Metropolitan daily Tokyo Shimbun said the nation could learn lessons from the national team.
"To be independent, to take responsibility, to be unified, to
be patient, to be forgiving, to be inspired, to reflect, to
persevere and to give thanks."
The co-hosts' departure was made harder to bear by South Korea's thrilling
extra-time victory over Italy.
But while some older Japanese were resentful of South Korean's victory, younger fans did not begrudge their co-hosts their success.
"I would definitely support South Korea," said college
student Yuki Kawamura.
"I've been interested in South
Korean movies and music. So I will support their soccer
team this time."
Crowds of youthful Japanese supporters joined ethnic Korean
residents in their celebrations in Tokyo late on Tuesday.
"We wish we were in their position," said journalist
Junji Noda. "But since we're not, I'd like to see Korea
win. It would be great for Asian soccer."