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PacNet #22 – The World Cup: Promoting Globalization?

Northeast Asia is gripped by soccer fever, as the Republic of Korea and Japan co-host the 2002 FIFA World Cup – the first World Cup of the 21st century and the first ever to be held in Asia. The May 31 opening ceremonies in Seoul were officiated over by ROK President Kim Dae-jung and Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi Junichiro. Officials in Seoul and Tokyo are hoping that the Games will also provide much needed economic stimulation.