Former national soccer coach Guus Hiddink is optimistic over South Korea's prospects in the World Cup in June.

In the latest issue of World Soccer magazine, Hiddink said the physical strength and tenacity of South Korean players are "absolutely amazing," recounting his experience as coach in the 2002 World Cup.

He said South Korea under coach Dick Advocaat will again achieve excellent results in Germany since players have greatly improved in both strategy and physical strength.

Hiddink will lead Australia in the World Cup and then take over Russia afterwards.