ENHYPEN member Sunghoon has been selected as a torchbearer for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. This announcement highlights his background as a former member of the South Korean national figure skating team.
Our Take
Sunghoon’s selection as a torchbearer for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics is significant not only for him personally but also for the K-Pop industry at large. His background in figure skating adds a unique layer to his role, as it resonates with the Olympic spirit and values of athleticism and artistry. This appointment showcases the increasing intersection of sports and entertainment, particularly in South Korea, where K-Pop idols often take on roles that extend beyond music. The influence of K-Pop on global events is growing, and having a popular idol like Sunghoon represent the Olympic Games can attract younger audiences to both the event and the sport. Moreover, as K-Pop continues to expand its global reach, this recognition of an idol in the context of a prestigious international event highlights the soft power that the industry holds. It reflects the cultural significance of K-Pop, positioning idols as not just entertainers but also as cultural ambassadors, thereby enhancing the visibility of South Korean culture on a worldwide stage.
