South Korea captain Son Heung‑Min greets his fourth World Cup with the same awe he felt as a youngster. He will lead the team against Czechia at Estadio Guadalajara on Thursday, after 144 international appearances.

Backed by a decade of experience, Son says the tournament’s grandeur keeps him in a childlike state of wonder. He recalls the lessons from Qatar, where Korea’s early exits highlighted the need for growth.

The veteran’s 34th birthday looms next month, yet he remains the nation’s linchpin. His 91st‑minute strike in 2022 against Portugal still echoes in Seoul, underscoring his clutch impact.

Coach Hong Myung‑Bo, in his second World Cup stint, hopes the squad will absorb past failures and aim for a group‑stage win. South Korea’s record of three straight first‑match defeats adds pressure to avoid history’s repeat.