South Korea enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of Asia’s strongest representatives.

Led by legendary coach Hong Myung-bo, the Taegeuk Warriors share a group with one of the tournament hosts and hope to make another deep World Cup run.

How is South Korea entering the 2026 World Cup?

Despite coaching changes after Qatar 2022, South Korea enjoyed a strong qualifying campaign and finished unbeaten.

The Asian side secured its 12th World Cup appearance and will once again aim to reach the knockout rounds.

South Korea’s historic World Cup achievement

South Korea remain the most successful Asian nation in World Cup history thanks to their legendary run at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Co-hosting the tournament with Japan, the Koreans reached the semifinals before losing to Germany and later falling to Turkey in the third-place match.

At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, South Korea dramatically advanced to the Round of 16 before being eliminated by Brazil.

Heung-min Son remains South Korea’s main star

At 33 years old, Son Heung-min continues to be the face of South Korean football and will play in his fourth World Cup.

The current Los Angeles FC forward serves as captain and emotional leader of the squad.

The former Tottenham Hotspur player has scored three World Cup goals, including the iconic strike against Germany at Russia 2018.

Hong Myung-bo brings experience and ambition

Hong Myung-bo is not only a South Korean football legend, but also one of the country’s most respected coaches.

He guided South Korea to a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and reached the quarterfinals at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Now he begins his second spell in charge of the senior national team after coaching South Korea at Brazil 2014.

How does South Korea play?

South Korea rely on a balanced system focused on defensive solidity and quick transitions.

The team’s core revolves around:

• Son Heung-min (LAFC)
• Kang-in Lee (PSG)
• Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich)

The main uncertainty lies in goalkeeping, the only position group without players competing in Europe.

South Korea official squad for the 2026 World Cup

South Korea group and fixtures at the 2026 World Cup

South Korea were drawn into Group A alongside:

• Mexico
• Czech Republic
• South Africa

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South Korea fixtures

• South Korea vs. Czech Republic | Thursday, June 11 | 10:00 PM ET | Guadalajara Stadium
• Mexico vs. South Korea | Thursday, June 18 | 9:00 PM ET | Guadalajara Stadium
• South Africa vs. South Korea | Wednesday, June 24 | 9:00 PM ET | Monterrey Stadium

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