Korea dropped crucial points as they were held to a surprise 2-2 draw by South Africa in the 11th FIH men's hockey World Cup in Monchengladbach, Germany, on Sunday.
The South Africans, twice in arrears, fought back to share honours with Korea, who nearly paid the price for over-confidence, having won both their previous pool B matches.
For Korea, Jong Hyun Jang (21st) and Hyo Sik You (51st) scored while South Africa replied through Lungile Tsolekile (49th) and Wayne Madsen (59th).
Korea thus moved to seven points while the South Africans are on two after three matches.