SEOUL: From dominating fan votes to becoming the centre of global celebrations, BTS member V continues to prove his unmatched star power.
The K-pop icon has been named the industry’s top “scene stealer” while fans around the world prepare a grand tribute ahead of his highly anticipated appearance at the FIFA North America World Cup 2026 final halftime show.
V claimed the title through fan-voting platform Picnic after receiving an overwhelming 451,712 votes in a poll held from June 19 to July 3.
The recognition is given to artists whose presence leaves the strongest impression and captures the attention of audiences across different platforms.
Boy group Alpha Drive One’s Sangwon secured second place with 86,192 votes, while BTS member Jin ranked third with 67,050 votes.
According to Picnic, V’s victory was driven by his achievements in multiple areas, including album performance, live shows, advertising campaigns, digital content and fashion.
The platform noted that V has successfully expanded his influence beyond music, becoming a global figure in the entertainment, lifestyle and fashion industries.
V currently represents several international brands as a global ambassador, including Coca-Cola, Paradise City and HiteJinro.
His global appeal was recently highlighted during BTS’ Munich concert, where German media praised his stage style featuring an FC Bayern Munich football jersey.
The football club also shared his images on its official social media platforms, further amplifying the moment.
A Picnic spokesperson said the results reflect V’s ability to stand out not only through musical achievements but also through his influence across multiple industries.
V’s fans are now taking their celebrations to a global stage as BTS prepares for its historic performance at the FIFA North America World Cup 2026 final halftime show.
International fan communities, including V-Union, Baidu V-Ba, Taehyung Tuesday and Worldwide_KTH, have arranged special congratulatory video displays on two major outdoor billboards near MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The billboard campaign will run from July 14 to July 19, allowing thousands of visitors attending the World Cup final to witness the tribute.
Fans said they secured prime locations despite high demand and increased advertising costs surrounding the world’s biggest football event.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will take place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium, which can host more than 80,000 spectators.
For the first time in World Cup history, FIFA will introduce a Super Bowl-style halftime show during the final match, bringing global entertainment to football’s biggest stage.
BTS will share the headline performance with international superstars Madonna and Shakira, while Justin Bieber has also joined the guest lineup.
Before appearing at the World Cup final, BTS will conclude the European leg of its “World Tour Arirang” with concerts at Stade de France in Paris on July 17 and 18.
With record-breaking fan support, brand influence and a historic global performance ahead, V’s journey continues to showcase the expanding power of K-pop on the world stage.
