4 years have past like the wind and the fever of the World Cup season is back again in South Africa. The period of the World Cup is a time of happiness, disappointment, cheering like crazy, staying up all night just to watch a game, and most of all a time that heals a nation, gives hopes to people around the world, and opens a door to a plethora of possibilities for people in underdeveloped countries. These players on the field running with all their strength become subjects of national pride, and most importantly become role models for the millions and millions of kids out in this world. All of countries participating in the Cup have devout fans cheering and rooting for their countrymen. Let's see ... 32 countries have been able to advance into the World Cup out of hundreds and all of them undoubtedly are every proud of their players. However my pride for my country has overflowed and is still overflowing. So which country am I talking about? In fact which two countries am I talking about? Why South and North Korea of course :D. Asia was given three tickets (I think?) for the three "best" Asian soccer playing teams. The three lucky countries: South Korea, North Korea, and Japan. North Korea is ranked 105th in the world while South Korea is ranked 47th. ~~~~
Many Koreans, including me, were both elated and surprised that BOTH Koreas were able to advanced to the World Cup. Now why is this a big deal? Well, Asia is a pretty big continent and holds many good soccer teams
known worldwide, but it amazes me that a tiny peninsula was able to capture two spots in the Cup. Many people worldwide think that North and South Korea are two totally separate countries and have nothing in common. This is true in some instances and the major one being the two separate government types.
However, what most people do not understand that the most important factor is the same. THE PEOPLE. We both share the same deep ancestral roots, the same language, the same history, the same love for our nation, and as a result we are family. Maybe not family that gets along well, but family nevertheless. And witnessing North Korea being able to go to the world cup was a very proud moment and a time to reflect on how far Korea and its people have come from the times of the horrible and tortuous days of the Japanese occupation and Korean War. Yes, we are separated... Yes, we are a tiny nation without much power
against the major nations... Yes, the world doesn't understand the tears of a torn
nation... BUT YES, WE ARE FAMILY...AND YES, WE ARE ONE! The time of reunification may actually be ticking away as the children of the Japanese occupation and Korean War become elderly and pass away unable to pass the torch of our prideful nation's last wish. Yet the World Cup reminded me of the wish... When the North Korean players raced down the field playing against Brazil, Portugal, and Ivory Coast .. I was there cheering and cheering for my people.
Let me hear your thoughts.. please comment below !!
