Hong Myung-bo: Experienced South Korea has no fear on world stage

Hong Myung-bo, head coach of the South Korean national football team, has voiced strong confidence in his squad's readiness for the global stage, stating that the "Taeguk Warriors" no longer fear international competition. In an interview with FIFA, Hong emphasized that the team's extensive experience playing in top European leagues has eliminated any apprehension about competing against the world's best.

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Now, if they have more confidence and build trust, I expect them to grow into a strong team.

"Now, if they have more confidence and build trust, I expect them to grow into a strong team," Hong told FIFA. He believes that with this enhanced self-assurance and camaraderie, South Korea can evolve from an unpredictable opponent to a consistently powerful force in international football. This perspective is bolstered by the fact that 19 of the 26 players selected for the squad are based overseas, including prominent names like Lee Kang-in, Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Lee Jae-sung.

Reflecting on South Korea's past World Cup achievements, including the "2002 Korea-Japan World Cup 4-강 신화" (semifinal run), Hong expressed a desire for the current generation to forge their own path. "I don't want the '2002 4-강 myth' to be a burden on the younger players," he stated. Instead, he hopes they will approach the tournament with a sense of enjoyment and a strong sense of mission and responsibility, which he believes they already possess.

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I don't want the '2002 4-강 myth' to be a burden on the younger players.

The South Korean team has arrived in Guadalajara, Mexico, the base camp for their World Cup campaign, where they will play their first two group stage matches. Their opening game is scheduled against Czechia on June 12th at the Akron Stadium. Hong stressed the importance of mutual trust among the players, suggesting it is more critical than tactical formations in achieving success on the field.

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Our players already have a great sense of mission and responsibility for the national team. I hope they play with more enjoyment than the players who participated in the 2002 World Cup.