Vying for position with two of Europe's best forwards of recent years, Alen Boksic and Davor Suker, has limited Vlaovic's opportunities at the highest level.
He has still managed 50-odd caps for his country, averaging a goal every three games.
The 29-year-old also has plenty of big tournament experience having been capped by Croatia at both Euro 96 and the 1998 World Cup.
His club CV has seen him play in Italy's Serie A, where he scored 18 goals in 56 appearances for Padova, in the Spanish Primera Liga for Valencia and most recently for Greek side Panathinaikos.
His impact Korea and Japan will be decided by the form and fitness of both Boksic and Suker once more.