Cha Sanghyun's Women's Volleyball Team Wins AVC Cup... Jumps to 31st in World Rankings

The Korean women's volleyball team has won the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Cup.

Led by head coach Cha Sanghyun, the national team defeated Taiwan 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-22) in the final held at Candon City Arena in the Philippines on June 14, 2026. Korea achieved a perfect record, winning all seven matches, including five group stage games, the semifinals, and the final.

Korean female volleyball players are celebrating on the podium after winning the AVC Cup. Candon, Philippines - Photo by Shin Hwa-yeon, Yonhap News

After the retirement of key players such as Kim Yeon-koung, Korea fell to 40th in the world rankings. While top Asian teams such as China, Japan, and Thailand did not participate in this tournament, the Korean team lifted the AVC Cup trophy. China, Japan, and Thailand did not take part as they were competing in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) organized by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). Last year, Korea failed to remain in the VNL and was pushed to the periphery. Korea's FIVB world ranking, which was 40th prior to the tournament, has now risen to 31st.

Two days earlier, Korea narrowly defeated Taiwan 3-2 in the group stage match that determined first place. In the final, they dominated with relentless attacking. Outside hitter Kang Sohwi, the team's ace, scored 14 points and was the top contributor to the victory. Left-handed opposite spiker Na Hyunsu also supported the team with 12 points. Kang Sohwi was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.