After his prospective move to Germany’s top flight fell through, South Korea forward Oh Hyeon-gyu has put the setback behind him and is now fully focused on the national team’s upcoming friendlies in the United States.
The striker, who joined Belgian club KRC Genk last year, was reportedly close to signing with Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart during last month’s transfer window. But talks collapsed after Stuttgart expressed concerns over his medical record.
Speaking to reporters at the national team camp in New York, Oh admitted the negotiations hadn’t gone the way he had hoped.
“I was disappointed because I felt fully prepared, both physically and mentally,” Oh said before training at Icahn Stadium, where South Korea are gearing up for friendlies against the United States on Saturday in New Jersey and Mexico on Tuesday in Tennessee. “But I let go of that frustration as soon as I left Stuttgart for the U.S. It wouldn’t be professional to dwell on it. Life wouldn’t be much fun if everything always went your way.”
The 24-year-old forward launched his European career with Celtic FC in January 2023 before joining Belgian side KRC Genk in July 2024. A move to the Bundesliga — regarded as one of the world’s premier leagues — would have marked a significant step in his development.
“I was excited about the possibility of playing striker in the Bundesliga, but I’m sure Stuttgart had their reasons,” Oh said of the failed transfer.
Responding to reports that concerns over an old knee ligament injury were behind Stuttgart’s hesitation, he clarified: “Since high school, I’ve never had knee pain or missed matches because of it. I’ve been fine throughout my professional career, and I’ve already played for Celtic and Genk.”
Oh scored 12 goals across 41 matches in all competitions last season and has already netted twice in six appearances this term. He is one of several attackers competing for a place in South Korea’s World Cup squad for next summer’s tournament in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, where he hopes to catch the eye of more clubs on the global stage.
“Instead of holding any grudges against Stuttgart, I’ll just keep working hard and prove my value in the market,” Oh said. “If I reach a level where any club would want me, then there won’t be an issue.”
He added that rejoining the national team has lifted his spirits: “I’m really happy to be here wearing the national team badge.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming matches, Oh said, “I’m excited for the games against the U.S. and Mexico. Fans in Korea and around the world will be watching. I’m ready, and I’ll let my goals speak for themselves.”