ATEEZ’s Hongjoong Honors Hometown Roots with Ceremonial Kickoff at FC Anyang Match K-pop star’s appearance highlights local pride and personal passions

ANYANG, South Korea — Kim Hongjoong, leader of the globally renowned K-pop group ATEEZ, took center stage at an FC Anyang football match on April 6, performing the ceremonial kickoff in a heartfelt nod to his hometown. The event, held at Anyang’s stadium, drew fervent support from fans who flooded social media with celebratory posts, praising the artist’s dual role as a cultural ambassador and hometown advocate.

A Homecoming Moment Hongjoong, born and raised in Anyang, has frequently expressed affection for his city, a satellite hub of Seoul known for its rapid urbanization and historical significance as a former agricultural center famed for grape cultivation. Located just south of the capital, Anyang has evolved into a commuter city, blending residential neighborhoods with venture business hubs. Hongjoong’s participation in the FC Anyang match—a team competing in South Korea’s K League 2—resonated deeply with locals, who view the idol’s global success as a point of civic pride.

Fan Frenzy and Football Fervor Social media erupted with clips of Hongjoong executing the kickoff in a sleek black-and-white outfit, his signature charisma on full display. Reddit threads and Instagram reels from fan accounts like @ateez_winnie8tiny captured the electric atmosphere, with supporters hailing the moment as a “full-circle achievement” for the artist. Notably, Hongjoong’s love for soccer extends beyond the ceremonial; he has previously bonded with bandmate Jongho, the group’s main vocalist and a well-known football enthusiast, over the sport.

Cultural Ambassador Role The event underscored Hongjoong’s unique position as a bridge between South Korea’s entertainment industry and regional identity. Anyang, a city of over 600,000 residents, has historically balanced its industrial growth with cultural initiatives, including annual festivals like the Anyang Citizens Festival. Hongjoong’s involvement in local events amplifies this synergy, offering international visibility to a city less frequently highlighted in mainstream media.

Broader Implications Hongjoong’s appearance aligns with a growing trend of K-pop idols engaging in community-driven events, reinforcing their ties to hometowns while leveraging their influence for local causes. For FC Anyang, the collaboration taps into the potent fandom power of ATEEZ’s global fanbase, potentially boosting attendance and engagement.

As the match concluded, fan discussions shifted to Hongjoong’s multifaceted career—from his musical leadership in ATEEZ to his hometown advocacy—cementing his reputation as an artist deeply rooted in community spirit.

^1 While the search results do not explicitly mention Jongho’s attendance, his well-documented passion for soccer and shared interests with Hongjoong are frequently highlighted in fan discussions.