FIFA: South Korea Needs Rebuilding as Son Heung-min Turns 34

FIFA has evaluated the performance of Asian nations in the 2026 World Cup, concluding that South Korea requires a generational shift and a rebuilding of its national team. The global football governing body highlighted the team's early exit from the tournament.

South Korea began their campaign with a promising 2-1 comeback victory against Czechia in Guadalajara. However, this initial success proved short-lived. The Taeguk Warriors subsequently suffered consecutive 1-0 defeats against co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, leading to their elimination from the group stage. This marked the third time in the last four World Cups that South Korea failed to progress beyond the initial phase.

Following the disappointing results, head coach Hong Myung-bo departed from his role. FIFA pointed out that with star player Son Heung-min now 34 years old, South Korea appears to be in need of a significant rebuilding process. The organization suggested that the team must focus on developing new talent and restructuring for upcoming competitions, including the AFC Asian Cup.