SM Entertainment Unites RIIZE and NCT WISH for Special Soccer Variety Series

SM Entertainment is tapping into global sports fever with a brand-new collaborative program bringing together two of its fastest-growing boy groups: RIIZE and NCT WISH. Titled 2026 RWFA | RIIZE X NCT WISH WORLD CUP, this lighthearted soccer-themed event arrives as a fun lead-up to the official 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place across North America. Both acts have already unveiled matching teaser clips, giving fans their first look at the friendly competition. The broadcast schedule is designed to keep audiences engaged: Episode 1 premieres at 9:00 PM KST on RIIZE’s official YouTube channel, followed immediately by Episode 2 just 30 minutes later on NCT WISH’s channel. This staggered release encourages cross-viewing between the two fan communities, known as BRIIZE and NCTzens, creating a shared conversation across platforms.

Early online buzz centers on fan-favorite pairings. Viewers are most looking forward to seeing Yushi and Anton face off, praised for their natural, easygoing energy and ability to work well across group lines. Another highly anticipated team-up is the “Sungtaro duo” RIIZE’s Sungchan and NCT WISH’s Shotaro. Fans still recall their strong teamwork in last year’s SM multi-group penalty shootout special, where their chemistry made them one of the most memorable moments of the broadcast.

Beyond the entertainment value, industry experts point out how this format fits perfectly into modern K-pop content strategy. “Sports-themed variety content bridges the gap between casual viewers and dedicated fans,” says Kim Dae-young, a Seoul-based entertainment industry analyst. “It lets artists show their competitive spirit, teamwork, and off-stage personalities things music alone can’t always capture.”

In the first 24 hours, the combined teasers have earned more than 1.4 million views, with related hashtags trending in South Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, and even parts of North America. By tying the series to the real 2026 World Cup, SM Entertainment connects its artists to a global event, expanding their reach beyond the K-pop fanbase and bringing fresh energy to both groups.

Source:NCT Wish & RIIZE Social Media Post