Korea lost to Brazil 3-0 in the men's football semifinals Tuesday at the London Olympics.

At Old Trafford, Leandro Damaio grabbed a brace after Romulo put Brazil on board late in the first half for the convincing victory.

South Korea will now play Japan for the bronze medal in Cardiff on Friday. Korea, playing in its ninth Olympics, is seeking its first football medal. Brazil and Mexico will clash for the gold at Wembley on Saturday.

South Korea had a few early chances. Forward Kim Hyun-sung's header was cleared near the goal line by the defense. Ji Dong-won took a foot to the head when he collided with defender Juan Jesus trying to head in a loose ball at close range, but no penalty was called on the play.

Brazil turned the tide in the 22nd minute, when Leandro, off a rebound from Sandro's shot, rolled the ball past the far post from a tough angle.

Then in the 37th, Romulo scored on a soft roller that went through the legs of Korean goalkeeper Lee Bum-young. After stealing the ball in midfield, Oscar drove toward the top of the arc and flicked the pass to the charging Romulo.

Brazil remained in control in the second half, its wingers dancing through the Korean zone with ease and repeatedly finding open men deep in the opposing zone.

Leandro got his first goal in the 56th, converting a Neymar cross from near the penalty spot. Marcelo fanned on the cross before the ball landed on Leandro's feet.

Seven minutes later, Oscar threaded a pass to Leandro at the top of the box, and the Brazilian forward found enough space among three Korean defenders for his second score.

With Korea seeking consolation, Ki Sung-yueng sent a free kick above the crossbar in the 78th minute for the country's last serious opportunity. (LONDON=Yonhap)