South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has made waves with his latest national team selection, calling up Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min despite fitness and personal concerns — while leaving out defensive stalwart Kim Min-jae, citing unavailability. With the pressure of World Cup qualification peaking, Hong’s choices reflect a clear shift toward in-form, adaptable players who are ready for the physical and tactical demands of the sweltering June clashes against Iraq and Kuwait.

Hong announced his 26-man squad on Monday for the final two matches of the AFC second-round qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These encounters are not mere formalities, despite Korea’s position at the top of their group. “These are the most important matches of this round,” Hong stressed, citing extreme weather, limited preparation time, and player form as key selection factors.

Why No Kim Min-jae?

The absence of Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae was one of the most eye-catching decisions. “Since last year, we’ve been communicating and observing his situation. Once again, we’ve concluded that he’s not in a condition to play,” Hong said. “He has a great sense of duty toward the national team, but we believe there will be future opportunities.”

Son’s Inclusion Despite Injury 

On the other hand, Son Heung-min’s call-up raised eyebrows given his ongoing foot injury and recent off-field distractions. However, Hong made it clear that Son is ready to compete. “I’m not in a position to comment on personal matters,” he said. “But I spoke to Son after the Europa League final. He assured me there’s no major problem with playing.”

Hong, who congratulated Son for leading Tottenham to their first trophy in 17 years, added: “It was a proud moment not just for him, but for all of us. His winning mentality is a huge asset for the team.”

New Faces and Notable Omissions

The call-up of Jeon Jin-woo — the current top scorer in the K League — marked another notable decision. “His confidence and goal-scoring ability caught our attention. He’s not just a winger anymore; he’s now playing effectively in the pocket. His recent goals for Anyang came from central positions, which aligns well with how we want to play,” Hong explained.

In contrast, the omission of striker Ju Min-kyu sparked questions. Hong was clear: “He’s not excluded because of poor form. He’s scoring, yes — but this is an away match where we need speed. Players like Son, Hwang Hee-chan offer that, and we already have similar profiles in Oh Se-hun and Oh Hyeon-gyu.”

Veterans With Limited Club Minutes Still Called Up

Some fans questioned the inclusion of Hwang Hee-chan and Lee Kang-in, both of whom have struggled for minutes at their clubs. Hong defended the decision: “Game time is important, but the national team must look beyond that. These are difficult away games, and I believe they can play vital roles even if their club minutes are limited.”

A Shift in Midfield Dynamics

There’s also a subtle overhaul in the midfield engine room. With both Hwang In-beom and Park Yong-woo on yellow cards, alternatives like Won Du-jae and Park Jin-seob have been drafted in. “They offer slightly different styles, and we’ll make decisions based on the game situation,” said Hong. “For Hwang’s role, Kim Jin-kyu seems to be the most competitive option at the moment.”

A Broader View: What the Team Needs

Hong didn’t shy away from commenting on the team’s deeper issues. “There are players who are desperate to be here, and others who aren’t,” he admitted. “That gap needs to be narrowed. Talent alone won’t elevate this team if there’s no cohesion or trust. National team players must understand the responsibility they carry.”

He continued: “We are a team sport. It’s not about individual stardom. Players being scouted by European clubs is great, but that doesn't mean they’re better than our K League players. Some haven’t played for a month — that matters.”

Focused Only on the Next Match

Though the World Cup itself looms just a year away, Hong refused to elaborate on long-term plans. “My focus is entirely on these two matches. Qualification must come first. Once that’s secured, we can talk about the broader vision.”

He also warned against complacency: “We only need a draw to qualify — that’s dangerous thinking. I told the players: you don’t just walk into a match and expect results. Every position must be earned.”

Preparing for the Iraq Challenge

South Korea’s away match in Iraq will be their most difficult test. Iraq is not only classified as a travel-restricted zone, but also boasts a notoriously hostile home environment. “We’ll be flying by charter thanks to help from the association,” Hong said. “The weather will be hot, so managing player fitness and substitutions will be key. We must adapt swiftly to the circumstances.”

The Iraq team, under a new head coach, is unpredictable. “They’ve changed both coach and personnel. We don’t know exactly who we’ll face, but we’re preparing thoroughly.”

South Korea 25' June Squad – 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Goalkeepers: Jo Hyeon-woo (Ulsan HD), Kim Dong-heon (Gimcheon Sangmu), Lee Chang-geun (Daejeon Hana Citizen)
Defenders: Cho Yu-min (Sharjah), Kwon Kyung-won (Khorfakkan), Lee Han-beom (Midtjylland), Kim Ju-sung, Choi Jun (FC Seoul), Park Seung-wook, Cho Hyun-taek (Gimcheon Sangmu), Seol Young-woo (Crvena Zvezda), Lee Tae-seok (Pohang Steelers)
Midfielders: Park Yong-woo (Al Ain), Park Jin-seob (Jeonbuk Hyundai), Won Du-jae (Khorfakkan), Hwang In-beom (Feyenoord), Kim Jin-kyu, Jeon Jin-woo (Jeonbuk Hyundai), Lee Jae-sung (Mainz), Son Heung-min (Tottenham), Hwang Hee-chan (Wolves), Moon Seon-min (FC Seoul), Yang Hyun-jun (Celtic), Lee Kang-in (PSG)
Forwards: Oh Hyeon-gyu (Genk), Oh Se-hun (Machida Zelvia)

With the road to North America 2026 tightening, Hong’s decisions reflect a mix of calculated risks and unwavering belief in his process. The next two matches won’t just decide Korea’s World Cup fate — they may set the tone for the identity of this national team for years to come.