Jungmoo Park, Nexon Executive Vice President: "ICON Match Creates a Point of Connection Between Generations"

Nexon Hosts '2025 ICON Match'
"Giving Back to the Fans... Pouring in Our Best Efforts"

"Fathers often come to watch the games with their sons, and while the fathers admire the players from their active days, the sons come to like the same players through the game. I feel proud to have created a point of connection between generations." (Jungmoo Park, Executive Vice President of Nexon)

Jungmoo Park, Executive Vice President of Nexon, is answering reporters' questions at the '2025 ICON Match' media day held on the 13th at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo-gu, Seoul. Photo by Nexon

Legendary football players have once again gathered at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo-gu, Seoul. They are here to meet fans at Nexon's '2025 ICON Match.' Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba, Rio Ferdinand, and Kaka have returned this year following last year's event, while Ronaldinho and Steven Gerrard are among the new additions.

The ICON Match will be held over two days on the weekend. On the 13th, the participating players will compete in an event match featuring mini-games such as one-on-one showdowns, a touch challenge, the Power d'Or (shooting contest), and a curve shooting challenge. On the 14th, the main match will be an 11-on-11 game with the concept of 'FC Spear' (the forwards team) facing off against 'Shield United' (the defenders team).

At the media day held prior to the event match, Executive Vice President Jungmoo Park stated, "Nexon has been servicing 'FC Online' and 'FC Mobile' for a long time, and I would like to say that the ICON Match is our way of giving back."

He continued, "Last year, there were so many twists and turns that there were even internal concerns about whether the event could actually take place. However, thanks to the enthusiastic support of football fans and users, we were able to hold it again this year," adding, "We have worked to improve the quality by strengthening the coaches, players, and squads." He also personally expressed his anticipation for Ronaldinho's dazzling individual skills.

Regarding the selection criteria for players and key points to watch, he explained, "We focused on retired players and selected those who, even if they can't play the full 90 minutes, still have a certain level of fitness and performance. Many members who contributed to Arsenal's unbeaten championship run and Manchester United's golden era are included. Please also pay attention to Ronaldinho and Puyol, who once played together at Barcelona, now facing each other on opposing teams."

In connection with the game ecosystem of 'FC Online' and 'FC Mobile,' he said, "We plan to implement a system where the performances shown at the ICON Match today and tomorrow will partially affect the in-game stats of the players. If the opportunity arises, Nexon will also seek to connect with the newly launched FC Online league, 'FSL.'"

He further stated, "With even more realistic tactics and balance than last year, we will create unforgettable memories. There is no time to think about next year-we are pouring all our efforts into this match."

The captains of each team, participating in the ICON Match for the second time, emphasized that they would approach the game with respect for each other and a proactive attitude.

In particular, Didier Drogba, captain of FC Spear, expressed his determination to avenge last year's defeat. Drogba said, "Last year, I often passed the ball to Eden Hazard, but we didn't get good results, and it was only natural that we lost to Shield United, who had more organized movements. This year, I expect the coach to employ a more stable strategy. I want revenge."

Rio Ferdinand said, "I am grateful to Nexon for organizing this event, and among the new players, I am most looking forward to Ronaldinho." He added, "While the players who defined an era may not be as fast as they were in their prime, they will certainly inspire not only themselves but also the next generation."