Son Heung-min in South Korea's 2026 World Cup squad

Why Son still matters

A fourth World Cup would be another marker of Son’s longevity. Few Asian players of his era have carried so much responsibility for so long, and South Korea have often looked to him to set the tone in big moments.

  • Son appears to remain the squad’s reference point.
  • His experience in elite European football still carries weight.
  • His leadership may matter as much as his finishing or movement.

The update also says Son is now with Los Angeles FC after leaving Tottenham Hotspur, a shift that changes the backdrop of his club career but not his standing with the national team.

A squad built on experience

The report says manager Hong Myung-bo has leaned towards players with experience in Britain and Europe. That is a sensible World Cup approach.

  • Hwang Hee-chan brings top-level pedigree.
  • Bae Jun-ho and Paik Seung-ho add midfield control.
  • Yang Hyun-jun and Eom Ji-sung offer wide options and energy.

That blend matters in tournament football. Familiarity, structure and trusted relationships can be as important as raw flair over three group games in quick succession.

The Group A challenge

The report says South Korea open against the Czech Republic on 12 June in Guadalajara, stay there to face Mexico on 19 June, and then finish against South Africa on 25 June in Monterrey.

That is not an easy path. Mexico, especially, would look like the emotional hinge of the group, while the opener could shape the entire campaign.

If Son is indeed on the squad list, the next storyline is simple: whether South Korea can turn experience into momentum before the knockout picture starts to form.