Kim Heung-koo heads to the 2026 North American World Cup at his own expense... Departs for Los Angeles on the 10th [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Singer Kim Heung-koo, known as a football fanatic in the entertainment industry, is once again setting off on a solo trip to the 2026 North American World Cup to cheer on the national team, waving the Taegeukgi flag.

Kim Heung-koo is scheduled to depart on the 10th via Incheon International Airport, travel through Los Angeles, USA, and then head to Mexico, where he will join the overseas Korean supporter group to cheer for the Republic of Korea national football team.

Kim Heung-koo's overseas trips began with the 1990 World Cup in Italy and have continued for over 30 years. Excluding the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, he has personally visited almost every World Cup venue to support the national team, making this North American World Cup his eighth overall overseas trip.

Kim Heung-koo has shared the joys and sorrows of South Korean football for decades. At the stadium, he waves the Taegeukgi flag more passionately than anyone else, and from the stands, he cheers for the national team until his voice is hoarse, earning the title of "Arirang Support Group Leader." In particular, this trip is especially meaningful as he is traveling entirely at his own expense amid significantly increased costs for overseas support due to high exchange rates and deteriorating international conditions.

Kim Heung-koo initially planned to organize a group support trip with members of his football fan club, "Chuksamo (a group that loves football)," but due to difficult circumstances, he ultimately decided to go on the trip alone.

Kim Heung-koo stated, "The cost of flights, fuel, and the exchange rate are all burdensome, but I could not give up my heart for supporting South Korean football. I believe it is my role to rush wherever the South Korean football team plays." He added, "I will stand in the stands with the mindset of being the 12th player off the field. I will wave the Taegeukgi flag and the Taegeuk fan, beat the gong, and infuse strength into the South Korean players. I will cheer with all my might and return."

Kim Heung-koo expressed his unwavering love for football, saying, "The first match of the World Cup is crucial. I sincerely hope our players achieve results beyond the Round of 16 through a strong start."

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*This content was translated by AI.