sports
South Korea World Cup 2026 team guide
Doubts over formation and form of key players means hopes of advancing to knockout stages are not high
TL;DR
- South Korea has limited preparation time for a potential 3-4-3 formation, with a lack of capable wing-backs.
- Key players like Son Heung-min, Kim Min-jae, and Hwang In-beom are dealing with injuries and inconsistent club form.
- The team went undefeated in their 16 qualifying matches but faces a difficult group including co-hosts Mexico.
- Coach Hong Myung-bo, a legendary figure, lacks media and public support and had a winless World Cup in 2014.
- Son Heung-min is the team's star player, but his ability to perform on the international stage amid personal struggles is a question.
- Oh Hyeon-gyu is a rising talent who has found form in Turkey and could challenge for a starting striker role.
- Lee Jae-sung, a veteran player, is expected to provide tenacity and balance despite recent injury layoffs.
- Fan support is expected to be low due to geographical distance and a fractured relationship between the KFA and the public.
- Former US President Trump's past policies and recent actions have negatively impacted his image in Korea.