BTS has once again proven its extraordinary global influence, this time long after the final whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite performing for just over a minute during the tournament’s historic halftime show, the group’s memorabilia has become the biggest sensation at a prestigious charity auction.

Following the conclusion of the World Cup, Christie’s launched the “ONE GOAL” charity auction in partnership with Global Citizen, offering exclusive memorabilia from the tournament to raise funds for anti-poverty initiatives. While many expected signed jerseys from football legends to dominate the bidding, it was BTS that unexpectedly stole the spotlight.

Less than 24 hours after bidding opened, Jimin’s custom World Cup performance shirt had already climbed to $14,000, nearly tripling its starting price of $5,000. Even more impressive, V’s performance scarf quickly surged to $18,000, making it the highest-priced item in the entire auction at that stage.

Perhaps the most surprising development is that both BTS items attracted higher bids than a signed Lionel Messi jersey, which was valued at $16,000 during the auction. The result stunned both football and music fans, highlighting BTS’ enormous worldwide appeal even in an event traditionally dominated by sports memorabilia.

Jimin’s stage outfit also generated enormous attention immediately after the World Cup. The custom-designed shirt, created by British fashion label AGRO Studio, became so popular that counterfeit versions rapidly appeared across online shopping platforms. George Oxby, the brand’s co-founder and designer, publicly warned fans about the fake merchandise before proudly sharing that the original piece was outperforming even Messi’s signed jersey at auction.

The excitement wasn’t limited to Jimin and V. Accessories worn by the remaining BTS members—including j-hope’s gloves, Jungkook’s jacket, SUGA’s pants, Jin’s belt, and RM’s shoes—also attracted bids worth thousands of dollars, demonstrating strong demand for virtually every piece connected to the group’s World Cup appearance.

Although BTS performed for only a brief segment during the halftime show, their appearance carried historic significance. The seven-member group became the first K-pop act ever to perform during a FIFA World Cup final halftime show, delivering an energetic performance of their global smash hit “Dynamite.” Fans and media particularly praised V and Jungkook for their commanding stage presence and charisma during the performance.

The remarkable auction results further reinforce BTS’ position as one of the world’s most influential music acts. More than a decade after debuting in 2013, the group continues to break records across streaming platforms, album sales, stadium tours, and global cultural events. Their successful return as a complete seven-member lineup following military service has only strengthened their worldwide popularity.

For many fans, the soaring value of these World Cup keepsakes is about far more than collectibles. It reflects the lasting emotional connection between BTS and their global audience—one powerful enough to eclipse even some of football’s most iconic memorabilia at one of the world’s most prestigious charity auctions.