Korea’s ‘China Syndrome’ Strikes Again: Hong Myung-bo’s Squad Dominates EAFF E-1 Opener

The Opening Clash: Korea vs. China Sets the Stage

Did you know? The Korean national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, kicked off the 2025 EAFF E-1 Football Championship with a powerful 3-0 victory over China at Yongin Mireu Stadium. This match wasn’t just another opener—it was a statement of intent on home soil, with Korea’s dominance over China, often dubbed the ‘China Syndrome,’ once again on full display. The squad, featuring Joo Min-kyu, Lee Dong-kyung, and Moon Seon-min as the attacking spearhead, set the tone early and never looked back.
From the opening whistle, Korea pressed high and dictated the game’s tempo. Lee Dong-kyung’s wonder goal in the 8th minute electrified the crowd, and Joo Min-kyu’s clinical header in the 21st minute doubled the lead, cementing his reputation as one of the oldest but most reliable scorers in national team history. Kim Ju-sung sealed the win in the second half, leaving China with little room to breathe.

The Power of ‘China Syndrome’: A Cultural Phenomenon

‘China Syndrome’ isn’t just a football term—it’s a cultural phenomenon among Korean fans. The phrase refers to Korea’s overwhelming historical dominance against China, with a record now standing at 24 wins, 13 draws, and only 2 losses. For decades, every Korea-China encounter has been charged with national pride and a sense of inevitable victory. Fans on Korean communities like DC Inside and FM Korea often joke that ‘China is Korea’s favorite opponent,’ and this match only reinforced that sentiment.
But it’s not just about the scoreline. The psychological edge, the expectation of victory, and the playful banter online all contribute to a unique rivalry that’s as much about culture as it is about sport.

Hong Myung-bo’s Strategy: Experimentation and Opportunity

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, coach Hong Myung-bo used this tournament as a testing ground. The absence of European-based stars like Son Heung-min opened the door for domestic league talents to shine. Hong’s selection prioritized current form and team chemistry, with a focus on players from the K League 1 who are in peak season rhythm.
Hong’s tactical approach was bold—pressing high, rotating midfielders, and giving new faces a chance to impress. The inclusion of Joo Min-kyu, despite his age, paid off handsomely, while Lee Dong-kyung’s creativity and Moon Seon-min’s explosive pace kept China’s defense on their heels.

Player Spotlight: Joo Min-kyu, Lee Dong-kyung, and Moon Seon-min

Joo Min-kyu, at 35, continues to defy expectations. His goal against China made him the fifth-oldest scorer in Korean national team history, and his physical presence remains a nightmare for defenders. Lee Dong-kyung’s return to the scoresheet after nearly four years was celebrated widely, with fans praising his resilience and technical skill. Moon Seon-min, known for his speed and agility, added width and unpredictability to Korea’s attack, even if he didn’t score on the night.
These players symbolize the blend of experience and hunger that defines Hong’s current squad.

Sudden Changes: Jeon Jin-woo’s Withdrawal and Jung Seung-won’s Debut

Just hours before the match, the team faced a setback as Jeon Jin-woo withdrew due to dizziness and fatigue. The Korean Football Association swiftly called up Jung Seung-won as his replacement. This unexpected change was a hot topic on Naver and Daum blogs, with many fans expressing concern for Jeon’s health but also excitement to see new talent get a chance. Jung’s debut marked a new chapter, highlighting the depth and adaptability of the squad.

Community and Blog Reactions: Fans Speak Out

Korean online communities and blogs buzzed with reactions after the match. On DC Inside, the mood was overwhelmingly positive, with over 80% of posts praising the team’s performance and Hong’s tactical flexibility. Popular comments included, “Korea’s dominance over China is real!” and “Joo Min-kyu proves age is just a number.”
However, some fans on PGR21 and FM Korea expressed concern about the lack of fan turnout at the stadium—only about 4,400 spectators attended, filling less than 12% of the venue. Still, the consensus was that the team’s performance outweighed any disappointment in the stands.

Cultural Insights: Why This Rivalry Matters

For international fans, understanding the Korea-China football rivalry requires more than just looking at the stats. It’s about history, pride, and a shared sense of identity. The ‘China Syndrome’ is a point of humor and pride among Koreans, and every victory reinforces a narrative of regional supremacy. This context adds an extra layer of meaning to every encounter, making these matches must-watch events for both local and global audiences.

Looking Ahead: Korea’s Road to the World Cup

With this victory, Korea has set the tone for the rest of the EAFF E-1 Championship and sent a clear message ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Coach Hong Myung-bo’s willingness to experiment, trust in domestic talent, and ability to maintain Korea’s psychological edge over China all bode well for the team’s future.
The next matches against Hong Kong and Japan will further test the squad’s depth and resolve, but for now, Korean fans can celebrate another chapter in their storied rivalry with China.