Korean volunteers behind the scenes of FIFA Under 20 World Cup organisation

Delivery of the FIFA Under 20 World Cup in South Korea over recent weeks has been backed by a team of close to 1,000 volunteers.

Recruited from approximately 2,625 applications, the 980 individuals were selected by the FIFA U20 World Cup Korea Republic 2017 Local Organising Committee (KLOC)

The selection process was especially competitive in Suwon, where the KLOC is headquartered, with an acceptance rate of just one in five.

Since the tournament kicked off in late May, nearly 200 volunteers have been stationed in each of the host cities, diligently working behind the scenes to ensure the tournament's success.

Speaking to FIFA.com, Lee Kyungjoon, the KLOC epresentative responsible for volunteer management, stated “the volunteers tend to be on the older side, especially in Jeju, where most of the volunteers are in their 40s or 50s.

“In the past most of the applicants have been students, but for this tournament we've seen applicants from more diverse age groups. We are extremely grateful to all our volunteers. They endured three intense training sessions and have assisted tremendously with tournament operations."

For some, Korea Republic 2017 will be their third time volunteering for a FIFA tournament.

The final of the tournament, between England and Venezuala, takes place tomorrow (11th June) at the Suwon World Cup Stadium.

Image: Volunteers in the media centre at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium.

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