Why did South Korea sub off Son Heung-min? Taegeuk Warriors captain leaves game in second half vs. Mexico

For South Korea, Thursday's match against Mexico marked an excellent opportunity to make some early noise at the 2026 World Cup.

Able to clinch the top spot in Group A with a win, South Korea was playing in a tough environment, with Mexico's home fans cheering their team on. But after falling behind 1-0, South Korea lost one of its advantages.

The team's star, Son Heung-min, subbed out around the 57th minute, leaving South Korea turning to other options as it looked to score an equalizer.

Here's the latest on Son after his exit on Thursday.

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Why did South Korea sub off Son Heung-min?

Unless South Korea's head coach, Hong Myung-Bo, provides some further clarification after the match, it's presumed that his star's exit after around 57 minutes was nothing beyond saving the veteran's energy for their third World Cup match.

Son was subbed out shortly after Mexico took a 1-0 lead.

South Korean star Son Heung-Min is subbed off in the 57th minute 🇰🇷 pic.twitter.com/3QdNXbFsk6

Is Son Heung-min injured?

Son isn't known to be dealing with an injury.

While he's had an elite international career for South Korea, scoring 56 goals for the national team since 2010, Son's age is likely the biggest factor in him coming off early vs. Mexico.

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Who came on for Son Heung-min?

Son was replaced by Hwang Hee-Chan on the pitch vs. Mexico. 

Hwang is a forward for the EFL Championship club Wolverhampton Wanderers, with 17 goals in his South Korea international career since 2016.

How old is Son Heung-min?

Son is 33 years old and will turn 34 on July 8, 2026, before the World Cup is over.