Kim Min-jae Suffers Calf Injury

Kim Min-jae, South Korea's defensive leader, was withdrawn with a calf injury in the 20th minute of the second half against South Africa on June 25.

He started as a starter in the final Group A match of the 2026 North America-Central America World Cup, taking the captain's armband.

Kim Min-jae was replaced by Park Jin-seob due to the injury.

South Korea World Cup team head coach Hong Myung-bo explained that the substitution was due to the calf injury.

Kim Min-jae stated that his calf was a bit uncomfortable, but it's not serious.

A source from the Korea Football Association said that even if tests are conducted, they have to wait until they return to Guadalajara to proceed.

South Korea finished third in Group A and now aims for the 'third-place wildcard'.

The problem is Kim Min-jae's physical condition, as they might have to play without their 'defensive core' if they advance to the Round of 32.

Kim Min-jae has been leading players like Lee Gi-hyuk and Lee Han-beom, solidifying South Korea's defensive wall.

He enjoys unlimited trust within the team.

Hwang In-beom, who serves as the 'midfield backbone' alongside Kim, complained of leg discomfort during the match.

Kim Min-jae confessed that they were in a situation where even a draw would have allowed them to advance, but he has no words to apologize for the loss.

He said that the gaps between their players were wide, and they faced difficulties in man-to-man situations.

Kim Min-jae has not yet given up hope of advancing to the tournament.

He said that they talked about how 'we might play more matches, or we might not, but let's only regret today'.

South Korea will return to their base camp in Guadalajara, Mexico, to continue their journey.

Kim Min-jae needs no introduction, as he has been a key player for South Korea.

On June 25, South Korea lost 0-1 to South Africa, and Kim Min-jae's injury added to their concerns.

The team's performance was affected by the injury, and they struggled to overturn the match.

Kim Min-jae's absence would be a significant blow to South Korea's chances of advancing.

The team's coach and players are waiting to see how Kim Min-jae's injury develops.

For now, they can only hope that he recovers soon.

The next match will be crucial for South Korea, and Kim Min-jae's presence would be a big boost.

But for now, his injury is a major concern, and the team is waiting to see how it develops