Football Association Cancels Qatar World Cup Cheering Event at Gwanghwamun Square

Impact of Itaewon Tragedy "Decision Made Hoping to Comfort Many People"

On the 28th, street cheering squads were celebrating at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul after South Korea's 2-0 victory against Germany in the 2018 Russia World Cup. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

The World Cup street cheering that has taken place in the heart of Seoul will disappear. This is due to the Itaewon tragedy.

The Korea Football Association announced on the 4th that it has submitted a cancellation letter for the use permit of Gwanghwamun Square to the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Sports Policy Division and the department in charge of square usage, ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Originally, street cheering was planned at Gwanghwamun Square with the Seoul city government, but it was judged that it did not align with public sentiment as less than a month had passed since the Itaewon tragedy. The Football Association explained, "After deep discussions, we reached the conclusion that it is better not to hold it this time," and added, "This decision was made in hopes of offering comfort to the bereaved families and many others who are suffering."

Seoul city stated in the afternoon, "The Football Association has officially submitted a cancellation letter for the use permit of Gwanghwamun Square for the 2022 Qatar World Cup street cheering." The city had received the application for the use permit of Gwanghwamun Square from the association on the 18th of last month and had been conducting practical consultations for the street cheering event.

Street cheering has been the largest event for Korean football fans held every four years since the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup. In the past, it was led by private sponsors and companies, but since the 2018 Russia tournament, the Football Association and Seoul city have co-hosted it. However, this year, due to the Itaewon tragedy, it has been omitted for the first time in 20 years. The Qatar World Cup will open on the 20th.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.