K-pop’s global phenomenon ENHYPEN is about to shine on one of the world’s grandest sporting stages — and at the heart of it is SUNGHOON, who has been officially selected as a torchbearer for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, set to open on February 6, 2026 (local time).
The invitation comes from Samsung Electronics, an official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, marking a prestigious moment not only for SUNGHOON but also for K-pop’s growing cultural influence on global events. His selection carries special emotional weight, as SUNGHOON’s journey to the Olympic torch is deeply rooted in personal history.
Before captivating millions as a member of ENHYPEN, SUNGHOON was a competitive figure skater and a former member of South Korea’s national reserve team. His early life revolved around ice rinks, discipline, and athletic ambition — including dreams of one day competing at the Olympics himself. Now, years later, that dream returns in a new form, as he prepares to carry the torch that symbolizes peace, unity, and international friendship.
Since last year, SUNGHOON has also served as a promotional ambassador for the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, helping bridge the worlds of sports and popular culture. His role as a torchbearer beautifully unites his past as an athlete with his present as a global artist, creating a story of perseverance, evolution, and destiny fulfilled.
Adding to the milestone, SUNGHOON becomes only the second K-pop artist ever to participate in an overseas Olympic torch relay, underlining both his expanding international presence and the unstoppable rise of K-pop on the world stage.
Reflecting on the honor, SUNGHOON shared heartfelt words: he expressed admiration for athletes dedicating their lives to Olympic dreams, revealed his deep desire to cheer them on, and described this opportunity as a meaningful reconnection to a dream he once pursued as a young skater.
ENHYPEN’s connection to the Winter Olympics doesn’t end there. The group’s track “SHOUT OUT”, from their mini-album MANIFESTO : DAY 1, has been chosen as Team Korea’s official cheer song for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games — ensuring their music will echo across arenas and broadcasts worldwide.
Meanwhile, ENHYPEN continues to dominate the global music scene. Their latest release, THE SIN : VANISH, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling over 122,000 units and securing their fifth consecutive Top 5 entry, cementing their status as one of K-pop’s most powerful global acts.
From the ice rink to the Olympic torch, SUNGHOON’s journey is coming full circle — and the world will be watching.