The Best Soccer Players From South Korea

Ranker Soccer
Updated January 1, 2024 130.0K views 157 items
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Vote up the best South Korea footballers of all time.

Who are the best football players from South Korea? These are the greatest soccer players born in South Korea or who played on the South Korean national football team. While the South Korea men's national team has a long and storied history of producing top international talent, fans of the Taegeuk Warriors have been waiting for the Tigers of Asia to capture international glory for some time now. So, who are the best footballers from South Korea? Who is the best South Korean soccer player of all time?

Some of the best South Korea soccer players include national legends like Cha Bum-kun, Hwang Sun-hong, Park Chang-sun, Hong Myung-bo and Park Ji-sung. There are also current South Korea football stars such as Son Heung-min, Hwang Hee-chan, and Kim Young-gwon, who are making an impact across the globe. 

Vote up the best soccer players from the South Korea, and help decide who is the greatest South Korean footballer of all time!

Most divisive: Kim Do-Heon
Over 3.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of South Korean Footballers
  • Hwang Ui-Jo
    31

    Hwang Ui-Jo

    Seongnam, Gyeonggi, South Korea
    55 votes

    Hwang Ui-Jo's explosive power and eye for goal have seen him emerge as one of South Korea's most promising forwards. The striker's potent combination of strength, quickness, and aerial prowess has made him a formidable presence on the pitch. As Ui-Jo continues to rise through the ranks, his goal-scoring exploits and burgeoning potential promise to leave a lasting impact on South Korean soccer.

  • Ha Seok-Ju
    32
    Hamyang County, South Korea
    34 votes

    A magisterial presence in the heart of the midfield, Ha Seok-Ju's skillful approach to the game was matched only by his boundless physicality. The box-to-box midfielder was renowned for his tackling prowess, intelligent distribution, and lung-busting runs. Seok-Ju's indomitable spirit, coupled with a never-say-die attitude, helped forge a reputation as one of South Korea's most respected players.

  • Choi In-Young
    33

    Choi In-Young

    South Korea
    6 votes
    Choi In-Young (born 5 March 1962) is a former South Korean football player who played as a goalkeeper. He played mostly for Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i. He participated for South Korea national football team at two editions of FIFA World Cup in 1990 and 1994.
  • Huh Jung-Moo
    34

    Huh Jung-Moo

    Jindo County, South Korea
    33 votes

    As a tireless midfielder with an indomitable spirit, Huh Jung-Moo embodied the grit and determination that has become synonymous with South Korean soccer. The box-to-box dynamo's relentless energy and staunch defensive capabilities made him an invaluable asset to his sides. The lasting legacy of Jung-Moo's tenacious performances will be his unwavering commitment to the cause and his leading role in Korean soccer's rise to prominence.

  • Kim Young-gwon
    35

    Kim Young-gwon

    Jeonju, South Korea
    22 votes

    A linchpin at the heart of the defense, Kim Young-gwon's commanding presence and astute reading of the game have made him an indispensable figure for South Korea. The center-back's combination of aerial prowess, strength, and intelligence has allowed him to thwart opposition attacks with ease. As Young-gwon's career progresses, his solid defensive performances and unwavering dedication will see him remembered among South Korea's greatest defenders.

  • Hwangbo Kwan
    36

    Hwangbo Kwan

    Daegu, South Korea
    22 votes

    An industrious midfielder with an uncanny ability to break up opposition attacks, Hwangbo Kwan was a constant presence in the heart of South Korea's midfield. His tenacious tackling and tireless work rate endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Kwan's steadfast determination and unrelenting drive to succeed left an indelible mark on South Korean soccer and set a high standard for future generations.

  • Hwang In-beom
    37

    Hwang In-beom

    Daejeon, South Korea
    40 votes

    Bursting onto the scene with an exceptional array of skills and creativity, Hwang In-beom has quickly become one of the brightest talents in South Korean soccer. The prodigious playmaker's vision and ability to create goal-scoring opportunities have ignited excitement and hope for the future. As In-beom's career continues to develop, his immense potential and boundless talent promise a glittering future in the sport.

  • Jung Woo-young
    38

    Jung Woo-young

    Ulsan, South Korea
    43 votes

    A combative midfielder with an impressive range of passing, Jung Woo-young has emerged as a fulcrum for both club and country. His tireless work rate, ability to read the game, and commitment to the cause have made him a mainstay in South Korea's midfield. As Woo-young's influence on games continues to grow, he is destined to be remembered among South Korea's greatest soccer talents.

  • Kim Tae-Hwan
    39

    Kim Tae-Hwan

    South Korea
    12 votes

    An industrious fullback with a tenacious work ethic, Kim Tae-Hwan made a name for himself with his solid defending and relentless energy on the pitch. His ability to both thwart opposition attacks and contribute offensively ensured his place as an indispensable cog in South Korea's defensive lineup. Tae-Hwan's commitment and determination have earned him a place among the pantheon of South Korean soccer talents.

  • Lee Keun-Ho
    40
    Incheon, South Korea
    128 votes

    A versatile forward with a penchant for scoring crucial goals, Lee Keun-Ho's quickness and technical ability have made him a handful for defenders. On either wing or through the center, Keun-Ho's impact has been felt across the front line for both club and country. As his career progressed, his exceptional skill and intelligence on the pitch solidified his status as one of South Korea's most dynamic attacking players.

  • Ko Jeong-woon
    41

    Ko Jeong-woon

    Wanju County, South Korea
    20 votes

    A powerful forward with a tireless work rate, Ko Jeong-woon's ability to find the net and create opportunities for his teammates made him a valuable asset for his club and country. His strong aerial presence, intelligent movement, and sheer determination endeared him to fans and cemented his place in South Korean soccer history. Jeong-woon's performances serve as a testament to the importance of hard work and dedication in the pursuit of success.

  • Kim Moon-hwan
    42

    Kim Moon-hwan

    Hwaseong, South Korea
    22 votes

    A dynamic fullback who excels both offensively and defensively, Kim Moon-hwan's marauding runs and pinpoint crosses have made him a constant threat on the right flank. With his tireless work rate and ability to track back, Moon-hwan has quickly established himself as one of South Korea's most promising defenders. As his career progresses, his combination of boundless energy and skill promises to make a lasting impact on South Korean soccer.

  • Kim Jung-Woo
    43
    Seoul, South Korea
    69 votes

    A no-nonsense midfielder whose grit, determination, and tireless work rate exemplified the best of South Korean soccer, Kim Jung-Woo played a central role in the successes of his teams. His combative approach and ability to stifle opposition attacks made him invaluable in the heart of midfield. Jung-Woo's enduring legacy will be his unwavering commitment to the sport and his vital role in South Korea's soccer history.

  • Kim Jin-Su
    44

    Kim Jin-Su

    Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
    35 votes

    An energetic left-back with a penchant for getting forward, Kim Jin-Su has quickly established himself as a key figure in South Korea's defensive lineup. His tireless work rate, combined with his excellent crossing and defensive acumen, make him a constant threat on the flank. As Jin-Su's career continues to progress, his dedicated performances and unwavering commitment make him a standout talent in Korean soccer.

  • Kim Dong-Jin
    45
    Dongducheon, South Korea
    72 votes

    A tenacious and hardworking left-back, Kim Dong-Jin provided solidity and balance to his teams' backlines with his intelligent positioning and defensive acumen. His relentless energy and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses endeared him to fans and coaches alike. Dong-Jin's unwavering commitment to the cause and sound understanding of the game have earned him a place among South Korea's most respected defenders.

  • Kim Seung-Gyu
    46

    Kim Seung-Gyu

    South Korea
    57 votes

    Combining quick reflexes with commanding presence, Kim Seung-Gyu has emerged as a reliable and consistent goalkeeper for both club and country. His ability to marshal his defense and pull off crucial saves when it matters most has earned him respect and admiration from fans and teammates alike. Seung-Gyu's dedication and perseverance have ensured his place among South Korea's top goalkeeping talents.

  • Song Min-kyu
    47

    Song Min-kyu

    South Korea
    9 votes
  • Kwon Chang-hoon
    48

    Kwon Chang-hoon

    Seoul, South Korea
    39 votes

    Blessed with outstanding technical ability and an eye for a killer pass, Kwon Chang-hoon is a creative force in the heart of South Korea's midfield. His vision, quickness of thought, and goal-scoring prowess from midfield have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. As Chang-hoon continues to develop, his abundant talent and unyielding commitment to the game are set to keep him among South Korea's top soccer stars.

  • Hong Chul
    49

    Hong Chul

    Hwaseong, Gyeonggi, South Korea
    47 votes

    A dependable left-back with a tireless work rate, Hong Chul's defensive solidity and exceptional crossing ability have earned him a reputation as a reliable presence on the pitch. His never-say-die attitude, coupled with an innate capacity to forge forward, has made him an important asset for both club and country. Chul's steadfast dedication to the sport and his relentlessness on the field promise to continue inspiring future generations of South Korean soccer players.

  • Choi Sung-Yong
    50
    Masan, South Korea
    55 votes

    An intelligent and composed midfielder, Choi Sung-Yong's calm demeanor and astute reading of the game made him a vital presence for his teams. His exceptional passing range and keen awareness ensured that he was always at the heart of his sides' attacking play. Sung-Yong's unwavering dedication and consistency have secured his place among South Korea's most highly-regarded soccer talents.

  • Paik Seung-ho
    51

    Paik Seung-ho

    Seoul, South Korea
    21 votes
  • Oh Beom-Seok
    52

    Oh Beom-Seok

    Pohang, South Korea
    62 votes

    A tenacious and versatile defender, Oh Beom-Seok's uncompromising approach to the game and his relentless work rate made him a fan favorite. With his sound positional sense and ability to put in accurate crosses, Beom-Seok rose through the ranks to establish himself as a staple in Korea's defensive lineup. His unwavering commitment and passion for the game will forever be remembered as a hallmark of his career.

  • Kim Jae-Sung
    53

    Kim Jae-Sung

    South Korea
    42 votes

    A versatile midfielder with a strong engine and keen eye for a pass, Kim Jae-Sung was a formidable presence in the center of the park. His tireless work rate, intelligent distribution, and box-to-box prowess made him an invaluable asset to his teams. Jae-Sung's unwavering dedication to his craft and his exceptional understanding of the game ensured his position among South Korea's most respected soccer professionals.

  • Kim Chi-Woo
    54

    Kim Chi-Woo

    Seoul, South Korea
    56 votes

    Known for his precise deliveries and defensive solidity, Kim Chi-Woo was a reliable and consistent left-back for his club and country. His ability to seamlessly transition from defense to attack, coupled with his relentless work rate, made him a valuable asset on the field. Chi-Woo's steadfast commitment and professionalism have solidified his place among South Korea's most respected soccer talents.

  • Kim Shin-wook
    55

    Kim Shin-wook

    Gwacheon, South Korea
    8 votes
    Kim Shin-wook (Korean: 김신욱; Korean pronunciation: [kim.ɕi.nuk̚]; born 14 April 1988) is a South Korean footballer who plays as a striker for Shanghai Shenhua.
  • Choi Jin-Cheul
    56

    Choi Jin-Cheul

    Jindo County, South Korea
    8 votes
    Choi Jin-Cheul (born March 26, 1971) is a South Korean football player, who played for the K-League team Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. Choi made 65 appearances for the South Korea national football team. He usually played as centre-back and made a very strong team with Hong Myung-Bo and Kim Tae-Young during the 2002 FIFA World Cup. As the oldest player of the Korean Nation Team for World Cup 2006, Choi has been an influential and strongly reliable defender throughout his World Cup career (2002, 2006). Before the World Cup, he had already announced his retirement from the national team after the tournament.
  • Choi Tae-Uk
    57
    Incheon, South Korea
    8 votes
    Choi Tae-Uk (Korean: 최태욱; Hanja: 崔兌旭; born 13 March 1981) is a retired South Korean football international player. He made his debut in the 2000 K League season.
  • Na Sang-ho
    58

    Na Sang-ho

    Damyang, South Korea
    8 votes
  • Chung Yong-Hwan
    59

    Chung Yong-Hwan

    South Korea
    8 votes
    Chung Yong-Hwan (Hangul: 정용환, born February 10, 1960) was South Korean football player and manager. He played only one club that in K-League side Daewoo Royals in South Korea. He was a member of South Korea U-20 and parted in 1979 FIFA World Youth Championship. And Chung was a member of South Korea. He parted many international tournament such as 1986 FIFA World Cup, 1990 FIFA World Cup, 1984 AFC Asian Cup, 1988 AFC Asian Cup and so on. In club level, he won some of trophy in South Korea and international club tournaments.
  • Nam Tae-hee
    60
    Jinju, South Korea
    8 votes
    Nam Tae-hee (Hangul: 남태희; Hanja: 南泰熙; Korean pronunciation: [nam.tʰɛ̝.ɦi]; born 3 July 1991 in Busan) is a South Korean footballer currently playing for Qatari side Al-Sadd. He is a versatile midfielder and can play as attacking midfielder or central midfielder. He is known for his honed technique, smooth movement, and dribbling.