League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Coaching

Jens Castrop switches international allegiance from Germany to South Korea

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 10:15 PM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

Jens Castrop switches international allegiance from Germany to South Korea

Summary

Jens Castrop debuted for the South Korean national team in 2025, marking a significant milestone as the first foreign-born player of mixed-race heritage. The 22-year-old midfielder, who plays for Borussia Monchengladbach, previously represented Germany's youth teams. His switch was approved by FIFA in August 2025, as South Korea seeks to enhance its talent pool ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Castrop's decision reflects a growing acceptance of dual nationals in South Korea's football program.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Castrop was born in Dusseldorf, Germany, to a German father and South Korean mother.
•He began his youth career at Fortuna Dusseldorf before moving to Cologne.
•Castrop made his professional debut with FC Nuremberg in 2022.
•His switch to South Korea was approved by FIFA in August 2025.
•He played his first international match against the United States in September 2025.

Latest Updates

10:15 PMYahoo Sports — Who is Jens Castrop? Why midfielder switched allegiance from Germany to South Korea ahead of World Cup

What they're saying

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Jens Castrop became South Korea's first-ever foreign-born senior international of mixed-race heritage when he debuted for the country in 2025.
— Yahoo Sports

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