South Korea overpowered Denmark 3-2 in a thrilling encounter on Wednesday to emerge as the biggest threat to reigning champion China at the Sudirman Cup.
In another major tie, a depleted Indonesia — missing many top players —defeated Malaysia 3-2 to secure top spot in its group.
The Koreans take on Malaysia in the quarterfinals, while host and champion China faces India. The other ties see the Danes playing Taiwan and Japan facing Indonesia.
The quarterfinals are on Thursday and Friday.
The results: Indonesia 3 bt Malaysia 2; Denmark 2 lost to South Korea 3.