German-born Jens Castrop called up by South Korea for next month's soccer friendlies

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Jens Castrop is determined to make a mark for South Korea in international soccer after representing Germany at youth level.

Castrop, who has a German father and a Korean mother and was born in Dusseldorf, was called up Monday by South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo for games next month against the United States and Mexico.

The 22-year-old midfielder is the first foreign-born, mixed-race player to be selected for South Korea’s national men’s team.

“Although Castrop is young, he is a player who has consistently grown while gaining experience in the Bundesliga,” Hong said. “Above all, I highly value the strong will and sense of responsibility he has shown to join our national team.

“I hope he adapts quickly and brings new vitality to the team.”

Hong said Castro