South Korean K-pop sensation and former competitive figure skater Sunghoon of the globally acclaimed group ENHYPEN will carry the torch for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Fans and sports enthusiasts alike have celebrated the announcement, which highlights a unique intersection of music, athleticism, and global culture.

From Skating Rinks to Global Stages
At just 23 years old, Sunghoon has built a multifaceted career. Before debuting with ENHYPEN, he was a competitive figure skater and a member of South Korea’s national reserve team. His athletic background gives the upcoming torch relay personal significance, as he reconnects with winter sports in a role that symbolizes unity, perseverance, and international camaraderie.

The Significance of the Torch Relay
The Olympic torch relay stands as one of the Games’ most celebrated traditions. Leading up to the Opening Ceremony on February 6, 2026, athletes, celebrities, and community leaders carry the Olympic flame across host countries, spreading messages of peace, inspiration, and global friendship. Sunghoon’s participation stands out because he becomes only the second K-pop artist to serve as a torchbearer overseas, following BTS’s Jin at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Selection and Recognition
Samsung Electronics, an official Olympics sponsor, and Sunghoon’s management agency, Belift Lab, collaborated to select him for this honor. They focused on public influence and a personal connection to sports and the Olympic spirit. Sunghoon’s experience as a national-level skater and his advocacy for sports and youth engagement made him a natural choice for this distinguished role.

Sunghoon’s Reaction
Expressing excitement, Sunghoon said,
“Being part of the Olympics as a torchbearer is truly an honor. Competing in figure skating was once my dream, and now carrying the Olympic flame connects me to that dream in a completely new way. I hope to inspire fans around the world to pursue their passions with dedication and courage.”

ENHYPEN’s Musical Contribution
Beyond the torch relay, Sunghoon and ENHYPEN contribute musically to the 2026 Winter Games. Their hit track “SHOUT OUT” will serve as the official cheer song for Team Korea, reinforcing the group’s presence at one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. This dual involvement—both musical and ceremonial—underscores K-pop’s growing influence in global sporting events.

Fan Excitement and Social Media Buzz
ENHYPEN fans, known as ENGENE, have expressed immense pride in Sunghoon’s selection. Social media overflows with congratulatory posts and fan art celebrating the occasion. Fans note the poetic resonance of a former figure skater representing both the athletic and artistic spirit of the Olympics, bridging Sunghoon’s past and present careers.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promises to be historic. Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, will co-host alongside Cortina d’Ampezzo, renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes. The Games will combine cutting-edge innovation with classic winter sports tradition. Including global figures like Sunghoon in the torch relay demonstrates the Olympics’ commitment to diversity, cultural exchange, and youth engagement.

A Symbol of South Korea’s Global Influence
Sunghoon’s role also reflects South Korea’s growing presence in entertainment and sports. The nation has produced countless Olympic athletes and internationally acclaimed artists, and Sunghoon’s dual role symbolizes national pride. He joins a select group of global icons who carry the torch, representing not only athletic achievement but also cross-cultural influence.

Inspiring Millions Worldwide
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Sunghoon’s journey as a torchbearer promises to inspire millions. His story embodies resilience, versatility, and the pursuit of dreams—a narrative that resonates with music lovers and sports enthusiasts alike. Whether on stage or the skating rink, Sunghoon illuminates paths for those who aspire to excellence, making him a fitting torchbearer for an event that celebrates global human achievement.

The Flame of Inspiration
The Olympic flame represents hope, unity, and the pursuit of greatness. With Sunghoon in this role, the 2026 Winter Games will celebrate athletic, cultural, and artistic achievements. The torch relay will create an unforgettable moment where music, sport, and inspiration converge in one powerful symbol: the flame.