Na Sang-ho Returns After Two Years: Korea’s EAFF E-1 Championship Squad Unveiled with Seven New Faces

Introduction: A Summer of East Asian Football Returns to Korea

Did you know that the 2025 EAFF E-1 Championship is coming back to Korea this July? Both the men's and women's national teams are gearing up for a tournament that promises not just thrilling matches, but also a showcase of new and returning talent. The Korea Football Association has just released the official squad lists, and the buzz among fans is already electrifying.
With matches set across Yongin, Suwon, and Hwaseong, this championship is more than just a sporting event—it's a celebration of East Asian football culture, rivalry, and unity.

Na Sang-ho’s Comeback and Seven New Faces: A New Era for the Men’s Team

Everyone’s talking about Na Sang-ho’s return to the national team after a two-year absence. A key member of Korea’s 2022 World Cup Round of 16 squad, Na has been making waves in Japan’s J1 League this season and now brings his experience back home. But that’s not all—seven players, including Lee Seung-won and Kim Tae-hyun, are making their senior national team debuts. The squad is mainly composed of K League stars, with a few standout J League players, reflecting the depth and diversity of Korean football talent.
Fans on Naver and Tistory have expressed excitement about these fresh faces, hoping they’ll inject new energy into the team.

Women’s Team: Overseas Stars and Rising Domestic Talents

The women’s squad is equally headline-worthy. Nine overseas-based players, including Ji So-yeon (Seattle Reign FC), Lee Young-ju (Levante Badalona), and Casey Eugene Fair (Angel City FC), join a core of WK League standouts. Defender Koo Chae-hyun, recently named MVP in the domestic league, earns her first senior call-up. The mix of international and local talent signals Korea’s growing competitiveness on the women’s stage.
Bloggers and fans are particularly excited to see how these overseas stars will blend with the domestic squad, with many predicting a dynamic tournament run.

Tournament Structure and Match Schedule: Mark Your Calendars!

From July 7 to 16, fans can catch the men’s matches at Yongin Mireu Stadium and the women’s clashes at Suwon World Cup Stadium and Hwaseong Sports Town. The men’s team kicks off against China, faces Hong Kong, and then Japan in a much-anticipated showdown. The women’s team will battle China, Japan, and Taiwan. With matches spread across three cities, the event is set to draw crowds from all over the country.
Ticket sales details are still pending, but excitement is already building online and offline.

Community Buzz: How Are Fans Reacting?

Korean football communities are alive with discussion. On Naver, 65% of comments are positive, with top remarks celebrating Na Sang-ho’s return and the bold inclusion of new talent. Tistory bloggers echo this sentiment, especially curious about the women’s team’s overseas contingent. Other forums show even higher positivity, with fans expressing cultural pride and hope for a strong performance on home soil.
Of course, there are debates about player choices and tactics, but overall, the mood is optimistic and supportive.

Cultural Insights: Why the EAFF E-1 Championship Matters in Korea

For those new to East Asian football, the EAFF E-1 Championship is more than just a regional tournament. It’s a stage for emerging stars, a battleground for old rivals, and a festival of fandom. Korean supporters are famous for their passionate chants and colorful displays, turning stadiums into cauldrons of energy. The tournament also reflects the globalization of Korean football, with both men’s and women’s teams featuring a blend of domestic and international experience.
This year’s event, hosted in multiple cities, highlights Korea’s commitment to growing the sport and fostering unity across East Asia.

Fandom and Online Culture: The Heartbeat of Korean Football

Did you know that Korean football fandom is among the most vibrant in the world? Online communities like Naver, Daum, DC Inside, FM Korea, and PGR21 are buzzing with analysis, memes, and predictions. Fans scrutinize every squad announcement, debate tactics, and organize support both online and in the stands. The EAFF E-1 Championship is a prime opportunity for these communities to rally behind their teams and celebrate their shared passion.
As the tournament approaches, expect even more creative displays, coordinated chants, and viral moments that capture the unique spirit of Korean football culture.

Looking Ahead: What to Watch for in July

With a mix of seasoned veterans, new faces, and overseas stars, both the men’s and women’s national teams are poised for an exciting run at the 2025 EAFF E-1 Championship. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Korean football, this summer’s tournament promises drama, talent, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for ticket updates, match highlights, and the latest community reactions as Korea aims for regional glory on home turf.