When Korea became one giant public square, and what came after

In summer 2002, South Korea became one giant public square.

Corporate workers poured into city plazas after work.

Families gathered in front of giant outdoor screens.

College students wrapped themselves in red flags and painted Korean flags on their cheeks, dressing as the “Red Devils,” or the South Korean national football team’s iconic supporters.

Strangers hugged, cried and screamed together in the streets as South Korea advanced to the semifinals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, turning city cent ...