At first we were thirsty for our first winning match in a World Cup tournament. We made it to the second round as so deeply desired by the people. Then we made it to the quarterfinals, and then became the first Asian nation to make it to the semifinals. Korea's players, armed with physical strength, speed, and determined minds, turned away one European powerhouse after another to rewrite the history of world football. Known as "power football," coach Guus Hiddink's tactical strategy and leadership brought Korea's team to the top of the world, and is worthy of praise from the whole country.

We've done more than make it to the semifinals. We've now the confidence that we can make it happen, and we've seen a truer side to ourselves. The appearance of the Red Devils was an event that has turned the consciousness and cultural code of Koreans inside out. It started at Gwanghwamun and spread around the country, and the passion of what would become seven million people cheering in the streets would surprise both ourselves and the world. This national cheering squad achieved the kind of national unity that could never be produced by any government or leader. Never before have we shown the world this kind of latent strength and pride on the part of the Korean people.

Now it's time to drink a toast, enjoy the feeling, and bring it all to a successful end. We need to relax all that passion and excitement and think about how we have created some beautiful history, and how we have 'upgraded' our cultural standing. The spontaneous party culture created by the younger generation has opened the floodgates of change for the whole of Korean society. The task ahead will be about how our society will satisfy that searching happiness, overflowing confidence, and future possibilities. June 26, 2002