South Korea knocked out in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup

South Korea's 2026 World Cup ended in the group stage, well short of expectations for a squad often described as a golden generation. Coached by Hong Myung-bo and captained by Son Heung-min, the team finished third in Group A with three points.

The campaign began with a 2-1 win over Czechia, but Korea then lost 1-0 to co-host Mexico and 1-0 to South Africa. The defeat by South Africa, settled by a single goal in the second half, left the team on three points. That was not enough to rank among the best third-placed sides who advanced to the Round of 32.

It was the first time since the 2018 tournament in Russia that Korea had failed to get out of the group. The early exit prompted heavy criticism at home of the coach, the tactics and the senior players, and raised questions about Son's international future. That scrutiny set the stage for later reports of tension inside the squad, which is the background to Son's latest comments.