Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu's outstanding performance at the World Cup 2026 is fueled by a heartfelt message from his wife, Kim Jin-kyung, and the recent birth of their daughter. The 35-year-old missed his daughter Dalbam's arrival in early June, as he was with the national team preparing for the tournament in Mexico. His commitment on the field is a tribute to his family, especially given his absence during such a significant moment.

Before his departure, the couple captured their anticipation in a commemorative photoshoot. A family documentary clip shows the goalkeeper carefully installing a child safety seat in their oto, expressing regret for missing the birth. "Please try to stay in Mexico for a long time; after I give birth and recover quickly, I will fly straight there," Jin-kyung told him, a message that has since become a powerful motivator.

Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu takes a commemorative photo with his pregnant wife before joining the Korean national team for the World Cup 2026. Photo: Molly Darlington

Since his daughter's birth, Kim Seung-gyu has only seen her through video calls. He noted his daughter shares features of both parents. Hours before the opening Group A match against Czech Republic on 12/6, Kim Seung-gyu saw his daughter open her eyes for the first time during a video call. Previously, due to time zone differences, he had only seen her sleeping. "That gave me strength for the match," Kim stated.

On the field at Estadio Guadalajara, Kim Seung-gyu made a series of critical saves in the final stages of the match, helping secure a 2-1 victory for South Korea. This vital contribution underscored his dedication, turning his personal sacrifice into a professional triumph for his team.

Appearing on the SBS television program on 17/6, model Jin-kyung shared the immense pressure she felt while watching her husband's crucial saves. She explained that his new role as a father serves as a powerful motivation for him to protect the goal, viewing each save as a personal gift to his family.

Kim Seung-gyu, goalkeeper for the South Korean men's national football team, speaks at a press conference before a training session for the FIFA World Cup at Chivas Verde Valle in Zapopan, Mexico, on 14/6. Photo: Yonhap

Kim Seung-gyu rose through the Ulsan Hyundai academy and has played for several clubs, including Seongnam IC (South Korea), Vissel Kobe, Kashiwa Reysol (Japan), and Al-Shabab (Saudi Arabia), before joining FC Tokyo in early 2025. This marks his fourth World Cup appearance, having earned 86 caps for the national team since 8/2013.

His path to the 2026 World Cup was challenging, following a knee ligament tear in early 2024. After a dedicated recovery period, he successfully reclaimed his starting position from Jo Hyeon-woo, demonstrating resilience and determination.

Following their victory against Czech Republic, the South Korean national team is scheduled to face Mexico on 19/6 and South Africa on 25/6.

Minh Phuong (Sources: Chosun, Korea Times, Starnewskorea)