A group-stage exit in 1994 had been a sobering lesson. Korea Republic returned in 1998 with renewed purpose. Under Bum-kun Cha, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 2 | 5 | 5 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 5 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 9 | -7 | 1 |
Korea Republic's campaign never truly ignited, and a group stage exit brought an early end to their World Cup hopes. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
Korea Republic endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a 1-3 defeat against Mexico, a heavy 0-5 defeat to Netherlands, and a 1-1 draw with Belgium. Korea Republic's tournament ended at the first round, a campaign that never truly got going.
1drawn2lost
2scored9conceded
Winless throughout conceded 9 goals in 3 matches.
Seok-ju Ha led Korea Republic's attack with 1 goal at the 1998 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Yoo, both with 1.
7yellow1red
2.7per match
Ha sent off vs Mexico Lee booked twice.
The tactical mind behind Korea Republic's 1998 campaign. Winless under Cha leading Korea Republic at his first World Cup.
The team's tactics, marked by defensive solidity and occasional counter-attacks, were not enough to overcome the Netherlands' clinical efficiency in their 0-5 loss. Korea Republic also showed resilience against Belgium but ultimately succumbed to a strong Mexican side.
