Qatar has done exceptional job as World Cup host: S Korean envoy

Doha: South Korean Ambassador to Qatar, H E Lee Joon-Ho, said the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be an 'unforgettable' experience.  

At a press conference on Wednesday, the envoy said the country had done an exceptional and impressive job in organising the first ever World Cup in the region.

Ambassador Lee also commended the different aspects of the hosting of the tournament, from logistics to accommodation and environmental protection. “It has dealt very well with all the aspects of the tournament such as public transportation, world-class stadiums, accommodations and even environment protection as the first carbon-neutral World Cup.”

He said Korean companies have also contributed to Qatar’s preparation for the World Cup through infrastructure projects including highways, Doha Metro, Al Thumama Stadium, and the iconic Lusail Plaza Tower.

“Qatar already showcased to the world its ability to hold major international football events successfully even amid COVID-19 such as the AFC Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup,” the envoy said.

Earlier in June, the Ambassador said they were planning to host a series of cultural events for the World Cup and also considering performance by some famous K-Pop groups ahead of the most-awaited event of the year. He did not disclose the name of the groups but the South Korean Embassy is working to bring some well-known bands. 

Other cultural events and activities include Taekwondo and Korean traditional dance. The embassy estimates that over a thousand Korean football fans will visit Qatar during the World Cup, and with the recently-signed mutual visa exemption between Qatar and South Korea, the Ambassador is confident that the number of Koreans visiting Qatar will increase. 

“As the World Cup is getting closer, a lot of Korean football fans are showing greater interest in Qatar, and the agreement will make it more convenient for Korean nationals who want to explore and visit Qatar before and after the World Cup.”

The visa waiver exempts passport holders of both countries to stay in the other country visa-free for up to 90 days.

This year’s World Cup is South Korea’s tenth consecutive appearance at the quadrennial event. It is placed in Group H, together with Portugal, Ghana, and Uruguay. South Korea will play against Uruguay on November 24, against Ghana on November 28, and against Portugal on December 3.