President Lee sends World Cup message to team: 'Hope 52 million cheers reach the stadium'

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung rallied the national football team with a message of encouragement ahead of their 2026 World Cup match against the Czech Republic. The president urged the players to fully display their abilities, developed through extensive dedication and preparation.

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As there has been sweat and effort shed for a long time, and numerous training sessions and preparations, I hope all the players can freely showcase the skills they have honed.

"As there has been sweat and effort shed for a long time, and numerous training sessions and preparations, I hope all the players can freely showcase the skills they have honed," Lee stated via his X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday morning. He acknowledged the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing the importance of the team's performance.

Lee highlighted the synergy between the players on the field and the support from the nation. "Just as the passes, pressure, and attacks of the players on the ground combine to create precious goals, the cheers sent with one heart by the citizens will be the greatest strength that drives our team forward," he wrote.

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Just as the passes, pressure, and attacks of the players on the ground combine to create precious goals, the cheers sent with one heart by the citizens will be the greatest strength that drives our team forward.

The president conveyed his aspiration for the collective enthusiasm of the South Korean people to reach the players. "I hope that the 52 million passionate cheers will reach the stadium on the other side of the globe, becoming the courage and confidence of the players until the final whistle blows," Lee added. He concluded by expressing his full support for each player representing South Korea and wished them a healthy tournament without injuries.

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I hope that the 52 million passionate cheers will reach the stadium on the other side of the globe, becoming the courage and confidence of the players until the final whistle blows.