Fifty-nine out of 100 Japanese were cheering for World Cup cohosts South Korea after its historic advance to the semifinals, according to a Kyodo News survey.

Of the 59 who said they were cheering for South Korea, 46 said this is because South Korea is Japan's cohost in the May 31-June 30 World Cup soccer finals and because the country is part of Asia. Others said they were drawn by South Korea's fervent performance.

The questionnaire was given to 100 people throughout Japan. Male and female respondents between the ages of 13 to 77 took part.