Former United States Men’s National Team manager Jurgen Klinsmann has been appointed head coach of the South Korea national team, the country’s football association confirmed on Monday. Klinsmann replaces Pedro Bento, who resigned following the team’s round of 16 exit to Brazil at the 2022 World Cup.
Klinsmann’s contract with the Korea Football Association (KFA) is valid through the 2026 World Cup, with the German coach expected to lead South Korea to the tournament.
“I know that the Korean national team has been improving and achieving results over a long period of time,” Klinsmann stated after signing his new contract. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of the great coaches who have led the Korean national team, from Gus Hiddink to my predecessor, Paulo Bento.”
After retiring from his playing career, Klinsmann went on to become head coach of the German national team from 2004 until 2006, leading them to a third-placed finish at the 2006 World Cup. He then managed Bayern Munich in the 2008-09 season before being appointed USMNT coach in 2011; a position he held until 2016.
During Klinsman’s tenure, the United States won the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
