Son mocked over military service and a drone shot down - will South Korea get chaotic World Cup back on track?
South Korea's national football team is facing internal and external challenges during the 2026 World Cup, including poor performance from star player Son Heung-min. Despite off-pitch distractions and a recent loss to Mexico, the team remains in contention to progress to the next round.
Why it matters
The performance of high-profile athletes and national teams in major global tournaments often carries significant cultural and social weight.
Son Heung-min has not convinced in a central role for the South Korea team. Photograph: Ulises Ruiz/AFP/Getty Images View image in fullscreen Son Heung-min has not convinced in a central role for the South Korea team. Photograph: Ulises Ruiz/AFP/Getty Images World Cup 2026 Son mocked over military service and a drone shot down – will South Korea get chaotic World Cup back on track? Hong Myung-bo’s squad has had to deal with issues off the pitch but a point against South Africa is enough to progress
The article provides a sports analysis of team performance and player form without partisan bias.
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