Paik Seung-ho’s next act: proving himself after Korea’s World Cup heartbreak at Birmingham

South Korea’s midfield engine Paik Seung-ho steps into the most pivotal season of his Birmingham City career after Korea’s FIFA 2026 World Cup exit. The 30-year-old, who returned from Qatar with 1 win, 0 draws, and 2 losses in the group stage, now faces a fresh challenge: fixing his away-form slump to push for the Premier League.

Trust earned, now trust must be repaid

Birmingham Live calls Paik’s current chapter the most critical of his time at St Andrew’s. Since joining from Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in January 2024, he’s logged 114 appearances and powered Birmingham’s EFL League One title and Championship promotion in 2024/25. That earned him PFA Team of the Year honors, but his biggest hurdle remains his road performances. While dominant at home-four goals in league play-he’s struggled on the road, a pattern Birmingham Live described as "passive." Manager Chris Davies still rates him irreplaceable, but Paik must silence doubts with results.

Premier League dream vs. the clock

With two years left on his contract, Paik knows this season is make-or-break. "If I want a Premier League move, I have to step up now," he said. "By next summer I’ll be 30, and few players make their PL debut at that age." Birmingham kick off against Swansea City in the Carabao Cup on August 8, and the club is reportedly fast-tracking his return after his World Cup exit. Birmingham Live expects him back in action within weeks, citing his strong fitness and recent competitive rhythm.

Korea’s hopes ride on his shoulders

Korean fans, still smarting from Korea’s 1-1 draw with Jordan on March 25 that capped a disappointing FIFA 2026 World Cup run, are pinning their hopes on Paik’s rebound. His away-form fix could be the key to stiffer midfield competition for Korea. Birmingham Live urges him to "shed every doubt and prove his true class." All eyes are on Paik to turn this season into a statement-both for Birmingham and for Korean football.

Korea currently sits 3rd in FIFA 2026 with 3 points, six behind leaders Mexico.