World Cup trophy arrives in Seoul, meets Brazil's Silva and Korean legends

In a moment of excitement for football fans across South Korea, the FIFA World Cup Trophy made its much-anticipated return to Seoul on Friday, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The visit forms part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, organised by Coca-Cola, marking the fifth occasion the trophy has been displayed in Korea since its debut here in 2006.

The unveiling ceremony was held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in central Seoul, where the trophy was presented to the public in the presence of iconic Korean footballers Cha Bum-kun, Cha Du-ri, Lee Young-pyo and Koo Ja-cheol. Joining them was former Brazilian international Gilberto Silva, a member of Brazil’s victorious 2002 World Cup squad.

Reflecting on the occasion, Cha Bum-kun, who represented South Korea at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, shared:
"Seeing the trophy brings a mixture of pride and longing. It is the ultimate prize, one that inspires generations. Korea first reached the World Cup in 1954, and in 2002, my son’s generation achieved the semifinals. Another generation has passed since then, and I truly believe that one day, we will lift this trophy ourselves."

Lee Young-pyo, a key member of the 2002 squad, echoed Cha’s sentiment, expressing hope that future Korean teams might go further in the tournament.

Gilberto Silva, representing Brazil at the Korea stop of the trophy tour, described the event as deeply meaningful. “The 2002 World Cup was a defining moment in my career. Seeing Lee and Cha Du-ri again, whom I respect greatly, makes this visit very special. Personally, I would love to see Brazil and Korea meet in the final—it would be a match the entire world would watch.”

The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour began on 3 January in Saudi Arabia and will visit 75 cities across 30 FIFA member countries. The trophy on display is the official prize that will be awarded to the champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, commencing on 11 June.

An exhibition allowing fans to view the trophy up close is scheduled for Saturday at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall.

Korea has been drawn into Group A for the 2026 tournament alongside host nation Mexico, South Africa, and the yet-to-be-determined winner of UEFA Playoff Path D. Notably, South Korea has qualified for 11 consecutive World Cup finals from 1986 to 2026, making it the only Asian nation to achieve this remarkable streak.