A tournament of milestones
Kim Seung-gyu is poised to feature in his fourth World Cup, a landmark that arrives alongside a personal sacrifice few can fathom: he missed the birth of his daughter while focusing on tournament preparation.
The 31‑year‑old has spoken openly about the emotional cost of that absence, noting that he hopes to repay his family with performances that bring pride and tangible results.
Competition for the starting goalkeeper role is intense, with Jo Hyeon‑woo challenging him for the jersey, adding a compelling subplot to his preparation.
South Korea sits in Group A with Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Africa, and the team will begin its campaign against the Czechs in Guadalajara on June 11, a match that could set the tone for the entire tournament.
For Kim, the tournament may well mark the final chapter of his World Cup journey, yet he approaches it with the same excitement he felt during his first appearance on the world stage.