Korean and Mexican fans unite in Gwanghwamun Square for World Cup cheer

Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul buzzed with energy as citizens gathered for a World Cup viewing party, anticipating the match between South Korea and Mexico. Large screens displayed messages wishing for "everyone's victory," a sentiment echoed by the diverse crowd. While many donned the iconic red of the South Korean team, a notable number also sported the green of Mexico, fostering a unique atmosphere of shared enthusiasm.

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I hope we can see the 2002 four강신화 (semi-final miracle) again, especially since we won the last match 2-1. I hope the young people's cheers reach the players in Mexico.

Despite being a weekday morning, the "cheering zone" was packed an hour before kickoff, with people of all ages and nationalities filling the space. Some found seats on the ground or stairs, their attention fixed on the giant screen. "I came from Yeoju by subway this morning, a two-hour journey," said Shin Hyun-sik, 80, wearing a "Red Devils" uniform. "I hope we can see the 2002 semi-final miracle again, especially since we won the last match 2-1. I hope the young people's cheers reach the players in Mexico."

University student Lee Dong-ha, 27, expressed surprise and pride at the turnout. "Of course, I came to wish for a decisive victory," he said with a laugh. "Even though it's a weekday and office workers should be at work, the place is so crowded it's hard to get into the cheering zone. Korea really is a nation that comes together when it's time to celebrate."

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Even though it's a weekday and office workers should be at work, the place is so crowded it's hard to get into the cheering zone. Korea really is a nation that comes together when it's time to celebrate.

Among the crowd were Korean fans and Mexican-American individuals, some even exchanging team jerseys. Oscar, a 25-year-old student from Mexico, marveled at the "amazing energy" of the crowd. "Mexico will win 2-1. Raul Jimenez will definitely score," he predicted. Meanwhile, Korean-Mexican couple Lee Ji-hee, 31, and Esteban, 32, swapped jerseys. Esteban, in a Korean jersey, predicted a "1-1 draw," while Lee, in a Mexican jersey, anticipated a "2-2 tie."

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Mexico will win 2-1. Raul Jimenez will definitely score.

Esteban shared his positive experience: "I just saw Mexican dancers in traditional clothing performing at the street cheering event. Even though we are opponents, I felt welcomed." The organizers estimated about 40,000 people would attend, with over 440 police officers deployed for safety, double the number for the previous match against Czechia.

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Even though we are opponents, I felt welcomed.