Sunghoon Illuminates K-pop’s Link to the Olympic Spirit as Torchbearer
Sunghoon, a prominent member of the K-pop group ENHYPEN, has been chosen to carry the torch for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, which will officially begin on February 6. This prestigious role highlights both his athletic roots and his growing influence on the global music stage.
A Journey from Ice Skating Champion to Global Music Icon
Prior to launching his career in music, sunghoon was an accomplished figure skater who competed at an elite level. As part of south Korea’s national reserve team until early 2020, he secured several medals at major competitions including the Asian Open Figure Skating Trophy and Lombardia Trophy.Even though he transitioned away from competitive skating to focus on singing, his connection to the sport remains deeply ingrained.
“Figure skating shaped much of my childhood and continues to be a core part of who I am,” Sunghoon reflected. “Many say I still carry that skating energy wherever I go.”
The Significance Behind His Olympic Torchbearer Role
Invited by Samsung Electronics-an official worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner-Sunghoon expressed sincere excitement about supporting athletes at milan-Cortina. “Having once aspired to compete myself,” he noted, “being involved with the Olympics now through my music is profoundly meaningful.” His participation represents a unique fusion between athletic ambition and artistic expression.
K-pop’s Growing Footprint in International Olympic Events
This occasion marks only the second instance where a K-pop idol has been honored as an olympic torchbearer; previously BTS member Jin carried the flame during Paris 2024. Such moments emphasize how Korean pop culture is increasingly recognized alongside traditional sporting spectacles worldwide.
ENHYPEN’s anthem Fuels National Pride at Winter Games
Further cementing their connection with these Games, ENHYPEN’s song “SHOUT OUT” from their 2022 mini album MANIFESTO: DAY 1, has been selected as South Korea’s official cheer anthem for its athletes competing in Milan-Cortina. The track inspires both fans and competitors with its powerful message of encouragement.
The Group’s Recent Triumphs Boost Their Global Influence
Their latest release, THE SIN : VANISH, debuted impressively at number two on Billboard 200 charts-marking ENHYPEN’s fifth consecutive top-five entry there. With over 1.6 million copies sold worldwide within just one day this year according to industry data, their momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
