South Korean footballer Yang Hyun-jun laments team's World Cup exit, vows to fight

South Korean national team forward Yang Hyun-jun acknowledged the somber mood within the squad following their elimination from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The team's hopes were dashed after a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in their final group stage match, leaving them in third place and reliant on the outcomes of other games to determine their progression.

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We brought home a victory in the first match in a good atmosphere, but it's very disappointing that we couldn't secure any points in the second and third matches.

"We brought home a victory in the first match in a good atmosphere, but it's very disappointing that we couldn't secure any points in the second and third matches," Yang stated during a press conference at the team's base camp in Sapopan, Mexico. He attributed the loss to unexpected mistakes on the field, which led to conceding a goal and a subsequent drop in confidence.

This tournament marked Yang's first World Cup appearance, having earned his spot on the team based on his performance with Scottish club Celtic. He debuted as a substitute in the second match against Mexico but watched from the bench as the team fell to third place after the loss to South Africa.

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There were variables that always occur on the field, and due to mistakes we didn't anticipate, we conceded a goal and continued to make mistakes, which lowered our confidence.

"I've been running towards the World Cup alone, and I'm so disappointed to be in this situation. I should have played with more responsibility," Yang said, expressing his regret. He pledged to give his all if another chance arises, stating, "If I'm given the opportunity, I will play with my head down, showing a will to win, not just for the team but for the fans who must be very sorry."

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I've been running towards the World Cup alone, and I'm so disappointed to be in this situation. I should have played with more responsibility.

He added, "Whether it's five minutes or ten minutes, I will show a real will to win, somehow." The team now awaits the results of other group matches to see if they can still qualify for the next round.

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If I'm given the opportunity, I will play with my head down, showing a will to win, not just for the team but for the fans who must be very sorry. Whether it's five minutes or ten minutes, I will show a real will to win, somehow.