South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has stepped down following his team’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as President Lee Jae Myung called for an investigation into the country’s failed campaign.
Hong announced his resignation on Sunday, a day after South Korea’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams were officially ended.
The 56-year-old accepted full responsibility for the team’s performance, saying: “The responsibility rests entirely with me as head coach.”
President orders review of campaign
South Korea finished third in Group A after recording one win and two defeats, ending behind Mexico and South Africa.
Their 1-0 loss to South Africa in the final group match left their qualification hopes hanging on results elsewhere, but those hopes disappeared after Saturday’s fixtures.
The disappointing campaign sparked criticism from supporters and prompted President Lee to demand answers.
In a post on X, Lee described the team’s exit as “not just confusion but utter bewilderment at the unexpected outcome.”
He added that the early elimination “appears to be a failure of organisation and personnel.”
“When favouritism and cronyism take precedence over competence in selecting a commander, the result is as predictable as fire burning paper,” the president said.
Hong apologises to supporters
Speaking at a news conference in Mexico, Hong apologised to supporters for failing to meet expectations.
“We didn’t deliver the results that our fans expected,” he said.
“Even though I am leaving the national team, I am not abandoning Korean football altogether. I will cheer for the national team from the bottom of my heart and hope that the team will be trusted and loved by the people once again.”
Hong’s appointment in 2024 had generated controversy, with critics accusing the Korea Football Association of overlooking other candidates.
Reflecting on his decision to accept the role, he said: “Accepting the job was not an easy choice.”
“I cannot say every decision has been the right one, but I can tell you that I have made every decision with Korean football in mind.”
Local media also reported that South Korean police are monitoring security around Hong’s return after an online death threat was made against the former defender, who captained the country to its historic 2002 World Cup semi-final appearance