Korea Republic returned to the World Cup in 2026, looking to improve on their 2022 knockout-round exit. Under Hong Myung-bo, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 6 | -4 | 1 |
South Korea arrive at their 11th consecutive World Cup one of the longest runs in the modern era. Son Heung-min, 33, has remained the on-pitch leader through multiple coaching cycles. New manager Hong Myung-bo himself the captain of Korea's 2002 semi-final side is tasked with a generational handover that keeps Son central while preparing life after him.
Korea Republic endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a hard-fought 2-1 win against Czech Republic, a narrow 0-1 loss to Mexico, and a narrow 0-1 loss to South Africa. The narrowest of defeats against South Africa ended what had been a promising tournament run.
1won2lost
2scored3conceded
Failed to score in 2 of 3 matches eliminated in the group stage.
Son Heung-min, 33, won the 2021-22 Premier League Golden Boot with Tottenham and remains one of Asia's most decorated players ever. 2026 is his fourth World Cup; pundits speculate it may be his last.
4yellow
1.3per match
Oh Hyeon-Gyu led Korea Republic's attack with 1 goal at the 2026 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with In-Beom, both with 1.
Hong, 56, returns to the Korean national team for the second time (he briefly coached during the 2014 WC). A 2002 semi-finalist captain, 2012 Olympic bronze coach, and K-League title winner, his cultural weight within Korean football is unmatched. Leading Korea Republic at his first World Cup 1 win, 2 losses under Myung-bo.
