Highlights
- HYBE rookies TWS will sing South Korea's official World Cup anthem, marking a significant leap in their career trajectory.
- A preview of Dream With Us has already reached fans, blending national pride, music, and tournament excitement ahead of kickoff.
- The announcement has sparked fierce debate online, with people questioning if they are the right fit to sing South Korea’s World Cup campaign.
HYBE’s rookie group TWS is set to release a new song, Dream With Us, anchoring South Korea’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the US. Under the sublabel of Pledis Entertainment, the group will release the song on June 11, 2026 (Thursday), which will carry the message of unity: “If we believe in miracles together, then miracles begin.”
TWS Began as Football Ambassadors in 2025
TWS was appointed as Korea Football Association ambassadors last October. Notably, members Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, and Kyungmin noted in an official statement that they are “truly happy to be able to support the national football team through music” so that the South Korean players can put on a wonderful performance.
Hit EPs and Early Preview of Dream With Us Pave the Way for HYBE Rookies
The track marks a massive achievement for the group, after they released hit EPs like Sparkling Blue, Plot Twist, If I’m S, Can You Be My N?, and 2025's Countdown!. Fans received an early preview of the song during South Korea’s pre-tournament friendly match against El Salvador in Salt Lake City on Wednesday. A JTBC social media promotional clip showed the members in red shirts, waving national flags and chanting “Korea, fighting!”
Criticisms Surface Online Despite Heightened Fan Anticipation
Despite gaining immediate traction from K-pop fans, the announcement has triggered diverse opinions online. A Times of India report revealed the cultural rift between mainstream football purists and K-pop fandoms. Critics expressed their concerns regarding the group's softer sonic image, with comments stating, "Honestly? It's going to be s**t. They have voices that are way too sweet," and "It better be energetic song not cute at all."
Many sports fans, who are unfamiliar with the band, asked, "Who are they?", while others talked about HYBE, saying that the company “is doing anything at this point, anything is possible with money,” since this is their second act after BTS to take part in any World Cup event. Nevertheless, loyal supporters counteracted the backlash with posts having purple and light blue hearts. They noted that they are "Excited ❤️🔥" and are "So happy for them my tws 💜💜💜🩵." Within this tug-of-war situation involving both sharp criticism and praise, TWS has possibly gained total market visibility before the opening whistle blows.
