The Scandinavians, who have lost every game, started well and were leading 8-6 after 12 minutes.
But familiar defensive frailties came back to haunt them and the Asians scored seven of the last nine goals in the first half to turn it around to 16-13 in their favour.
And consistent scoring from Republic of Korea meant they were never to surrender that lead, in the end winning by a four-goal margin.
Ryu Eun Hee had a blinder, throwing in 10 goals to take her tally to 31 for the tournament, while Kristina Flognman top-scored with eight for Sweden.
Republic of Korea's opponents in the last eight will be decided over the course of the day as the women's preliminary stages conclude.
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