Who is Jungkook, the BTS member who performed at the opening of the World Cup in Qatar?

A few days ago, it was confirmed that K-pop superstar Jungkook had been chosen to perform during the opening ceremony of the Soccer World Cup in Qatar on November 20. In addition, as confirmed by his group BTS, he will contribute to the official soundtrack of the World Cup.

“Proud to announce that Jungkook is part of the soundtrack for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar and will perform at the World Cup Opening Ceremony. Stay tuned!”, the band shared on Twitter.

Who is Jungkook, the BTS member who performs at the opening of the World Cup in Qatar?

Jungkook, at 25, is the youngest member of BTS. The artist has released several solo songs in recent years. Following the release of BTS's anthology album Proof in June, the singer shared the solo track “My You”. Earlier this year, he also teamed up with BTS's Suga for the ballad “Stay Alive”, which was featured on the official soundtrack of the webtoon 7FATES: CHAKHO.

Jungkook shared his first single, “Still With You”, in 2020 as part of BTS’s annual party. Now, he is ready to release “Dreamers” as part of the World Cup soundtrack.

Following the premiere, Jungkook gave a live performance of “Dreamers” at the opening ceremony at Al Bayt Stadium. The official music video for “Dreamers” will be released on November 22, 2022 on the official FIFA YouTube channel.

Criticism of Jungkook for his participation in the World Cup in Qatar

Like other artists, Jungkook has been criticized for his participation in the World Cup in Qatar, mainly for human rights violations in that country, including controversies over his systemic discrimination against women and the community LGBTQ+, as well as the reported deaths of several migrant workers who helped build the stadiums where the World Cup will take place.