Stray Kids and K-pop Debut Mark Fifth Day of Rock in Rio

The fifth day of Rock in Rio 2026 featured the first ever K-pop debut on the festival's main stage, Palco Mundo, headlined by the group Stray Kids. The event saw a massive turnout, with 100,000 tickets sold for the Friday lineup. Stray Kids closed the night with a high energy performance that included a custom runway and the use of lightsticks, which the festival organization permitted specifically for the K-pop fans. The group performed a mix of heavy electronic beats, rap, and R&B, incorporating a cover of the hit song Ai se eu te pego. Other K-pop acts on the main stage included solo artist Hwasa, who was noted for her bold and sensual performance, and the group Nexz, who opened the day with a show described as competent but repetitive due to a limited discography. Brazilian DJ Alok also performed on the Palco Mundo, where he debuted a collaboration with the K-pop group Twice and utilized 1,500 drones and 45 choreographed dancers. Meanwhile, the British band Jamiroquai performed at the Palco Sunset. This set attracted a predominantly older crowd of parents and nostalgia seekers, contrasting with the teenage demographic dominating the main stage. Other performances included the Brazilian trio Os Garotin, who featured rapper Duquesa, and American musician PJ Morton. Some reports noted logistical challenges during the day, including crowding and heat near the stage during Hwasa's set, as well as circulation issues on the main walkways caused by attendees sitting on the grass.