South Korea’s under-20 soccer team has lost to France in the group stage of the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

France's Gilles Sunu gave the French a 1-0 lead in the 27th minute, but a goal by Kim Young-uk early in the second half leveled the field at 1-1.

However, the South Korean team led by Coach Lee Gwang-jong could not close the match. Goals from Gueida Fofana and Alexandre Lacazetteo late in the second half led to a 3-1 French victory.

South Korea now stands at one win, one loss in Group A. It will play its third match with host country Colombia on Saturday. A draw may see South Korea advance to the knockout round, but a win will guarantee it.