AFC · Taegeuk Warriors

🇰🇷 South Korea

Dark horse — knockout-round threat

11 · World Cup appearances
0 · World Cup titles
Fourth place 2002 · Best finish
1928 · Founded
AFC

World Cup history

South Korea (Taegeuk Warriors) has appeared at 11 editions of the FIFA World Cup, with a best finish of Fourth place 2002. Founded in 1928, the federation enters World Cup 2026 in the AFC pool, coached by Hong Myung-bo.

  • World Cup appearances11
  • World Cup titles0
  • Best finishFourth place 2002
  • Head coachHong Myung-bo
  • Founded1928
  • FIFAAFC
Squad

Star players

  • Son Heung-min
  • Kim Min-jae
  • Hwang Hee-chan
  • Lee Kang-in
  • Jung Woo-young
Outlook

Path to the trophy

Dark horse — knockout-round threat. With a 48-team field split into 12 groups of 4, the top two and best 8 third-placed teams advance to a 32-team Round of 32 — meaning even mid-table sides have a realistic knockout pathway.

FAQ

FAQ

Has South Korea won the World Cup?

South Korea has not won the World Cup. Best finish: Fourth place 2002.

Who is the head coach of South Korea?

Hong Myung-bo leads South Korea into FIFA World Cup 2026.

How many times has South Korea played in the World Cup?

South Korea has appeared 11 times in the FIFA World Cup.

Who are South Korea's star players?

Son Heung-min, Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, Lee Kang-in, Jung Woo-young.

What confederation does South Korea represent?

South Korea plays in the AFC confederation.

When does South Korea play in the World Cup 2026?

Schedule depends on the December 2025 group draw.

What is South Korea's nickname?

Taegeuk Warriors

🇰🇷 South Korea

Plan your South Korea World Cup 2026 experience

Dark horse — knockout-round threat.

All 48 teams →
Newsletter

Travel inspiration, every week

Best guides, hidden gems and student travel tips. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.