ENHYPEN's Sunghoon has achieved a remarkable full-circle moment by serving as a torchbearer for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, bridging his past as a competitive figure skater with his current career as a global K-pop idol.
The announcement came in late January 2026, when Sunghoon was selected as a torchbearer for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. This followed an invitation from Worldwide Olympic Partner Samsung. He participated in the official Olympic Torch Relay, carrying the flame through the streets of Milan on February 5, 2026 (local time), just ahead of the Games' opening on February 6.
Sunghoon, a former member of Korea's national figure skating team, brings a deeply personal connection to this honor. He trained as a figure skater for years before transitioning to become an idol through I-LAND and debuting with ENHYPEN in 2020. As a promotional ambassador for the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC), he has actively promoted Korean sports.
In statements shared during a press conference at Korea House in Milan, Sunghoon reflected on the significance of the moment:
"During my days as a figure skater, the Olympics was my first dream. Being an idol could be called my second dream. Although I came here in a different profession, I'm honored to promote Korean sports at the Olympics."
He further emphasized: "Although I came here in a different profession, I believe I've achieved my Olympic dream because everything I've done led me here."
This participation marks a poignant "full circle" for Sunghoon, as fans and media have noted—from representing Korea on ice to now carrying the Olympic flame, symbolizing unity, passion, and the pursuit of dreams across fields.
Adding to the excitement, ENHYPEN's track "SHOUT OUT" (from their third mini-album MANIFESTO: DAY 1) was selected as Team Korea's official cheering anthem for the Games, amplifying the group's involvement in supporting the national delegation.
Sunghoon's graceful presence during the relay—walking with poise reminiscent of a red carpet appearance—drew widespread admiration, with fans and outlets highlighting how he embodied elegance while honoring both sports and K-pop.
This milestone underscores the growing intersection of K-pop and global sports events, following precedents like other idols participating in Olympic-related roles. For Sunghoon, it's a powerful reminder that dreams can evolve and still come full circle in unexpected, inspiring ways.
