"Let's get it done, Hyun-gyu" Oh Hyeon-gyu's diary from four years ago resurfaces after winning goal

[Financial News] Oh Hyeon-gyu, who traveled to the World Cup four years ago as a reserve player without a jersey number, scored the winning goal in South Korea's first match of the tournament. His diary entry from that time, in which he wrote, "I just need to come back wearing a jersey number with confidence," is also drawing renewed attention.
Oh Hyeon-gyu went to Qatar as the youngest member of the national team during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but he was not included in the official roster. He was a reserve player in case Son Heung-min's eye injury recovery took longer than expected. Son eventually played with a protective face mask, and Oh finished the tournament without getting any playing time.
Later, Oh Hyeon-gyu revealed the diary he had written during the Qatar tournament on tvN's "You Quiz on the Block."

The diary said, "Today, all the players wore their uniforms for a group photo. But my uniform had no number on it. To be honest, I felt embarrassed and disappointed." He then steadied himself by writing, "Today, I will harden my resolve even more and prepare for the next four years so I can come back wearing a jersey number with confidence. Let's get it done, Hyun-gyu. It starts now."

Four years later, Oh Hyeon-gyu came on in the second half for Son Heung-min in South Korea's opening Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico.
Although his body temperature had risen to 38 degrees Celsius before the match, he scored the winning goal in the 35th minute of the second half to lead South Korea to a 2-1 comeback victory.
After the match, Oh Hyeon-gyu said, "Just being able to play in the World Cup is deeply moving and something I am grateful for." He added, "The coach gave me a chance, and I scored and helped the team win. As a striker, I feel fortunate and thankful."


hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter