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In the summer of 2002, streets were awash in red as South Korea’s run to the semifinals at the Korea–Japan World Cup gripped the nation.
Twenty-four years later, the generation born during that fever — the so-called “World Cup kids” — are donning the Taegeuk badge and heading back to the World Cup stage.
Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America, which opens on June 11 (Korean time), Hong Myung-bo’s squad features a large contingent of 2002-born players — a clear sign of a generational shift in South Korean soccer.
One of the standouts is fullback Lee Tae-seok (Austria Vienna). He’s widely known as the son of Lee Eul-yong, one of the heroes from Korea’s 2002 run.
Lee made his senior debut against Kuwait last November and has been a regular in the squad since. His steady play in Austria earned him consideration for the World Cup roster. Comfortable at fullback and capable in midfield, he gives Hong tactical flexibility.
Should Lee see playing time, it would mark a symbolic milestone: Korea’s second father-and-son World Cup pairing, following Cha Bum-kun and Cha Du-ri.
Center back Lee Han-beom (FC Midtjylland) has also shown significant progress. Touted as a prospect during his FC Seoul days, he settled into European football after his 2023 move to Denmark.
He initially struggled to adapt to the physical style common in the Nordic leagues but has steadily improved. This season he featured in 47 official matches, scoring three goals and adding four assists, and he’s become a defensive mainstay for his club.
With strong aerial ability and progressive passing, Lee is being eyed as the next Europe-based center back to step up after Kim Min-jae. Expectations are high for him at this World Cup.
On the flanks, Yang Hyun-jun (Celtic) has enjoyed a breakout season. He helped Celtic secure a domestic double, winning both the league and the Scottish Cup.
Yang posted 10 goals and three assists in 47 appearances — his best return since moving to Europe — and recently extended his contract through 2030. Using his pace, dribbling and relentless work rate, he projects as a key attacking option for Hong’s side.
Youm Ji-sung (Swansea City) is another name to watch. The former Gwangju FC youngster won the K League 1 Young Player award before moving to the English Championship last summer.
Coaches praise Youm more for his engine, pressing and willingness to help defensively than for flashy stats. His quick transitions suit the fast, dynamic style Hong Myung-bo wants to play.
Born amid the 2002 World Cup frenzy, the “2002 kids” now carry the Taegeuk badge into the tournament. For South Korea, the 2026 World Cup in North and Central America represents a symbolic starting point for this new generation.
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