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South Korea’s turbulent World Cup campaign ended in the group stage and may signal the international retirement of captain Son Heung‑min. After three tense days hoping to advance as one of the best third‑placed teams, results elsewhere confirmed their exit. The decisive blow came with a shock 1–0 defeat to South Africa, a match in which coach Hong Myung‑bo controversially benched Son in a gamble that failed.
South Korea finished third in Group A behind Mexico and South Africa, their opening 2–1 win over the Czech Republic proving the lone highlight. Media reaction at home has been scathing, with Yonhap calling the exit “dismal” and Newsis lamenting that fortune deserted Hong’s side.
The tournament was marred by friction between players and local reporters, plus a drone incident during training. Son, now at Los Angeles FC, has previously hinted at stepping away from the national team, and at 34, many expect this World Cup to be his last.
