Imagine seeing football legends like Didier Drogba, Kaká, or Rio Ferdinand play live in Korea.
ICONS Match 2 is not just a game — it’s a once-a-year event where retired stars from around the world meet again on the pitch, right here in Seoul.
This exciting event is hosted by Nexon, the company behind the popular online game FC Online.
Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just curious about Korean events, this is your chance to experience something truly unique.
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In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know: how to get tickets (even as a foreigner), who’s playing, how to get there, and how to watch from home if you can’t attend in person.
Let’s dive in!
A Football Festival in Korea: What’s ICONS Match 2 All About?
What if your favorite football legends stepped out of the game and onto a real-life pitch — in Korea?
That’s exactly what ICONS Match 2 is: a hybrid experience blending esports fandom with the live energy of stadium football.
This annual event is organized by Nexon, the company behind the hit online game FC Online. Players who exist as digital “icons” in the game — from Drogba to Ferdinand — gather in Seoul for a real, physical showdown.
It’s not a simulation. It’s not a commercial. It’s a game-day celebration that feels like a dream come true for football fans.
With player intros, halftime shows, and roaring fans in the stands, it’s part football match, part all-star show, and fully unforgettable.
Event Details You Need to Know (Dates, Venue & Schedule)
ICONS Match 2 is set to take place over one exciting weekend this fall. Here's what to mark on your calendar:
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Dates: September 13 (Saturday) & 14 (Sunday), 2025
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Location: Seoul World Cup Stadium
→ Address: 240 World Cup-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul -
Time: Doors open at 5 PM, kickoff starts around 7 PM
The event runs in a two-day “round match” format, where each team gets a chance to showcase their lineup.
Besides the match itself, the venue will feature interactive fan zones, exclusive merchandise booths, a halftime show, and even surprise celebrity guests.
Tip: Bring your camera or phone — the entire stadium becomes a social media hotspot during this weekend.
Meet the Legends: 2025 Player Highlights
No CGI. No avatars. These football greats are really taking the field in Seoul.
Here’s who’s been confirmed for ICONS Match 2 so far:
FC Sphere (Offense Team)
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Didier Drogba (returning legend)
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Kaká
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Luís Figo
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Rivaldo
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Eden Hazard
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Park Ji-sung (Korean icon)
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Kim Byung-ji (Team leader, Korea)
Shield United (Defense Team)
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Rio Ferdinand (also returning)
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Yaya Touré
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Edwin van der Sar
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Gerard Piqué
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John Terry
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Philipp Lahm
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Lee Sang-yoon (Team leader, Korea)
This all-star cast brings decades of international football history to one field.
If you’ve only seen them in highlight reels or video games, this is your chance to see their footwork and charisma live.
💡 Lineup is subject to change — keep an eye on the FC Online official channels for updates.
Want Tickets? Here’s How the Booking System Works
Getting tickets for ICONS Match 2 might feel overwhelming if you're not familiar with how Korean ticketing works — but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
There are two main paths to securing a ticket:
Pre-Sale Access for FC Online Users
If you play the game FC Online, you’re in luck. Nexon offers a special early booking opportunity just for players. Here’s how it works:
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First, apply for a pre-sale code via the FC Online event site (Korean only)
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If selected, you’ll receive a unique code
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You must log in and verify that code before the pre-sale opens
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Once verified, you get first access to ticketing — one day ahead of everyone else
Key dates:
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Code application: July 10–August 7
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Winner notification: August 14
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Verification: August 19–21
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Pre-sale begins: August 21, 11 AM KST
Even if you’re new to FC Online, signing up and joining this promo could give you a major edge.
General Sale for Everyone
No game account? No problem. General ticket sales open right after the pre-sale ends:
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Sale begins: August 22, 11 AM KST
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Available on: Interpark Global (English version available!)
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Seats will sell out fast — especially premium zones
Make sure your payment method (Visa, Mastercard, or Korean cards) is ready before sale time.
Price Guide: How Much Do ICONS Match Tickets Cost?
Exact 2025 prices haven’t been confirmed yet, but based on last year’s event, here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan:
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A Zone (Center field): around ₩55,000
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B Zone (Side view): around ₩44,000
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C Zone (Rear or upper seating): around ₩33,000
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D Zone (General admission): around ₩22,000
Conversion tip: 1 USD ≈ 1,300 KRW (subject to change)
Booking fee: ₩1,000 per seat (approx.)
Seats are assigned during booking, so if you want a great view or to sit with friends, booking early is key.
Ticketing Tips: Boost Your Chances (Even Without Korean Skills)
Now let’s talk strategy. ICONS Match is one of those events where the best seats disappear in minutes. Here’s how to prepare like a pro — even if you’re a first-timer in Korea:
Pre-Ticketing Checklist
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Set up accounts on Nexon (for pre-sale) and Interpark Global
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Log in and save your payment method ahead of time
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Choose your top 2–3 preferred seating zones in advance
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Allow browser pop-ups — many ticketing systems use them
On the Day of Sale
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Log in 10–15 minutes before sales start
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Join the virtual queue and don’t refresh the page
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Use both desktop and mobile if possible
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Wired internet is better than Wi-Fi during rush moments
Bonus tip: If your payment fails or you time out, don’t panic. Sometimes canceled seats go back on sale within a few hours.
If all else fails, local reselling communities (like Naver Cafes or Twitter hashtags) might have verified users offering tickets at face value — but always be cautious of scams.
Plan Your Visit: Getting There & Where to Stay Nearby
So you’ve got your ticket — now what?
Getting to the stadium and finding a place to stay can make or break your ICON Match experience.
How to Get to Seoul World Cup Stadium
The stadium is easy to access via public transport:
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Subway: Line 6 → World Cup Stadium Station → Exit 2 (5 min walk)
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Bus: Look for routes like 271 or 7011. Stop at “World Cup Stadium (월드컵경기장)”
Parking is limited and fills up fast — avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
Where to Stay Nearby
If you're coming from another city or flying in, book a place early. Look for accommodations in:
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Sangam-dong (상암동) – closest to the stadium
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Digital Media City Station area – direct subway access
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Yeonnam-dong or Hongdae – popular with foreign tourists
💡 Check out Airbnb, Yanolja, or Booking.com using keywords like “World Cup Stadium Seoul.”
Watching from Abroad or Home? Streaming Options Explained
Can’t make it to Seoul? No worries — ICONS Match 2 will be streamed online so you can watch from anywhere.
Official Livestream Platforms:
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YouTube: FC Online official channel (main stream)
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SOOP (formerly AfreecaTV): streamers and fan commentary
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Possibly Naver Sports & MBC: for viewers inside Korea
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Global stream (TBA): may include English commentary
Check the official FC Online website or social media closer to the event for the final livestream links.
Some streams may offer real-time English subtitles or commentary, especially on YouTube.
Quick Answers for Foreign Visitors (FAQs You’ll Actually Need)
Q1. Can I buy tickets using a foreign credit card?
Yes, if you book through Interpark Global. Visa and Mastercard usually work.
Q2. Do I need a Korean phone number to register on ticket sites?
Not on Interpark Global — you can sign up with just an email. Local platforms like YES24 usually do require a Korean number.
Q3. Are stadium announcements or signs available in English?
Most signs are bilingual (Korean/English), but live announcements are usually in Korean. Look for screens with visual cues.
Q4. Can I bring my own food or drinks into the stadium?
Small snacks and bottled water are usually allowed, but alcohol and large meals may be restricted. Bag checks are done at the entrance.
Q5. Is the event family-friendly? Can I bring children?
Yes! ICON Match is safe, family-oriented, and includes plenty of fan activities. Children over 36 months usually need a ticket.
Q6. Will there be English-speaking staff on-site?
Some volunteers and staff may speak basic English, especially at main gates or information booths, but it’s good to prepare simple Korean phrases just in case.
Whether you're a longtime FC Online fan or just curious about Korea’s event culture, ICONS Match 2 is a rare chance to see legends live — and feel the energy of a packed stadium in Seoul.
Now that you know how to get tickets, plan your visit, or stream from home, all that’s left is to enjoy the game.
Ready to be part of football history in Korea?
