The striker then headed into the path of Koo Ja-cheol following a cross by Cha Du-ri, and his forward partner doubled the lead.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

South Korea, victors the first two times the tournament was held in 1956 and 1960, took the lead in the 24th minute at Doha's Al Gharafa Stadium through Koo Ja-cheol.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

South Korea enjoyed the best of the second half and went close when Koo Ja-cheol hit the side-netting with a low shot before Lee Yong-rae's free kick flashed narrowly wide of the target.

CNN: Japan to face Australia in Asian Cup final