Updated

South Korea named Choi Kang-hee as its new coach on Wednesday despite the fact that Choi initially turned down the offer.

Choi replaces Cho Kwang-rae, who was sacked earlier this month following a 2-1 defeat to Lebanon.

After leading K-League side Jeonbuk Motors to the league title this past season, Choi will now be charged with helping South Korea qualify for the 2014 World Cup.

His first test will come February 29 in a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait, with South Korea needing a point to advance to the final round of qualification.