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Salon
Salon
Lifestyle
Joy Saha

Why are soccer players wearing masks?

Although South Korea failed to advance to the quarterfinals following their loss against Brazil, the team emerged as a fan-favorite this World Cup. Sure, they gained attention for their skills on the field, one player's idol-worthy face, their infectious charisma and . . . their teammate's choice of facial accessory. 

The player in question is Tottenham Hotspur forward / South Korea's captain Son Heung-min, who was spotted sporting a puffy all-black mask on the international pitch. Many may have mistaken Son's mask — which covered the top half of his face, including his nose — as his attempt to cosplay Hannibal Lecter or Batman. Or could it be another Korean beauty product? But in actuality, the hi-tech covering was worn as a measure of protection. 

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