The team's journey to the last 16 was marked by a tense 3-3 draw with Malaysia. This result led South Korea to advance as Group E runners-up.

South Korea's Lee Kang-in and Tottenham Hotspur's Son scored late goals, but Morales leveled the score in the final moments, with Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Hwang Hee-chan coming on as a substitute.

The Asian Cup showcases Southeast Asian football's dynamic landscape, highlighting the challenges faced by teams like South Korea and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the international stage.