With the World Cup finals just a few hours away, the South Korean capital Seoul has already kicked off the tournament with a 10－hour cultural extravaganza. Thousands of people turned out in the city for the spectacular curtain－raiser.
Artists from all over the country tested their tonsils and moved to the beat on Thursday in what organisers describe as a world folk arts celebration. The festival reached its crescendo with a dazzling light show and fireworks display. The tournament's official opening ceremony is due to begin at 6:30 PM, Beijing time. The 30－minute production is based on the theme of "From the East" and is designed to convey a message of peace and unity ahead of what should be an intense contest of sporting ability and style. At 7:30, viewers throughout the world will be able to tune into the opening match between defending champions France and up－and－comers, Senegal.
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