Can a World Cup stop Mexicans loving all things Korean?

[00:00:01]Though separated by language, distance, and a 15-hour time difference, South Koreans can find their second home with Mexicans.

[00:00:11]The K-wave in Mexico has been growing into a mass movement for years.

[00:00:16]It started with the influx of South Korean factories, followed by its cuisine.

[00:00:21]Eventually, its music came over, too.

[00:00:24]Capped by a visit from K-pop royalty, BTS, to the presidential palace last May.

[00:00:31]>> More and more people are getting interested in K-pop because of the dance group's talent and the fact that the music is really good.

[00:00:38]So, more and more kids and adults, moms and dads, are getting into this whole scene.

[00:00:47]>> South Koreans, who are inbound for the World Cup, have been met with warm reception.

[00:00:52]>> Oh, man. I I mean, you know, I see it here everywhere I go. Like, people want to take photos and, you know, there's that chant like, "Coreano hermano." Uh yeah, I think the the brotherhood with Koreans and Mexicans are very strong.

[00:01:06]Um you know, like you said, I can't speak for all Koreans, but it's been a warm, welcoming, friendly experience. And I hope other Koreans that haven't been to Mexico can come and see what it's like here.

[00:01:18]>> But, the South Korean fever in Mexico was put to a test as the two countries faced off in Guadalajara.

[00:01:25]>> Today on the pitch, there's no friendship. Off the pitch, we're all friends, mariachi and all. But, on the pitch, come on, Mexico. Let's win.

[00:01:32]>> For one Korean restaurant owner living in Mexico, supporting a team came with a dilemma.

[00:01:38]>> I'm not a big soccer fan, but of course, when Korea plays, I'm always rooting for my country.

[00:01:47]But, if they play against Mexico, I'll root for both.

[00:01:51]I don't have a choice. I'm in Mexico.

[00:01:54]>> Mexico won, 1-0, securing a place in the knockout stage.

[00:01:59]Despite the result of the World Cup match, this unlikely brotherhood between the two nations still remains strong.

[00:02:11]Outside the stadium, fans applauded one another, celebrating both the game and the cultural ties it brought together.