South Korea’s Choi Kang-hee Poised to Lead China’s National Team

Meet the Unlikely Candidate

Who would have thought that the man who dominated the K League would one day be in line to manage China’s national squad? Choi Kang-hee made his name with six K League titles and two AFC Champions League crowns with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and later steered Shandong Taishan through several Chinese Super League seasons. Now, after China’s early exit from World Cup qualifying and a brief stint under an interim coach, Choi’s name has shot to the top of the shortlist, sparking fascination across both countries.

It’s a rare turn: a coach considered an icon in Korea could soon face off against his home nation on the international stage.

Voices from the Home Fans

On Naver blogs and Tistory threads, reactions are flying fast and furious. Many Korean supporters cheer the move as a well-deserved honor, highlighting Choi’s deep familiarity with Chinese football from years in Tianjin, Dalian and Shanghai. Others wonder if loyalty to Jeonbuk’s dynasty might conflict with national pride should he lead China against Korea. Meanwhile, Chinese fan forums buzz with cautious optimism, praising his tactical acumen but questioning whether he can rekindle past glory for a team still chasing consistency.

Cultural Crossroads

This potential appointment isn’t just about tactics on the pitch. It speaks to the broader cultural ties between Korean and Chinese football, where coaches and players have long crossed borders. Choi’s fluency in Mandarin and respect for local customs give him an edge over foreign candidates unfamiliar with league traditions. Yet the history of Korean coaches in China has been mixed, reminding everyone that blending styles from two powerhouse football cultures is no easy feat.

What Lies Ahead?

So what happens next? The CFA still has Choi under contract at Shandong for another half-season, and negotiations could stretch into the winter. If he accepts, expect headline-making friendlies—and possibly a World Cup qualifier—against South Korea, setting the stage for a coach-versus-country showdown. Win or lose, Choi Kang-hee’s journey from Jeonbuk legend to China’s national team boss would mark one of the most intriguing chapters in Asian football history.