Cho Jin-ho (22·Konyaspor), who plays in the Turkish Süper Lig, left a deep impression off the pitch. He personally visited a Korean War veteran to express his gratitude, drawing significant attention locally.
Turkish outlet AA Spor reported on the 15th (Korean time) that Konyaspor midfielder Cho Jin-ho met 96-year-old Turkish veteran İhsan Dadam, who fought in the Korean War, and presented him with a No. 96 jersey representing his age. It said the meaningful visit of repayment has captured fans' hearts both inside and outside the stadium.
According to the report, Cho Jin-ho visited Dadam's home in the Konya region in person. When the door opened, he bowed deeply to greet and show respect, and the scene left a strong impression locally because it was a gesture rarely seen in European cultural circles.
Turkish media Hakimiyet said a young player born in 2003 greeted a seasoned veteran with the Korean cultural gesture of deep bowing, which expresses the deepest respect. It reported that Dadam was greatly moved by the Korean people's gratitude conveyed in this respectful greeting.
Dadam took out a black-and-white photo album from the Korean War era and shared his memories, and the two flipped through the photos together while talking. Cho Jin-ho said he sincerely meant, "If you had not been here, Korea would not be enjoying these opportunities today. I came to offer thanks on behalf of the homeland."
At the end of the visit, Cho Jin-ho gifted Dadam a Konyaspor jersey bearing his name. The number on the back was 96, symbolizing his age. The veteran was very pleased and blessed the young player's future.
The meeting quickly spread among Konyaspor fans and on social media. It has been evaluated as a scene that showed sports can be a bridge between people and nations beyond mere competition.
Born in 2003, Cho Jin-ho is a Jeonbuk Hyundai youth product and a versatile player who can play as a fullback and a central midfielder. After making his professional debut at Fenerbahçe in 2023 and spending time on loan, he transferred to Konyaspor this season. He has appeared in 14 league matches, posting an 88% pass success rate and an average of 3.6 successful duels per game, establishing himself as a key midfield asset for the team.
[Photo] Hakimiyet capture.
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