The Courier introduces Vancouverites who are devoted to the World Cup and following their team from afar in coffee shops on Commercial Drive, pubs in Strathcona and convenience stores on Robson Street.
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South Hall Palace usually hosts wedding banquets and ceremonies that cater to an Indian clientele. But during the World Cup, fans of the South Korean national side are filling the spacious hall with every shade of red and the sound of traditional drums and chants.
“There are so many Korean people living in Vancouver,” said Taylor Shim, who helped for the South Korea supporters’ committee to draw fans together. “Around 50 per cent are students, 50 per cent immigrants. So many Korean people really like to play soccer and really like to see the soccer games.”
The committee rented South Hall for the first time to watch South Korea take on Russia on June 17. Projectors displayed the game on four large screens, and food stations sold spicy toppoki rice cakes, kimbap and shaved ice topped with red beans and peanuts.
To pull together to watch the 1-1 draw, Shim said it took coordination and donations.
“It wasn’t easy. We had so much support,” he said during the match. “There are a lot of sponsors who support the Korean team and they donated money, which is why there are so many flags and red tees.”
Shim came to Vancouver in 2009 as an English student and said he appreciates the chance, which this time was created by the international soccer tournament on now in Brazil, to celebrate his heritage and culture.
He told us what it’s like to support the Reds.
What do Korean fans drink?
TS: Soju or makkoli.
What do Korean fans eat?
TS: Bibimbap, kimchi, kimbap.
What is your favourite World Cup memory?
TS: 2002 [against Spain]. I was in Seoul in Korea. The Korean team played over 120 minutes and then it was a tie so there were penalty kicks and we won 5 to 3. Then we got into the semi-finals.
Who is your favourite player?
TS: Ki Sung-Yueng
What other teams do you follow?
TS: FC Seoul in Korea
How do fans celebrate in Korea?
TS: After the game we usually grab some beer or some soju and go downtown. Or we stay at home with family.
If not Korea, who will win?
TS: It’s so hard. There are lots of good teams. Belgium, they’re going to make it to the semi-finals I think. Brazil, Netherlands, Germany.
South Hall Palace is located at 8273 Ross St. The Team Korea Support Committee viewings are free.
