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Son Heung-min Apologizes as South Korea Misses World Cup Knockouts

6/30/2026

31 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Son Heung-min, captain of South Korea, apologized to fans on June 29 after the team’s group-stage elimination from the 2026 World Cup.
The team finished third in Group C, beating the Czech Republic 2-1 but losing to Mexico and South Africa, and missed the last-32.
Son, 33, had no goal or assist, entered the second half against South Africa after being benched, and pledged on Instagram to win back fans’ hearts.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 South Korea co-hosted the World Cup with Japan, the first Asian and jointly hosted tournament, and reached the semi-finals to finish fourth. At the 2026 World Cup—now staged by the United States, Canada and Mexico—South Korea exited the group stage after defeats to Mexico and South Africa following a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic, a stark drop from the 32-team 2002 high.

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Story summary

Son Heung-min, captain of South Korea, apologized to fans on June 29 after the team’s group-stage elimination from the 2026 World Cup.
The team finished third in Group C, beating the Czech Republic 2-1 but losing to Mexico and South Africa, and missed the last-32.
Son, 33, had no goal or assist, entered the second half against South Africa after being benched, and pledged on Instagram to win back fans’ hearts.

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