South Korea’s participation in the World Cup concluded Saturday with elimination in the group stage, marking a disappointing outcome for the team. The result follows a challenging tournament for the nation, fueling speculation about the future of star captain Son Heung-min. There is a possibility this could be Son’s last appearance in a World Cup, though he has not yet confirmed his retirement. The team faced difficulties throughout the competition, failing to advance beyond the group phase despite expectations. This early exit prompts questions about the program’s direction and potential changes within the national team. Further analysis will focus on the factors contributing to South Korea’s underperformance and Son’s potential decision regarding his international career.