 12:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
EJAE and Andrea Bocelli (Picture via Instagram)
Singer-songwriter EJAE marked a major milestone in her career by performing at the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Mexico City. The Korean artist took the global stage alongside legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, delivering a live rendition of "DNA," the tournament's official anthem. The performance formed part of a star-studded opening ceremony that celebrated the start of football's biggest event.
FIFA had announced ahead of the ceremony that EJAE and Bocelli would perform "DNA," a song that blends classical music, contemporary pop and electronic influences. The anthem also features contributions from acclaimed producer David Guetta and Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion, bringing together artists from different musical backgrounds to create a track that reflects the global nature of the World Cup.
For EJAE, the performance carried special significance. The singer expressed pride in representing South Korea on one of the world's largest stages. She also revealed that the song includes Korean lyrics, allowing her to showcase a part of her culture to an international audience. According to EJAE, participating in the official World Cup anthem was a deeply meaningful experience and an opportunity to share Korean artistry with football fans around the globe.
Reflecting on the opportunity, EJAE recalled memories of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which was jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan. She remembered witnessing the sense of unity that swept through Seoul during the tournament, with strangers celebrating together in the streets. Those memories, she said, remain among her most cherished childhood experiences and inspired her connection to the spirit of the World Cup.
The opening ceremony featured an impressive lineup of international stars, including Shakira, Burna Boy, J Balvin, Tyla and several Latin American performers. Amid the celebrations, EJAE and Bocelli's performance of "DNA" stood out as a symbol of the tournament's message of unity, bringing together different cultures, languages and musical styles through a single anthem.
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 gets underway across Mexico, Canada and the United States, EJAE's appearance at the opening ceremony has become a proud moment for Korean music fans, highlighting the growing influence of Korean artists on major international stages.
