South Korea will travel to North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with ambitions of replicating their historic 2002 semi-final run.
The Taeguk Warriors secured their spot in dominant fashion, topping AFC Group C with five wins and one draw, accumulating 16 points without a single defeat.
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This marks South Korea's 11th consecutive World Cup appearance, a streak dating back to 1986. Their best performance remains the 2002 semi-final finish, an Asian record.
More recently, they reached the round of 16 in Qatar 2022 before losing to Brazil.
Group Stage Draw and Schedule
South Korea have been drawn in Group A alongside Mexico, South Africa, and Czechia.
The group matches will take place in June, with two games in Guadalajara and one in Monterrey.
- June 12: South Korea vs Czechia at Estadio Akron, Guadalajara (3am BST)
- June 19: Mexico vs South Korea at Estadio Akron, Guadalajara (2am BST)
- June 25: South Africa vs South Korea at Estadio BBVA, Monterrey (2am BST)
Head coach Hong Myung-bo stated that the primary aim is to advance beyond the group stage and see what unfolds.
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The squad features a mix of seasoned European professionals and key domestic talents.
Key players include Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-Jae, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-In, and Wolverhampton forward Hwang Hee-Chan.
The 26-man roster also includes goalkeepers Jo Hyun-Woo, Kim Seung-Gyu, and Song Bum-Keun, along with defenders such as Kim Tae-Hyun and Seol Young-Woo.
Midfielders like Hwang In-Beom and Paik Seung-Ho provide depth, while attackers Yang Hyun-Jun and Lee Jae-Sung add creativity.
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South Korea will aim to build on their recent knockout-stage experience and make another deep run in North America.
