South Korea at World Cup 2026: Son Heung-min's Last Great Push

Captain Son Heung-min leads South Korea into the 2026 World Cup, blending world-class experience with an exciting new generation. Here is what to expect from the Taegeuk Warriors.

South Korea arrive at the 2026 World Cup as one of Asia's strongest and most experienced sides, carrying the hopes of a football-mad nation and the legacy of one of the continent's greatest-ever players. For captain Son Heung-min, now in the latter stages of a glittering career, this may be the last and best chance to deliver a deep World Cup run.

Son and a New Generation

Son Heung-min remains the heartbeat of this team — a world-class forward whose pace, two-footed finishing, and leadership have carried South Korea for over a decade. He reached the round of 16 at Qatar 2022 with a famous late win over Portugal, and he will be desperate to go further in what is likely his final World Cup.

Crucially, he is no longer carrying the team alone. Lee Kang-in has blossomed into a creative force capable of unlocking defences with his vision and set-piece quality. At the back, Kim Min-jae is one of the finest centre-backs in world football, a commanding presence who allows South Korea to compete physically with anyone. Hwang Hee-chan adds further pace and goal threat to a genuinely dangerous attack.

Group A: A Strong Position

South Korea were drawn into Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. It is a competitive but navigable group, and with their blend of star quality and tournament experience, the Taegeuk Warriors will fancy their chances of advancing — quite possibly as group winners.

South Korea's traditional strengths — relentless energy, organisation, and collective discipline — combined with genuine individual quality, make them a difficult opponent for anyone.

A Fitting Send-Off?

This is a South Korea side capable of more than just making up the numbers. With Son chasing a memorable finale, Kim Min-jae anchoring the defence, and a talented supporting cast, the Taegeuk Warriors have the tools to reach the knockout rounds and beyond. Follow every South Korea match live on KickD.

⚽

KickD Sports Desk

Our editorial team covers Arab football and the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on kickd.net — real-time scores, group standings, and match analysis updated around the clock.

⚡ Follow the action live

Real-time scores for every World Cup 2026 match on KickD

Live Scores WC 2026 Hub

More from KickD

Match Report

Romo's Strike Sends Mexico Top as Hosts Edge South Korea 1–0

A second-half goal from Luis Romo gave host nation Mexico a 1–0 win over South Korea in Guadalajara, a second straight victory that sent El Tri to the top of Group A and into the knockout-round picture.

Match Report

South Korea 2–1 Czechia — World Cup 2026 Group A Match Report

Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in starred as South Korea opened their Group A campaign with a controlled 2–1 victory over Czechia at SoFi Stadium. Patrik Schick pulled one back but it was too late.

Team Preview

Iraq at World Cup 2026: The Lions of Mesopotamia on the Biggest Stage

Iraq qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of Asia's representatives, bringing a passionate fanbase and a squad with real quality. Can the Lions of Mesopotamia spring a surprise in North America?

Team Preview

Ghana at World Cup 2026: The Black Stars Chase Redemption

Four-time World Cup participants and 2010 quarter-finalists, Ghana return in 2026 with Mohammed Kudus leading a revitalised Black Stars. Here is what to expect.