"A single ticket costs a staggering 4.3 billion won" — Outrage erupts: "World Cup for whom?" ... Local public opinion in the host country flares up

*This content was translated by AI.

Mexico, which is set to make history by hosting the World Cup for the third time, is seeing its football fever cool as the tournament approaches. With exorbitant ticket prices, inadequate stadium operations, and recently deteriorating security conditions, residents are increasingly voicing their grievances.

On the 6th (Korean time), the U.S. media outlet "CNN" focused on the issue, reporting that "World Cup ticket prices among Mexican football fans have soared to unattainable levels, spreading dissatisfaction."

According to the report, tickets for the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, scheduled for next month on the 12th at Banorte Stadium in Mexico City, are trading in the official resale market for a minimum of $3,000 (approximately 4.37 million won) to a maximum of $10,000 (approximately 14.57 million won).

In an interview with "CNN," a local Mexican resident lamented, "I enjoyed the 1970 and 1986 World Cups in person, but I cannot attend this third World Cup. How can someone earning a monthly salary of $1,000 (approximately 1.45 million won) afford a $10,000 ticket?"

The situation at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA, where the final match will be held, is even more severe. On official resale portals, the cheapest general seats for the final start at $11,000 (approximately 16.03 million won), with some seats priced as high as $3 million (approximately 4.3 billion won). While FIFA states that "prices in the resale market are determined by sellers as a standard practice," it is known to collect a 15% commission on transaction amounts, making it difficult to avoid criticism.

Issues regarding facility operations and security have also come under scrutiny. Summarizing local reports, during the friendly match between Mexico and Portugal held at Banorte Stadium, which reopened in March, the stadium was still under construction, and parking lots for general spectators were closed, forcing tens of thousands of fans to walk 2 kilometers, causing significant inconvenience. Additionally, an incident occurred where a drunk spectator fell from a box seat and died, exposing operational incompetence.

The primary concern for tourists is security. Recently, throughout Mexico, bloody incidents such as retaliatory vehicle arson and road blockades have frequently occurred in connection with the arrest of drug cartel leaders. At the end of last month, violent clashes erupted during the arrest of a cartel heir, raising further doubts about safety during the World Cup period.

CNN noted that "local Mexican youth are protesting around stadiums, claiming 'the World Cup has become the exclusive domain of the elite,'" adding that "the hosting of the World Cup has led to skyrocketing rents in Mexico City and a shortage of resources necessary for daily life, worsening living conditions."

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*This content was translated by AI.