Stray Kids bring K-pop to Rock in Rio 2026

Stray Kids will become the first K-pop group to headline the Rock in Rio Main Stage on September 11, 2026.

Rock in Rio will open a new chapter in 2026 by welcoming K-pop to its lineup for the first time. Always aligned with global trends and fan requests, the festival embraces the genre as its global influence reaches unprecedented levels. Estimates indicate 25 to 30 million fans across Latin America, with Brazil emerging as a key market.

Interest in the genre continues to surge. Spotify streams have increased more than 300% since 2018. Nine of the best-selling albums of 2024 belong to K-pop artists, including two releases from Stray Kids. The group will be the first of its genre to perform in the City of Rock and will headline the Main Stage on September 11.

Known as “STAY,” fans can prepare for Rock in Rio Card sales. The 2026 edition will take place on September 4, 5, 6, 7 and 11, 12 and 13 at the City of Rock, located in Rio’s Olympic Park.

According to Zé Ricardo, artistic vice president of Rock World, the addition of K-pop celebrates the diversity that defines the festival’s identity. He highlights the global impact of the movement, driven by dance, rap, vocals, visuals and strong creative concepts.

A global phenomenon

Formed by Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, HAN, Felix, Seungmin and I.N, Stray Kids has been one of the most influential K-pop forces since its 2018 debut. The group is known for authenticity, innovation and global reach, expanding its presence across multiple entertainment sectors.

The group has achieved historic milestones. It became the first artist in 69 years of Billboard to debut seven consecutive albums at number one. Stray Kids also ranked among the top ten in three IFPI Global Music Report categories: Global Artist Chart, Global Album Chart and Global Album Sales Chart.

The Stray Kids World Tour < dominATE > was their largest tour to date, visiting 35 cities with 56 shows. In Brazil alone, the group drew 175 thousand fans across three concerts. They have also headlined major international festivals, reinforcing their global status.

Their music continues to expand into new territories. “Come Play” appears in the second season of Arcane. “SLASH” is featured in Deadpool & Wolverine. Their album HOP [2024] became the K-pop record with the most Gold certifications in RIAA history.