Born in Germany to a Korean mother and German father, the 22-year-old midfielder made his Bundesliga debut yesterday as a substitute for Borussia Monchengladbach.

He has consistently played for Germany at youth level, including the Under-21 side, but now looks set to represent South Korea.

Captain Son Heung-min, who recently left Tottenham for Los Angeles FC, was also in coach Hong Myung-bo’s 26-man squad for friendlies against World Cup hosts the US and Mexico next month.

“Although Castrop is young he is a player who has consistently grown, gaining experience in the Bundesliga,” Hong told reporters.

“Above all, I highly value the strong will and sense of responsibility he has shown in his desire to join our national team,” he added.

South Korea will make their 11th consecutive appearance at the World Cup in 2026 in the US, Canada and Mexico.

They play the US on Sept 6 in New Jersey and face Mexico three days later in Nashville.