🇰🇷 Korea Republic at the 2026 World Cup
From the 2002 semi-finals to a new generation led by Son Heung-min.
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From 2002 to 2026
South Korea co-hosted the 2002 World Cup with Japan and reached the semi-finals, beating Spain and Italy along the way. That achievement still shapes how Korean football sees itself. Regular World Cup qualifiers with a generation of players developed at top European clubs.
At the 2026 World Cup, Korea Republic are placed in Group A alongside Mexico, Czechia, South Africa. The top 2 teams from every group advance to the Round of 32, and the 8 best third-placed teams also go through. Every match matters from minute one.
With 11 World Cup appearances in their history and a best finish of Fourth place (2002), Korea Republic bring experience to a tournament that is larger and more competitive than ever before.
Group A Draw
All 4 teams in Korea Republic's group. Top 2 advance automatically, plus the 8 best third-placed teams across all 12 groups.
How the 2026 Group Stage Works
Korea Republic's 2026 Squad
Projected, official call-up to be confirmed
Likely first eleven
in a 4-2-3-1.
Editorial first XI based on qualifying form, club minutes, and Hong Myung-bo's recent selection. The official sheet is named one hour before kickoff.
- 1Kim Seung-gyu
- 2Kim Moon-hwan
- 4Kim Min-jae
- 19Kim Young-gwon
- 3Kim Jin-su
- 6Hwang In-beom
- 16Jung Woo-young
- 17Lee Jae-sung
- 7Son Heung-minCAPTAIN
- 18Lee Kang-in
- 9Oh Hyeon-gyu
All 24 players
Goalkeepers
3 playersDefenders
8 playersMidfielders
6 playersForwards
7 playersEditorial selection based on current first-team form. The final 26-player squad is at the head coach's discretion and is announced approximately one month before the tournament.
Korea Republic in AFC
Asia (AFC)
AFC sends 8 Asian teams, reflecting the continent's growing football quality. Japan and South Korea regularly reach the knockout stage.
Korea Republic competed against other AFC nations through a multi-year qualifying campaign to secure their spot at the 2026 World Cup. The expanded format of 48 teams gave more nations a path to the tournament than ever before.
Other AFC teams at 2026
No Ticket? Watch Korea Republic At a Fan Zone
Every Korea Republic group match is screened live on the giant screen at the FIFA Fan Fest in the host city. Free entry, no queue, just show up. Every other host city also screens every match, so wherever you are, you can join the crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Group A Opponents
The teams Korea Republic face in the group stage
