Ward gets hero's welcome in South Korea
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - Hines Ward got a welcome in South Korea that even Terrible Towel-toting Steelers fans had to admire.
The MVP of Pittsburgh's Super Bowl victory over the Seattle Seahawks was greeted like a hero Monday when he arrived at Incheon International Airport with his mother Kim Young-hee, who is South Korean.
Ward was born in South Korea but hadn't been back since leaving nearly 30 years ago. He and his mother will visit the country for 10 days.
Ward's arrival was carried live on TV, with broadcasters dubbing it "a hero's return" and calling the Steelers receiver "the pride of the Korean people." Ward and his mother smiled and waved to a crowd of journalists and fans who gathered at the airport.
"It's a dream come true," Ward said. "I just want to thank the Korean community for the support for my mom and me.
"Me and my mom are going to catch up on some old traditions."
Ward became an instant star after winning the MVP at the Super Bowl, despite the fact that football is virtually an unknown sport in South Korea.
Ward will meet South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun during his visit and also receive honorary citizenship for the city of Seoul.
The Super Bowl star, whose father is black, will also be meeting with children of mixed-race backgrounds. Ward's fame here has prompted introspection about the treatment of such children, who have typically faced prejudice in conservative Korean society where pure blood ties are emphasized.
Local media have intensely covered the run-up to Ward's visit and local firms' have jockeyed for the privilege to transport him, and provide lodging and clothes for him.
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