South Korea's 'Konghanzheng' Strikes Again: Hong Myung-bo’s Squad Dominates China with Joo Min-kyu, Lee Dong-gyeong, and Moon Seon-min Leading the Charge

The Legacy of 'Konghanzheng': Why China Fears South Korea

Did you know? The term 'Konghanzheng' describes the psychological edge South Korea holds over China in football. With a staggering record of 23 wins, 13 draws, and only 2 losses against China, this dominance is more than just numbers—it's a cultural phenomenon. Korean fans see every match against China as a reaffirmation of their footballing pride, while Chinese fans often approach these encounters with a mix of hope and anxiety. This legacy adds a unique tension and excitement to every Korea-China clash, making the EAFF E-1 opener a must-watch event.

Hong Myung-bo: The Architect Behind Korea's New Era

Hong Myung-bo’s appointment as head coach marked a turning point for Korean football. After leading Ulsan HD FC to consecutive league titles, Hong returned to the national team with renewed purpose and tactical acumen. His focus on blending experienced veterans with emerging talent was evident in the squad selection for the EAFF E-1 Championship. Hong’s calm leadership style and emphasis on disciplined, high-press football have reinvigorated the team, as seen in their dominant performance against China. Overseas fans should note that Hong is revered not just for his World Cup heroics as a player, but also for his modern approach to team management.

Joo Min-kyu: The Veteran Striker Defying Age

At 35, Joo Min-kyu continues to defy expectations. His powerful header in the 21st minute against China was a testament to his enduring skill and physicality. Joo’s journey from domestic league stalwart to national team hero is a story of perseverance. He now ranks fifth among Korea’s oldest A-match scorers, proving that age is just a number in football. Korean fans admire his work ethic and humility, often comparing him to European veterans who deliver in crucial moments. International viewers might find his late-career resurgence reminiscent of global icons who peak after 30.

Lee Dong-gyeong and Moon Seon-min: The Dynamic Duo

Lee Dong-gyeong’s stunning left-footed goal in the 8th minute set the tone for Korea’s victory. His creativity and composure under pressure have made him a fan favorite, especially with European-based stars absent. Moon Seon-min, known for his explosive pace and agility, played a crucial role in stretching China’s defense. Both players symbolize the new wave of Korean talent—technically gifted, tactically aware, and fearless on the big stage. Their performances are frequently discussed in Naver and Daum blogs, with fans praising their chemistry and potential to shine in future international tournaments.

Community Buzz: Reactions from Naver, Daum, and DC Inside

The online reaction to Korea’s win was electric. On Naver, over 70% of comments were positive, celebrating the team’s attacking flair and defensive solidity. Daum users highlighted the tactical discipline instilled by Hong Myung-bo, while DC Inside threads buzzed with memes about 'Konghanzheng' and playful jabs at China’s struggles. A representative comment from PGR21 read, 'This is why China can’t break the curse—our players always rise to the occasion.' Negative feedback was minimal, mostly focusing on the low stadium attendance despite the home advantage. The consensus? Pride in the team’s performance and optimism for the rest of the tournament.

Behind the Scenes: Jeon Jin-woo’s Withdrawal and Squad Changes

Not everything went according to plan for Korea. Jeon Jin-woo, a rising star in the K League, had to withdraw due to dizziness, prompting the late inclusion of Jung Seung-won. The coaching staff’s quick response ensured squad stability, but fans expressed concern over Jeon’s health on Tistory blogs. This incident highlighted the unpredictable nature of tournament football and the importance of squad depth. For international fans, it’s a reminder that even powerhouse teams must adapt to sudden changes.

Cultural Insights: Why This Rivalry Matters

The Korea-China football rivalry is about more than just sport. It reflects broader historical and cultural dynamics between the two nations. Korean fans view victories over China as symbolic, reinforcing national pride and resilience. The term 'Konghanzheng' itself has become a meme, used in everything from football forums to pop culture references. For overseas readers, understanding this context adds depth to the spectacle—every goal, save, and tackle carries extra weight in the eyes of Korean supporters.

Tactical Analysis: How Korea Outplayed China

Korea’s 3-0 win was built on aggressive pressing, quick transitions, and intelligent use of width. Hong Myung-bo’s decision to start with Joo Min-kyu, Lee Dong-gyeong, and Moon Seon-min paid off, as their interplay created constant threats. The midfield, anchored by Kim Jin-gyu and Park Jin-seop, controlled possession and disrupted China’s build-up. Defensively, Korea was rock-solid, not allowing a single shot on target. Analysts on Naver and Tistory praised the team’s organization, noting that this level of cohesion bodes well for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Fan Culture: Chants, Memes, and the Stadium Experience

Despite a relatively low turnout at Yongin Mireu Stadium, the atmosphere was lively. Korean fans are known for their creative chants and banners, often referencing 'Konghanzheng' in humorous ways. Social media was flooded with memes celebrating the win, with hashtags like #공한증 and #대한민국 trending on Twitter and Instagram. For international fans, experiencing a Korea-China match is a window into the passionate, sometimes playful, culture of Korean football fandom.

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

With the opening win secured, Korea’s focus shifts to upcoming matches against Hong Kong and Japan. The team’s blend of experience and youth, coupled with Hong’s tactical nous, has raised expectations. Blogs and news outlets speculate about potential line-up changes and strategies for tougher opponents. The consensus among fans and pundits is clear: if Korea maintains this level of performance, another EAFF E-1 title is within reach. Overseas readers should keep an eye on this squad as they build momentum toward the 2026 World Cup.