The chairman of Germany's World Cup Organizing Committee has praised the 2002 event co-hosted by South Korea and Japan as a role model.

Franz Beckenbauer on Tuesday said his committee's preparations are going smoothly, and that he is studying the 2002 tournament.

He cited as the most impressive memory in 2002 South Korean fans wearing red shirts in the semi-final against Germany.

Beckenbauer also said South Korea and Japan are developing into world soccer powers along with their pro teams, and praised Asian players in Europe.

With long-time pal and Bundesliga legend Cha Beom-geun, he visited the Han River field to encourage young players.

Beckenbauer was captain of Germany's World Cup title team in 1974, then coached his country to another championship in 1990.