We're finally here; the World Cup semifinals. Who ever would've dreamed that Korea, way out there in the margins of world football, would make it to the semifinals in this the first World Cup of the 21st century? It makes your heart pound. Of course everyone's excited, but let's take a deep breath and think for a moment. Even after Germany there will be yet one more match to play. It could be the final, or it could be a fight for either third or fourth place.
Whatever happens one thing will remain clear. We've already walked on top of the world just like we wanted and right now we're dancing at the top, a place it seemed like we'd never be. If we fail and remain on the summit ridge, we have done something about which there will be little to regret.
Today the streets will again be flooded with waves of red. The 4.7 million citizens of the Republic of Korea will all become "Red Devils." Let's scream to our hearts content and be as happy as can be, but let's remember one thing. What we need now, before we even get to talking about victory or defeat in the two matches that lie ahead, is a composure that allows us to enjoy the party, and to finish by appreciating the sweetness of our accomplishment.
Right now the world is watching Korea with wonder, and not only because we have repeatedly defeated the powerhouses of the European continent. Even more a surprise to the outside world has been the strong yet highly moderated energy of the Korean people. The combination of shouting that fills the skies and the self-regulating order of hundreds of thousands is a mystery to people that are used to hooligan violence or South American-style frenzy.
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The foreigners who at first weren't sure what they were seeing have by now joined the crowds and joined in yelling out Korea." The praises they're singing are echoing all over the globe. This is where Korean name recognition comes from, and for us it is a true victory. Let's all keep it together, right up until the very end.
June 25, 2002
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