The concern is not only whether Bae can tolerate match action. He has also missed the team sessions needed to rehearse pressing, midfield rotations and set-piece responsibilities.
With the midfielder absent from collective training shortly before the match, South Korea would have little preparation time to build him into the starting XI. Even if he were cleared to play, a late cameo could be more realistic than a full appearance.
Bae’s potential absence gives the coaching staff a straightforward choice: trust a fully prepared alternative or adjust the midfield structure to compensate.
South Korea may prefer continuity over individual quality in their first match. A replacement who has completed the full training programme would offer greater certainty in defensive positioning and possession work, particularly against a Czechia side capable of testing the midfield physically.
The report’s wording remains cautious, but the training pattern is clear: Bae has yet to rejoin the group, and that leaves his availability in serious doubt.
Missing the opener would not necessarily end Bae’s campaign. South Korea are scheduled to face Mexico on 19 June and South Africa on 25 June, giving him further recovery targets after the Czechia match.
The next decisive update will be whether he progresses from individual rehabilitation into full team training. Until that happens, Bae appears more likely to support South Korea from the sidelines than influence their opening World Cup fixture.