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A deeply symbolic meeting in central Türkiye brought together generations shaped by the Korean War, as Konyaspor’s South Korean midfielder Jin-ho Jo visited 96-year-old Korean War veteran Ihsan Damdam at his home in Konya, expressing gratitude on behalf of his country and presenting him with a jersey bearing the number 96.
Jin-ho Jo, a 23-year-old player who joined Trendyol Super Lig side TUMOSAN Konyaspor at the start of the season, visited Damdam together with club officials. The visit took place at the veteran’s home in the city center, where emotional moments unfolded alongside warm and lighthearted conversations.
For international readers, the Korean War refers to the conflict fought between 1950 and 1953 on the Korean Peninsula, during which Turkish troops participated as part of a United Nations force supporting South Korea. Turkish veterans of the war are still widely respected in South Korea today.
Speaking about his memories, Ihsan Damdam recalled the difficult conditions Turkish soldiers faced during the conflict. He emphasized that their mission was far from symbolic, stating, “Kore’ye gezmeye gitmedik, savasa gittik,” describing intense fighting in heavily contested areas and harsh wartime experiences.
Damdam explained that Korean visitors still come to see him, some becoming emotional and expressing gratitude, telling him that their country might not exist without the sacrifices of Turkish soldiers. He noted that many Koreans show deep respect during these encounters, reflecting how the war remains part of collective memory in South Korea.
Calling Jo “like a grandson,” the veteran said he was happy and honored by the visit, while also expressing support for Konyaspor and wishing success for the team. He added that he once attended matches regularly and hoped to watch Jo play in person again.
For Jin-ho Jo, the visit carried meaning beyond football. The midfielder explained that he wanted to take part in the club’s social responsibility activities and described the meeting as unforgettable.
He thanked not only Damdam but all Turkish veterans who fought for his country, saying the emotions were difficult to describe and emphasizing that every Korean citizen carries similar feelings of gratitude. He also invited the veteran to attend one of his matches, saying he would be happy to see him watching from the stands.
Konyaspor Football Branch Manager Yusuf Kucukbakirci said the visit had been planned earlier but was delayed due to the team’s busy fixture schedule. When Jo learned that Konya was home to a Korean War veteran, he became excited about arranging the meeting.
Kucukbakirci described the encounter as a meaningful coming together, adding that the club hopes to host Damdam at a match soon. He also noted that Jo has quickly won the affection of supporters, making the visit significant both socially and symbolically.
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