Oh Hyun-gyu, who had no jersey number four years ago, receives '18'

South Korean forward Oh Hyun-gyu, who was an unregistered player four years ago, has been assigned the number 18 jersey for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. This marks a significant personal achievement for the player, who was previously unable to even be assigned a number during the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

During the 2022 tournament, Oh Hyun-gyu accompanied the team as an unregistered player, meaning he was not eligible to play and did not receive a jersey number. At the time, he reportedly drew a jersey with the number 18 on it in his notebook, vowing to earn a numbered spot in the next World Cup. Four years later, he has realized this dream, now established as the team's primary striker.

Other notable jersey assignments include captain Son Heung-min, who will continue to wear the iconic number 7. Midfielder Lee Kang-in has been assigned the number 19 jersey. Meanwhile, Lee Tae-seok, son of former national player Lee Eul-yong, will wear the number 13, a jersey previously worn by his father.

The Korea Football Association, along with FIFA, released the full list of squad numbers for the 48 participating nations on Tuesday. Oh Hyun-gyu's progression highlights his development and commitment, transitioning from an outsider to a crucial member of the national team.