Lee Dong-gyeong’s Wonder Strike and Joo Min-kyu’s Veteran Finish: How Hong Myung-bo’s Korea Outplayed China in the EAFF E-1 Opener

A Hot Night in Yongin: The Stage is Set

Did you know that the 2025 EAFF E-1 Championship kicked off with a bang at Yongin Mireu Stadium? On July 7th, South Korea’s national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, faced China in a match that promised drama and delivered even more. With the stands buzzing and the summer heat in full swing, Korean fans were hungry for a strong start, especially after the heartbreak of the last tournament. The absence of Europe-based stars meant this was a showcase for K League talent, and the players seized their moment on home soil.
From the opening whistle, Korea pressed high and dictated the tempo, showing confidence and tactical discipline. The 3-4-3 formation, a departure from Hong’s usual setup, allowed for aggressive wing play and fluid movement—something that would soon pay off in spectacular fashion.

Lee Dong-gyeong’s Magic Moment: Breaking the Deadlock

Everyone, did you catch Lee Dong-gyeong’s goal? In just the 8th minute, Lee, wearing the iconic number 10, found space outside the Chinese penalty area. After a slick pass from Kim Moon-hwan, Lee curled a left-footed shot that soared past the keeper and into the net—a goal that electrified the crowd and set the tone for the night. This was Lee’s first international goal in nearly four years, and it came at a crucial time, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the most creative midfielders in the K League.
Lee later shared in interviews that the pressure was immense, but the support from teammates and fans pushed him to deliver. His performance wasn’t just about the goal; his movement and vision kept China’s defense on edge throughout the half.

Joo Min-kyu: The Veteran Striker’s Timeless Impact

Let’s talk about Joo Min-kyu—the 35-year-old striker who’s still breaking records. With Jeon Jin-woo sidelined due to illness, all eyes were on Joo, who’s been in red-hot form in the K League. In the 21st minute, he rose above the Chinese defenders to head home a pinpoint cross from Lee Tae-seok, doubling Korea’s lead. This was his third international goal and made him the fifth-oldest scorer in Korean national team history.
Fans and commentators alike marveled at his fitness and poise. Chinese media even highlighted Joo’s performance, noting how he outclassed younger defenders with his positioning and finishing. His leadership on the pitch was evident, guiding younger teammates and constantly communicating with the midfield.

Tactical Brilliance: Hong Myung-bo’s Domestic Revolution

Coach Hong’s decision to rely on domestic players wasn’t just forced by scheduling—it was a calculated move to build squad depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 3-4-3 formation allowed Korea to exploit China’s weaknesses, with wingbacks Lee Tae-seok and Kim Moon-hwan pushing high and stretching the defense. In midfield, Kim Jin-kyu and Kim Bong-soo controlled possession, breaking up Chinese attacks and launching quick counters.
Hong emphasized after the match that every player was fighting for a World Cup spot, and the intensity reflected that. The absence of European stars like Son Heung-min put the spotlight on K League talent, and they delivered with energy and discipline. This approach resonated with fans, who appreciated seeing homegrown players given a chance to shine.

Community and Fan Reactions: The Pulse of Korean Football

If you browsed Naver or Daum after the match, you’d see a wave of positive reactions. On Naver Sports, over 80% of comments praised the team’s organization and Lee Dong-gyeong’s goal, with one top comment reading, “This is the Korea we want to see—fighting spirit and beautiful football!” On DCInside and FM Korea, fans debated tactics and player selections, but the consensus was that Hong Myung-bo’s gamble on domestic players paid off.
Some skepticism remained, particularly about the team’s ability to compete with Japan in the final round, but the mood was overwhelmingly optimistic. Tistory bloggers highlighted the match as a turning point, noting the unity and hunger displayed by the squad. A few critical voices pointed to missed chances in the second half, but even these were tempered by excitement for the next matches.

Cultural Context: Why the EAFF E-1 Matters Beyond the Pitch

For international fans, it’s important to understand that the EAFF E-1 Championship is more than just a regional tournament. It’s a proving ground for domestic talent and a source of national pride. Korean football culture values resilience and teamwork, and this match encapsulated those ideals. The rivalry with China carries historical and sporting significance, adding extra intensity to every encounter.
Many overseas fans might be surprised to learn that the tournament is not held during FIFA’s official international windows, meaning top European-based players often miss out. This gives K League stars a rare chance to shine on the international stage and for fans to discover new heroes. The atmosphere in Yongin was electric, with fans waving flags and chanting, creating a festival-like environment that embodies the passion of Korean football.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Hong Myung-bo’s Squad?

With a 3-0 victory in the books, Korea has set a high bar for the rest of the tournament. Upcoming matches against Hong Kong and Japan will test the squad’s depth and resolve. Coach Hong has made it clear that every spot is up for grabs, and competition within the team is fierce. The ultimate goal? To reclaim the EAFF E-1 title and build momentum for the 2026 World Cup.
Fans are already buzzing about potential lineups and tactical tweaks, with many hoping to see more of Lee Dong-gyeong’s creativity and Joo Min-kyu’s veteran savvy. The sense of unity and excitement is palpable, and if the opening match is any indication, Korean football is in for a thrilling summer.