Seoul: Jens Castrop, a German-born midfielder with Korean heritage, has been recalled to the South Korean men's national football team for two friendly matches scheduled in October. Head coach Hong Myung-bo selected the 22-year-old Castrop as part of his 26-man squad, as announced on Monday. The Taegeuk Warriors are set to face Brazil on October 10 and Paraguay on October 14, with both games taking place at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Castrop, who plays for Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga, made his debut for South Korea on September 6 in a match against the United States in New Jersey. He subsequently earned his first starting position against Mexico three days later in Tennessee. Castrop's inclusion in the team marks a significant milestone as he became the first foreign-born player of mixed heritage to represent South Korea.

With veteran midfielder Park Yong-woo out due to a knee injury, Castrop seems set to make his first appearance on South Korean soil next month. Meanwhile, team captain Son Heung-min will be joining the national squad following an impressive scoring streak, having netted seven goals in his last four matches for Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC). Son is expected to travel to South Korea after LAFC's upcoming match against Atlanta United.

In addition to Castrop's return, defender Kim Ji-soo has been called up for the first time since the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup in January 2024. Currently on loan to 1. FC Kaiserslautern from Premier League club Brentford, the 20-year-old Kim will be one of 11 defenders selected by coach Hong Myung-bo for the upcoming friendlies.