In a spectacular prelude to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the illustrious FIFA World Cup Trophy returned to South Korea on Friday, marking its fifth visit to the nation since its inaugural tour in 2006. Organised by Coca-Cola, the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour has become a global celebration, bringing football’s most coveted prize closer to fans around the world.
The trophy was unveiled at a glittering press event at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in central Seoul, drawing an assembly of football icons. South Korea’s celebrated former internationals Cha Bum-kun, Cha Du-ri, Lee Young-pyo, and Koo Ja-cheol were joined by Gilberto Silva, a member of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad, in a moment steeped in nostalgia and inspiration.
Cha Bum-kun, who represented South Korea in the 1986 Mexico World Cup, reflected on the occasion:
“Seeing the trophy evokes a mixture of emotions. It is something every player dreams of, yet few ever hold. But it instils hope. Korea first competed in the World Cup in 1954, and in 2002, my children’s generation reached the semi-finals. Now, another generation has passed, and I truly believe one day we will lift this trophy ourselves.”
Lee Young-pyo echoed similar sentiments, recalling Korea’s historic 2002 semi-final run with pride, emphasising the progress of Korean football over the decades.
Gilberto Silva described the visit as particularly meaningful:
“The 2002 World Cup was a defining moment in my career. Being in Korea again allows me to reunite with Lee and Cha Du-ri, whom I hold in the highest regard. Korean football has immense potential, and I hope to witness a Brazil versus Korea final in 2026—such a match would captivate the world.”
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, which began on 3 January in Saudi Arabia, will traverse 75 cities across 30 FIFA member nations before concluding at the 2026 tournament, where the winning team will lift the iconic trophy. A public exhibition in Seoul at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall will provide fans with the rare opportunity to view the trophy up close.
South Korea’s upcoming 2026 World Cup campaign, bolstered by its consistent international record, continues to inspire fans nationwide:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Group | A |
| Opponents | Mexico (Host), South Africa, UEFA Play-off Path D Winner |
| World Cup Finals Appearances | 11 consecutive tournaments (1986–2026) |
| Asian Record | Only Asian nation to qualify for 11 consecutive finals |
With such a rich history and enduring commitment to the sport, South Korea’s football supporters dream fervently of the day their team hoists the FIFA World Cup Trophy on the global stage. This visit of the trophy is more than a tour—it is a celebration of ambition, legacy, and the enduring spirit of football in Korea.