Seoul: The FIFA World Cup Trophy, a symbol of ultimate achievement in football, made a significant stop in Seoul on Friday as part of its global tour. During the two-day visit, South Korean football legends gathered at the CGV Yongsan IPark Mall for the trophy's unveiling ceremony, where they were reminded of their dreams and aspirations for South Korea's future triumph in the World Cup.

According to Yonhap News Agency, despite being in close proximity to the trophy, the former South Korean players were not permitted to touch it, reflecting the trophy's exclusivity to champions and heads of state. Former striker Cha Bum-kun expressed his mixed feelings towards the trophy, recalling his participation in the 1986 World Cup and his coaching role in 1998. He shared hopes that future South Korean players might eventually lift the trophy.

Cha's son, Cha Duri, a veteran of the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, emphasized the importance of trust and unity among players and coaches. He believed that with these elements, South Korean players could one day succeed on the global stage. Similarly, Lee Yong-pyo, who played in multiple World Cups, encouraged new players to persistently strive for success, drawing inspiration from the 2002 team's unexpected semifinal finish.

Koo Ja-cheol, captain of the 2014 squad, expressed his admiration for the trophy and urged the current national team to continue pushing forward. He echoed Cha Bum-kun's sentiment that players should focus on giving their best without succumbing to undue pressure, while also recognizing the support of their fans.

Notably, Gilberto Silva, a member of Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning team, was granted the honor of handling the trophy. Silva, now a FIFA global ambassador, expressed his excitement for the upcoming World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He envisioned a potential final between Brazil and South Korea, highlighting his respect for South Korean football's advancement and potential impact on global fans.