Hwang In-beom seals move to Porto after World Cup 2026
South Korea midfielder Hwang In-beom has completed his transfer to Portuguese champions Porto. The deal is a three-year contract with a one-year option, though the fee remains undisclosed. He will wear the No. 16 shirt under manager Francesco Farioli when the 2026/27 season kicks off.
According to Porto’s announcement on 1 July 2025, Hwang joins as the first South Korea player to move clubs after the World Cup. South Korea currently sit third in FIFA World Cup 2026 with three points from three games - one win and two losses.
A proven leader in red
Hwang has been a South Korea regular since 2018 and was named Asian Cup MVP in 2019. He featured at two World Cups (2018 and 2022) and delivered a standout display at the 2026 tournament, scoring once and setting up another in the 2-1 comeback win over Czechia. Now 29, he brings valuable experience to Porto’s midfield.
From K League to Europe and back
Hwang made his K League debut for FC Seoul in March 2015 at just 18. Two months later he became the youngest-ever goalscorer in the K League while at Daejeon Citizen. He later moved to Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada, played in Russia, and returned to Seoul before re-establishing himself in Europe during the 2022/23 season.
His move to Porto marks the first major transfer of a South Korea player following the 2026 World Cup. Porto currently trail league leaders Mexico by six points and are chasing their first title in three years.
What’s next for South Korea
Hwang’s transfer is the first post-World Cup move for a South Korea player. The team drew 1-1 with Jordan on 25 March 2025 and has gone unbeaten in its last two matches - a win and a draw. His arrival at Porto adds depth to a South Korea side that has scored two goals and conceded three so far in the tournament.
