Photo : YONHAP News / KT
Because of large crowds expected to gather in downtown Seoul ahead of South Korea’s first match at the FIFA World Cup in two days, city officials are urging citizens to use public transportation and take precautions to stay safe in the heat.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government said it expects many people to gather in Gwanghwamun Square for public cheering events that will take place throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup to support the Korean national football team, whose first match will be held on Friday against Czechia.
As the arrival of event-goers will coincide with morning commute hours, authorities are bracing for massive crowds and traffic jams around Gwanghwamun, Sejong-daero, and other major roads in the area as well as nearby subway stations and bus stops.
The city government said people who work in the affected areas should prepare for heavy congestion and plan ahead.
In addition, as hot weather is expected, authorities are recommending that people who attend drink plenty of water and minimize sun exposure as much as possible.
Emergency medical support systems and heat wave measures will be operated while safety management personnel are deployed on the streets around the event venue.
According to the Korea Football Association, World Cup match cheering events will also be held on June 19 and 25.