Korea Republic World Cup 2026: Son's Generation Seeks Glory
When South Korea co-hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup and reached the semi-finals, it ignited a football revolution across the nation. Twenty-four years later, the Taegeuk Warriors enter the 2026 World Cup with arguably the most talented squad in their history. Led by Son Heung-min - Asia's greatest ever player - and featuring world-class talents at Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, Korea Republic arrives in North America with genuine ambitions to surpass their 2002 achievement.
Korean football passion remains unmatched in Asia. The Red Devils supporters create electric atmospheres that have become legendary in World Cup history. From the street celebrations of 2002 to Gwanghwamun Square transforming into a sea of red, Korean fans bring intensity and organization that rival any nation. American stadiums will witness this incredible support in 2026.
Group A: Host Nation Mexico and African Challenge
Korea draws Group A alongside host nation Mexico,South Africa, and the UEFA Playoff D winner. The clash against Mexico at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara is one of the group stage's marquee fixtures - a battle between passionate football cultures in one of Mexico's most atmospheric venues. The 67,000-capacity stadium will create an intense environment.
Korea opens at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, one of the tournament's most modern stadiums. The final group match against South Africa takes place at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City - the only stadium to host three World Cup tournaments, where Maradona scored the "Hand of God" and Pelé lifted the trophy.
Son Heung-min: Asia's Greatest Ever Player
Son Heung-min has transcended Korean football to become a global icon. The Tottenham captain has won the Premier League Golden Boot, scored in a Champions League final, and consistently ranked among the world's best forwards. At 33 during the 2026 World Cup, Son enters his final opportunity to lead Korea to World Cup glory. His combination of pace, finishing, and leadership makes him the tournament's most dangerous Asian player.
The supporting cast reflects Korea's golden generation. Kim Min-jae has established himself as one of the world's elite center-backs at Bayern Munich, nicknamed "The Monster" for his commanding presence. Lee Kang-in pulls strings for Paris Saint-Germain, combining Korean technical brilliance with European polish. Hwang Hee-chan provides Premier League experience from Wolverhampton. This collection of talent playing at Europe's biggest clubs gives Korea genuine knockout-stage potential.
AFC Powerhouse: Asian Football Rising
Korea enters alongside fellow AFC nations Japan,Australia,Saudi Arabia, andIran. The expanded 48-team format provides unprecedented opportunity for Asian football. Japan's 2022 victories over Germany andSpain, combined with Saudi Arabia's Argentina upset, proved Asian teams can compete with anyone.
2002 Legacy: The Spirit of Korea-Japan
The 2002 World Cup remains South Korea's greatest sporting achievement. Victories overSpain,Italy, andPortugal en route to fourth place transformed Korean football forever. That tournament produced legends - Park Ji-sung, Ahn Jung-hwan, Hong Myung-bo - whose spirit lives on in the current squad. Hong Myung-bo, now the national team coach, brings that championship mentality to 2026.
Korean-American Diaspora: Red Wave Across America
The substantial Korean-American community, particularly in Los Angeles, New York, and Texas, ensures passionate home support. Korean restaurants and community centers across America will transform into viewing parties, while thousands will travel to Mexican venues for group matches. The Red Devils supporters' coordinated chants and thunderous drum beats will echo through every stadium where Korea plays.