Strict Islamic Sharia Law... Up to 7 Years Imprisonment for 'Adultery' Offenses
Alcohol Consumption Prohibited in Public Places During World Cup... Must Drink in Designated Areas
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Jung-wan] With the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar set to open on the 21st (Korean time), foreigners caught having sexual relations with someone other than their spouse, even if married locally, can face up to 7 years in prison without exception.
Recently, major foreign media warned, "Football fans visiting Qatar who are caught having sexual relations with someone other than their spouse may face up to 7 years imprisonment."
In Qatar, an Islamic country, Islamic law 'Sharia law' is designated as national legislation, so couples of different sexes sharing a room may be suspected of 'extramarital affairs' and face punishment. This is because the law includes a clause prohibiting extramarital affairs. There have even been cases where people of different sexes who are not married canceled hotel reservations in Qatar.
Alcohol consumption should also be approached with caution. Qatar does not allow drinking alcohol in public places. Even foreigners caught drinking in public places other than designated hotels will face imprisonment of up to 6 months or a fine of 3,000 Qatari Riyals (about 1 million KRW).
However, during the World Cup, drinking is permitted in fan festival zones set up outside the stadium. FIFA plans to set up fan fests near the stadium where official sponsor Budweiser beer will be sold from 3 hours before kickoff until 1 hour after the match ends.
According to FIFA, since Qatari nationals have a culture that finds public drinking difficult to understand, those who overconsume alcohol will be moved to a 'sobering area' for management.
Additionally, FIFA recommends dress codes to foreign tourists visiting the World Cup to avoid 'awkward situations.' FIFA warned, "Men should wear pants that cover at least below the knees," and "If attending a mosque or being with other Muslims, it is best to cover thighs and shoulders completely."
For women, "In Qatar, women are generally required to cover their bodies everywhere except around pools and beaches," and "Foreign tourists should consider wearing pants or long skirts while staying in Qatar. Bare feet and slippers can also cause awkward situations."
Meanwhile, the Korean national team will play their first group match against Uruguay on the 24th at 10 PM (Korean time) in the Qatar World Cup. The second and third matches will be against Ghana (10 PM on the 28th) and Portugal (midnight on December 3rd), respectively.
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