On the 22nd of October at the Ice Skating Arena in Milan, Italy, Korean figure skaters Lee Hae-in and Cha Jun-hwan captivated audiences during the gala show leading up to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Lee Hae-in showcased her talent by performing to the song 'Your Idol' from the Netflix animated series 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', which features a fictional idol group composed of reapers. The show highlighted how K-pop and traditional Korean music, or gugak, have gained international recognition, celebrating the fusion of cultural elements in modern performances.

Cha Jun-hwan also made a striking impression by presenting a lyrical routine to 'Not a Dream', a contemporary composition that melds traditional gugak with modern arrangements, sung by gugak artist Song So-hee. He expressed his desire to represent Korea on such a global stage, hoping to promote Korean culture through music that resonates with international audiences. The gala serves as a platform for athletes to entertain, relax, and share their personal narratives, distancing it from the competitive pressure of regular events.

Reflecting on the significance of both performances, it is evident that Lee and Cha aim not only to showcase their skills but also to share their cultural heritage and personal stories through their art. With the increasing global interest in K-pop and Korean culture, their choices of music and themes illustrate a vibrant and evolving identity that connects sports, creativity, and tradition, paving the way for future collaborations and cultural exchanges on the Olympic stage.