South Korea's World Cup Squad Heads to Utah Training Camp Amid Injury Recovery and High Expectations
South Korea's national football team has begun its pre-World Cup training camp in Salt Lake City, Utah, as head coach Hong Myung-bo finalizes preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The squad, announced on May 16, includes a mix of domestic K League players, European-based stars, and a few surprising selections, as the team aims to advance from Group A in Mexico.
Squad Unveiled and Training Camp Underway
Hong Myung-bo unveiled his 26-man squad on May 16, with six players from the K League and three from the English Football League Championship among the first group to depart for Utah on May 18. The K League contingent includes Ulsan HD FC midfielder Lee Dong-gyeong, who was named the 2025 K League 1 MVP, and Gangwon FC defender Lee Gi-hyuk, who has just one international cap but earned selection through his performances this season.
Lee Gi-hyuk, 25, described himself as a "surprise selection" and said he aims to reward the coach's faith. "I am sure coach Hong picked me for a reason and I will try to keep playing at a high level at the World Cup," he told reporters at Incheon International Airport. Lee has played mostly as a center back for Gangwon but can also operate as a defensive midfielder or left fullback.
Lee Dong-gyeong, 28, expressed confidence in his ability to contribute at the World Cup, saying he wants to "demonstrate that the K League is a competitive league and players here are just as good as anyone." He emphasized his defensive improvement this season and his knack for finishing chances in the attacking zone.
Key Players and Injury Concerns
Among the European-based players, midfielder Hwang In-beom of Feyenoord has been a focal point of concern due to a series of injuries. According to Yonhap, Hwang spent most of the past six months rehabbing a calf injury from September, a thigh injury from November, and an ankle injury from March that ended his club season. The Korea Football Association assigned national team medical staff to oversee his recovery, and Hwang reported feeling nearly fully fit upon arrival in Utah. "I can jump into training with the rest of the squad right away. There's no need for concern," he said, though he acknowledged needing to regain match sharpness through playing time.
Midfielder Bae Jun-ho, who plays for Stoke City, was a standout at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and is the only player from that squad to be selected for the senior World Cup. He has scored two goals in 12 international appearances and stressed the increased responsibility he feels. "This World Cup is not about gaining experience. It's about proving yourself," Bae said.
Altitude Preparation and Friendlies
The team's training camp in Salt Lake City, situated about 1,300 meters above sea level, is designed to prepare players for the high altitude of Guadalajara, Mexico, where South Korea will play two of their three Group A matches. The squad will play two friendlies during the camp: against Trinidad and Tobago on May 30 at BYU South Field in Provo, Utah, and against El Salvador on June 3 at the same venue.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo explained the choice of Utah, noting that while the team might have scheduled matches against stronger opponents elsewhere, the priority was acclimatization. The team's primary objective, as stated by Hong, is to qualify for the knockout stage from the group, which includes Czechia, whom they face on June 11 in Guadalajara.
Coaching Philosophy and Expectations
Hong emphasized a collaborative approach during the extended training period, which he called a luxury not usually afforded before friendlies. "More so than in the past, we as a coaching staff will be leaning on players' ideas and suggestions to run the team," he said. "If we let these players make their own decisions and hold themselves accountable... then I think we will have a team that runs itself." This philosophy is part of Hong's effort to empower players and foster ownership of their performances.
The World Cup, which has expanded to 48 nations, will see the knockout phase begin with a round of 32. South Korea's results in the group stage will determine their path, and the team is focused on building momentum through the friendlies before the tournament opener.