As the FIFA World Cup has expanded over the decades, nations representing the Asian Football Confederation have transformed from underdogs into teams capable of challenging the sport's traditional powers. From South Korea's historic run in 2002 to Japan's consistent knockout appearances, Asian teams have steadily elevated the continent's profile on soccer's biggest stage. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, many fans are asking: What's the furthest an Asian team has ever gone? South Korea set the record in 2002 The deepest World Cup run by an Asian nation belongs to South Korea. Co-hosting the tournament with Japan in 2002, the Taeguk Warriors made history by becoming the first Asian team to reach the semifinals . Under manager Guus Hiddink, South Korea defeated Portugal in the group stage before eliminating Italy and Spain in the knockout rounds.…