Yoon: "Congratulations on advancing to the Round of 16... Hope Korean football shows its potential to the whole world"

President Yoon's Congratulatory Message Immediately After Securing Round of 16... "Great Inspiration to the People with Fighting Spirit and Passion"

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] President Yoon Suk-yeol cheered on the South Korean national soccer team, which advanced to the Round of 16 in the 2022 Qatar World Cup on the 3rd, saying, "As always, I hope you show the world the potential of Korean soccer beyond wins and losses."

On the morning of the same day, President Yoon immediately sent a congratulatory message to encourage the South Korean national soccer team upon their advancement to the Round of 16.

In the message, President Yoon said, "The challenge begins again," and "Congratulations to the South Korean national soccer team on advancing to the Round of 16."

He continued, "To the players, the head coach, and the coaching staff, thank you for giving the people great inspiration with your fighting spirit and passion."

He added, "Unleash the potential you have prepared so far to the fullest. Enjoy the game," and "As always, I hope you show the world the potential of Korean soccer beyond wins and losses. I will be cheering with you. Fighting!"

Led by head coach Paulo Bento, the South Korean national soccer team achieved a come-from-behind 2-1 victory against Portugal in the last Group H match of the 2022 Qatar World Cup held at Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, on the morning (Korean time) of the same day, advancing to the Round of 16 for the first time in 12 years as the group’s second place.

Including the historic semi-final achievement in the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup, this marks the third time South Korea has advanced past the group stage in the World Cup finals.

Although Portugal lost to South Korea that day, they had previously won 3-2 against Ghana and 2-0 against Uruguay, earning 6 points and advancing to the Round of 16 as the first place in Group H.