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Mexicans Welcome South Koreans with Open Arms Ahead of World Cup

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Local Mexicans in Guadalajara and Zapopan warmly welcomed South Korean journalists ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
  • Many expressed excitement for the tournament, with some children even asking for autographs in Korean.
  • Despite the friendly reception, local fans anticipate Mexico will win their upcoming match against South Korea.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Zapopan are buzzing with anticipation, and the atmosphere is unexpectedly warm towards South Koreans. Ahead of the tournament's opening match, journalists from South Korea encountered enthusiastic locals eager to interact, with many shouting "Corea? Una foto contigo?" (Korean? Can I take a picture with you?).

Korean? Can I take a picture with you?

— Local MexicanA local Mexican's enthusiastic greeting to a South Korean journalist in Guadalajara.

In Guadalajara's Libertad Square and Zapopan's historic district, the air was thick with the spirit of the World Cup. Citizens and tourists mingled freely, kicking soccer balls and interviewing fans in diverse national team jerseys. A large structure shaped like the official match ball, 'Tricolore', drew crowds eager for commemorative photos. Locals of all ages recognized the South Korean journalists, waving and smiling, with some children shyly greeting them in Korean or asking for autographs.

The fan festival area in Guadalajara was preparing for the upcoming matches, including South Korea's game against Czech Republic. While excitement was palpable, the presence of missing person posters, some with "missing" written in Korean, served as a somber reminder of ongoing concerns. Police and military personnel were visible, ensuring security for the influx of international fans.

Fighting Corea!

— Local MexicanA local Mexican expressing support for South Korea in Zapopan.

In Zapopan's historic center, the "love for Korea" was evident, with many locals having encountered Korean culture through K-dramas and K-pop groups like BTS and Blackpink. They offered "finger hearts" and cheered "Fighting Corea!" However, this affection did not overshadow local pride. One fan, Luis, predicted a 2-1 victory for Mexico against South Korea but wished the Korean team luck. Others, like Lupita and Guadalupe, humorously predicted a 4-0 win for Mexico while gifting the journalist a World Cup fan.

Mexico will win 2-1.

— LuisA Mexican fan predicting the outcome of the upcoming match between Mexico and South Korea.

Diego and his friends expressed gratitude for South Korea's 2018 World Cup victory over Germany, which helped Mexico advance. The sentiment in Guadalajara is a blend of genuine affection for Korea and confident anticipation for their own team's success, a duality that defines the city's World Cup mood.

We will beat Korea 4-0.

— Lupita and GuadalupeLocal fans humorously predicting the score of the Mexico vs. South Korea match.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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