South Korea qualified with authority, winning their third-round group with an impressive defensive record. The team is built around the enduring excellence of Son Heung-min and the commanding presence of Kim Min-jae at the back.
Coach Hong Myung-bo — a hero of the famous 2002 run — has restored defensive solidity while retaining the counter-attacking threat that makes Korea dangerous on any given day.
Key Player: Son Heung-min
At 33, Son remains one of the world's most complete forwards. His pace has dimmed slightly but his intelligence, finishing, and leadership have only grown. A World Cup to remember on home continent soil for Asia would be a fitting send-off for his international career.
Tactical Setup
Korea press high and transition fast. The 4-2-3-1 allows Son freedom to roam behind the striker, while the double pivot protects Kim Min-jae and the right centre-back. Against top European sides they will need their defensive shape to hold.
Tournament History
Eleven appearances. The 2002 semi-final run, co-hosted with Japan, remains the tournament's most remarkable story. Korea are always competitive but rarely fancied.