South Korea is making its 9th consecutive appearance on the World Cup main stage. That's the longest active streak for any team out of Asia. It's also a testament to the country's youth system, which focuses on developing players at the grassroots level. CGTN's Shane Hahm reports.

All eyes of the soccer world will be on Russia this summer. But for these young players, this is their World Cup. They range in age from as young as five to 15, and they're members of a local youth clinic. The program is run by top-tier professional club, FC Seoul.

Supporting the players is a well-trained and certified coaching staff. Classes focus on basic skills like dribbling, passing, and shooting. Players who stand out can be scouted and play at a higher level. But the emphasis at this age is to keep the sport fun.

CHUNG IN-HYUCK COACH, FUTURE OF FC SEOUL "Before we start training, we always make sure to keep it fun with recreational activities. We also combine scrimmages at the end of each class so students can apply what they've learned in a game-time situation."

SHANE HAHM SEOUL "South Korea's big entry onto the world stage was in 2002 when it reached the World Cup semifinals. That's the furthest any team from Asia has advanced in the tournament. In fact, South Korea has played in every World Cup since 1986. It's a testament to the team's consistency and ability to nurture young talent. This year, much of the team's success will be riding on the shoulders of talented striker Son Heung-min."

Son also passed through the FC Seoul youth academy in his early years. The 26-year-old is coming off his best season yet in England. There's pressure on the Tottenham forward to do well on a national team looking for its next breakout star. But there are concerns nagging injuries may limit his performance.

SON HEUNG-MIN SOUTH KOREA FORWARD "My recovering physical condition is quite important. If I don't feel good, I can get treatment, so there's not much to worry about that. I can clearly promise that I will prepare myself to make my body 100 percent or 120 percent by the World Cup, so I hope you will not worry too much."

South Koreans will take to the streets to cheer on their beloved team in Russia. And maybe somewhere down the line, fans will be cheering on these future national team players.