Coach Hong Myung-bo said he will give players more ownership during preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He unveiled the 26-man squad in Seoul on Saturday.
Coach Hong Myung-bo said he plans to create an environment where players make their own decisions and hold themselves accountable. "We plan to embrace our players' opinions and create a fun and comfortable environment," he said.
South Korea was drawn in Group A with Mexico, Czechia and South Africa, with all three group matches set to be played in Mexico. The team will hold a pre-tournament camp in Salt Lake City, Utah, with Hong and domestic league players departing on Monday.
Son Heung-min is set for his fourth World Cup appearance. Thirteen players earned their first call-up, including surprise selection Lee Gi-hyuk of Gangwon FC.
Hong said reaching the round of 32 is the primary goal. "Once you get there, you don't know what's going to happen," he added.
