Jens Castrop is set to begin a new chapter in his international career, pledging his future to South Korea after previously representing Germany at youth level.
The 22-year-old midfielder, born in Düsseldorf to a German father and Korean mother, received his first senior call-up on Monday from head coach Hong Myung-bo for upcoming friendlies against the United States and Mexico next month.
Castrop’s selection is historic—he becomes the first foreign-born, mixed-race player to represent the South Korean men’s national team.
“Although Castrop is still young, he has shown steady development in the Bundesliga,” Hong said, as quoted from Associated Press, “Most importantly, I value his determination and sense of responsibility in committing to our national team. I hope he adapts quickly and brings fresh energy to the squad.”
Hong highlighted Castrop’s combative and physical style as a key attribute he expects will strengthen South Korea’s midfield.
The call-up comes just a day after Castrop made his Bundesliga debut, appearing as a substitute for Borussia Mönchengladbach in a 0-0 draw with Hamburg.
Questions remain over whether Castrop, a dual citizen, will be subject to South Korea’s mandatory military service. Domestic reports suggest the matter has not yet been formally addressed by the Korean Football Association (KFA) or government.
While unprecedented in the men’s game, Castrop’s case follows a similar milestone in women’s football: in 2023, teenager Casey Phair—born in the U.S. to a Korean mother and American father—was called up to the national team at just 16.
South Korea’s friendlies against the U.S. on September 6 in New Jersey and Mexico on September 9 in Tennessee form part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The squad also features captain Son Heung-min, who recently joined Los Angeles FC after a decade-long spell in the English Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur.