The Official Mascot of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Korea Republic 2017 was unveiled today by the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

The mascot is a young tiger boy called Chaormi. His name, which loosely means “rise brightly with passion” in Korean, was chosen to convey a sense of soaring enthusiasm to play football and excitement for the upcoming tournament.

Chaormi is an emblematic and unique depiction of Korea Republic – striking a balance between traditional and contemporary Korean culture. He connects with Korea’s history as tigers are deeply ingrained in Korean storytelling and he is also sporting a traditional Korean Hanbok, while his modern look will appeal to young fans from all over the world.

The Official Mascot has been created to capture the enthusiasm of fans from all over the world to identify with Chaormi, a passionate, light-hearted and sporty mascot that embodies the joy of playing the game of football. According to Thierry Weil, FIFA Director of Marketing Services: “The unveiling of the Official Mascot marks another milestone for FIFA and the LOC in our preparations towards hosting the FIFA U-20 World Cup Korea Republic 2017. As Chaormi embodies the joy of playing the game, it makes him a fitting ambassador that will inspire players and fans alike.”

LOC Chairman Chung Mong-gyu added: “I hope the mascot Chaormi will publicise the FIFA U-20 World Cup Korea Republic 2017 broadly, and serve as an ambassador of the tournament to engage with fans.”

Chaormi will meet fans for the first time at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Asian qualifier between Korea Republic and China PR at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on 1 September. He is then expected to embark on a tour of the host cities with the LOC, aimed at motivating and encouraging young Koreans to engage with football and the tournament.