Red Devils expect about 500 fans per match at 2026 World Cup as home attendance wanes

The official supporters group of South Korea’s national football team, the Red Devils, forecasts that roughly 500 members will travel to each of the three group‑stage matches in the United States and Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. The modest figure reflects a broader dip in domestic enthusiasm, with recent home friendlies drawing far fewer spectators than in the past. Attendance at Seoul World Cup Stadium – a venue that regularly sells out for national team fixtures – has fallen sharply. In October 2025, only 22,206 fans watched the match against Paraguay, and later friendlies against Ghana and Kuwait attracted just over half the stadium’s 60,000‑seat capacity. Even when games were staged outside the capital, such as the Bolivia friendly in Daejeon, roughly 7,000 seats remained empty. Red Devils president Cho Ho‑tae explained that travel plans vary, but “we expect around 500 people per match on average.” He added that the group also anticipates a sizable contingent from Korean communities residing in the United States and Mexico, which could boost the overall Korean presence at the tournament. On the pitch, Cho remains cautiously optimistic. “At the very least, I think we should be able to reach the Round of 32 based on our strength, and there’s a possibility of making the Round of 16 as well,” he said, underscoring a realistic outlook given the team’s recent form. Fan sentiment, however, has become more subdued. “Fundamentally, I think expectations for Korean football have become much lower,” Cho noted, pointing out that some supporters who had booked travel are now reconsidering their plans. The lack of recent results has tempered the once‑high hopes that accompanied the national side. The pressure on players has intensified, especially with the rise of social media. Cho observed that “players can directly feel the reactions of fans now, so the pressure has definitely grown even more,” and that any disappointment will be swiftly directed at the squad. Despite the challenges, Cho believes the World Cup still holds the power to unite the nation, much like it did in 2002. “These events still have the power to unite Korea. Especially in times like these, I feel that kind of unity is needed more than ever,” he concluded, highlighting the enduring cultural significance of the tournament.