On the eve of a high-profile friendly against Brazil at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, South Korea captain Son Heung-min finds himself on the brink of history.
If he steps onto the field on Friday, he will become the nation’s sole record appearance holder, surpassing both former national coach Hong Myung-bo and football legend Cha Bum-kun, each of whom amassed 136 caps for the senior team.
The match, which forms a key part of South Korea’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup, presents a perfect stage for Son to carve his name into the annals of Korean football. For years, he has been tied in record company—with coach Hong and Cha—and now, at age 33, the opportunity looms for him to break free from that tie and stand alone at the top of the caps leaderboard.
Son made his senior international debut in December 2010, and in the years since, has become the linchpin of his country’s attack while assuming the captain’s armband. Over the past 15 years, he has navigated club commitments, long-distance travel, injuries and fierce competition to remain a constant presence in the squad.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has allowed me to play for the country for 15 years,” Son said at a press conference. “I understand the meaning of donning the national flag. I’ve been able to grow both as a person and an athlete. I am thankful for the opportunity to make history while doing something I love.”
Asked what the record would mean to him, Son said, “If I take the field, I want to get the result I want, and I hope it will be the happiest day ever.” He acknowledged the weight of the moment but also emphasized that it is not just about surpassing a number. “The time I spent with the national team is something I’m proud of,” he added.
Coach Hong Myung-bo, whose name Son is about to eclipse in the appearance rankings, was full of praise for his captain’s durability and professionalism. “New people always emerge. If Son Heung-min becomes the player who has played the most matches for Korea, I sincerely congratulate him,” Hong said. “During that time, Son Heung-min has always maintained good condition whenever he came to the national team despite enormous travel and schedules not only in Korea but also in Europe. That is by no means easy.”
Reflecting on the difference between his own record and what Son may achieve, Hong added a wry note: “I believe he will show a good match. I hope Son Heung-min takes away the other records I have.”
Hong also addressed the challenge posed by Brazil, describing it as “a very good opportunity for us to prepare for the World Cup. He’s a strong opponent. I will prepare well so that I can have a good game.” He acknowledged the limited number of friendlies left and stressed that improving competitiveness, even in losses, would be more valuable than mere results. “It’s going to be a difficult and tough game,” he said.
South Korea face a formidable Brazilian side coached by Carlo Ancelotti, boasting world-class talents such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Casemiro, among others. Brazil recently underwent a coaching change, replacing Dorival Junior with Ancelotti, and the match presents a stern test ahead of the global tournament.
The historical gravity is accentuated by the fact that Son would break a shared record held by two pillars of South Korean football. Cha Bum-kun’s legacy stretches back decades, recognized as one of Korea’s all-time great exports.
Hong Myung-bo’s contributions as player and coach are deeply etched into the national program. For Son to eclipse both is not just a statistical milestone but a passing of the torch of Korean football leadership.
Should Son not play against Brazil, he is expected to have another chance in a home friendly against Paraguay on Tuesday, where a commemorative event will be held to mark the milestone. But given his status and fitness, the expectation is that he will start against Brazil and don the captain’s armband in what could be a defining moment of his international career.
South Korea’s broader preparation for the 2026 World Cup hinges in part on how they respond to such high-level opposition.
For Son, this record appearance may well be a prelude to a final World Cup campaign—one that he and the nation hope will yield both personal and collective glory. “I still get excited every time I wear the Taegeuk mark. That feeling has never changed,” he said. “The national team is always a special stage for me. I will do my best to make the happiest day.”