The 2002 FIFA World Cup, the 17th staging of the World Cup, was held in South Korea and Japan from May 31 to June 30. The two countries were chosen as hosts by FIFA in May 1996. For the first time in its history, the World Cup was organized by two countries. It was also the first World Cup held in Asia, and the first held outside South America, Europe, and North America. Brazil won the tournament for a record fifth time, beating Germany 2-0 in the final.

This was the first ever World Cup competition to be hosted in Asia.