Veteran Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu Nears Historic Fourth World Cup Appearance
As the 2026 North American World Cup approaches, South Korean captain Son Heung-min has publicly lauded teammate Kim Seung-gyu, highlighting his crucial role in the national team’s journey. Both Son and Kim are among the select few to achieve four consecutive World Cup selections, a testament to their enduring contributions to Korean football.
A Shared World Cup Journey
Their World Cup careers began together in Brazil in 2014, marking their debut on the global stage. Since then, the pair have been integral to the squad, defending South Korea’s goal in the 2018 Russia and 2022 Qatar World Cups.
Speaking through the official broadcast channel of the Korea Football Association (KFA TV), Son expressed his deep respect for Kim, stating, “We were able to go to the World Cup because of Seung-gyu.” The veteran goalkeeper appeared visibly moved by the captain’s high praise.
Son further emphasized the importance of the goalkeeping trio behind Kim, mentioning Jo Hyeon-woo and Song Bum-keun. “When Seung-gyu was injured, Jo Hyeon-woo was there, and Song Bum-keun as well. Because the goalkeepers protected us from behind, we were able to go to the World Cup,” Son added, giving a thumbs-up to his fellow custodians.
Kim Seung-gyu on the Verge of a Record
With the North American World Cup set to commence on November 12th, Kim Seung-gyu is poised to break new ground in Korean football history. He is on track to become only the second Korean goalkeeper to participate in four World Cups, a feat previously achieved by only one other player.
The legendary Lee Woon-jae, a hero of the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup semi-final run, is the only other Korean goalkeeper to have featured in four World Cups. Currently serving as a goalkeeping coach for the Vietnamese national team, Lee Woon-jae set the benchmark.
If Kim Seung-gyu, who is the likely starting captain for the upcoming tournament, plays in at least two matches, he will rank second among Korean goalkeepers in all-time World Cup appearances.
Climbing the Ranks
Kim Seung-gyu has appeared in three matches across his previous three World Cup participations. He served as a backup in the 2014 and 2018 tournaments, finally earning the starting position in the Qatar World Cup.
Lee Woon-jae played a total of 11 matches, placing him in a tie for fourth in all-time Korean World Cup appearances. Should Kim Seung-gyu play more than two games in the upcoming tournament, he would surpass Choi In-young and Jung Sung-ryong, who are currently tied for second with four appearances each.
No Korean goalkeeper, other than Lee Woon-jae, has started in more than two World Cup tournaments. Kim Seung-gyu is now on a path to achieve this significant milestone.
Overcoming Adversity
Kim Seung-gyu’s journey has not been without its challenges. During his time playing in Saudi Arabia for Al-Shabab, he suffered two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, injuries that threatened to end his career. He has bravely overcome these two major setbacks.
Continuing his strong form from last season, Kim has been a prominent player for FC Tokyo in the J1 League this season, earning his place in the squad for a fourth World Cup. The tournament is being held in Mexico.
