IVE Joins the Field — Literally
When K-pop meets world-class football, things are bound to get electric. This time, it’s the powerhouse girl group IVE—made up of An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo—who are stepping onto the pitch as part of the 2025 Coupang Play Series.
The opening match of the series takes place tonight (June 30) at 8 PM KST at Suwon World Cup Stadium, and IVE is there for double duty: they’ll kick off the game with a ceremonial first touch and dazzle fans with a halftime performance of their biggest hits.
“We’re Honored and Excited”
Through their agency Starship Entertainment, the group shared, “We’re incredibly honored and excited to be part of such a meaningful event. We’ll do our best to spread good energy to the fans and players alike—so stay tuned and support us!”
K-pop Meets Premier League
The Coupang Play Series is not your ordinary exhibition match. It pits top K-League players, dubbed ‘Team K League,’ against international giants. This year, it’s Newcastle United, who just won the 2024/25 Carabao Cup, bringing some serious football firepower from the English Premier League.
IVE’s halftime show adds a sonic punch to the action, blending sports and pop culture in a way only Hallyu can. Expect hits like “LOVE DIVE” and “I AM” to echo across the stadium.
Festival Favorites Turned Global Icons
Since debuting in 2021, IVE has dropped hit after hit, carving out their space in K-pop royalty. And their global presence is no joke—they’ve wowed crowds at Lollapalooza Chicago, Summer Sonic 2024, and most recently, Lollapalooza Berlin and Paris.
Back home, they continue to dominate. Their third mini album “IVE EMPATHY”, released in February, marked their fifth consecutive million-seller. The pre-release track, “REBEL HEART,” topped all major Korean charts—earning an all-kill—and helped secure a total of 15 music show trophies, including 11 for “Rebel Heart” and 4 for title track “ATTITUDE.”
August Comeback Incoming
Fans won’t have to wait long for more: IVE is set to make their comeback in late August, about seven months since their last release. But first, they’ll get the crowd jumping at Suwon in a halftime show that’s sure to trend.
The spotlight’s on both the pitch and the stage—and IVE is ready to score big, no matter where they stand.
