South Korea Football in Crisis, Needs to Learn from Japan

South Korea's football team is in crisis after being eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The BBC has criticized the reality of Korean football, suggesting that it needs to learn from Japan's systematic approach.

What's the problem?

The problem with Korean football is multifaceted, but the biggest issue is the incompetence of the leadership and the lack of vision. Criticism is being directed at the Korean Football Association's leadership, including Chairman Chung Mong-gyu.

What's Japan's secret to success?

Japan has grown into a powerhouse in Asia with a systematic approach. Japan, which used to look up to Korea and follow behind, has now become a team composed of all European players and has achieved victories in away games against England at Wembley, leaving Korea far behind.

What needs to be done?

Korean football needs to swallow its pride and learn from Japan's long-term model to improve its system. Currently, the Korean football team is in 3rd place in the league and has earned 3 points. The recent 5-game record is 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss.