Egyptians, Koreans to Gather for 'Pharaohs' Match on March 29

The Korean Embassy will host a cheering event inviting the Egyptian citizens who hold a special bond with Korea and the Koreans residing in Egypt at the Korean Ambassador’s residence in Maadi to enthusiastically cheer for the Egypt National Football Team and wish for a spectacular win against Senegal in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers match on March 29.

Egyptians invited to this first-ever occasion include Egyptian colleagues of Korean organizations and companies in Cairo, students from the Korean language department of Ain Shams University, Egypt-Korea Digital Ambassadors and journalists, etc.

From the Korean side wishing for the Pharaohs’ victory, not only Ambassador Hong and other Korean diplomats along with their families but also representatives from the Korean community and members of the Korean football club (Khamaseen) in Cairo will be shouting for the Egyptian warriors’ landslide win.

Ambassador Hong, quoting that one of the best things that can come out of playing and enjoying sports together is solidifying mutual relations, mentioned that this exciting event will be a great opportunity to bring the two countries’ people closer and deepen our mutual understanding.

To show that the Korean community in Egypt stands by Egyptians for the victory, the Embassy has prepared a mascot design using the image of two animals which respectively symbolize two nations - an eagle wearing an Egyptian ancient headpiece and a tiger wearing a Korean traditional clothes called ‘Hanbok’ cheering shoulder to shoulder with each country’s flag. This illustration was created by the Egyptian artist Ms. Menna Ayman, an Egyptian webtoonist and Korean culture enthusiast who studied in Korea.

Ambassador Hong also expressed his admiration towards Egyptian football and mentioned that he is a huge fan of the Egypt National Team and its players, especially the goalie, Mohamed Abou Gabal also known as ‘Gabaski’ for his perseverance and endurance, and of course Mohamed Salah for being the greatest player he is.

Ambassador Hong also added that he is a big fan of sports himself as he enjoys football, baseball, and tennis.

Contributed by Israa Farhan