South Korea Coach Resigns as President Orders Probe into Football Federation After World Cup Exit
Key Developments:
- South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has resigned following the team’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- President Lee Jae Myung has ordered an investigation into the Korea Football Association’s management and decision-making.
- The team’s group-stage elimination has triggered widespread public debate over coaching appointments and football governance.
Seoul (Deccan Herald/BBC) — June 29, 2026: South Korea’s men’s national football team has entered a period of uncertainty after head coach Hong Myung-bo resigned following the country’s group-stage elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while President Lee Jae Myung ordered an official investigation into the national football system.
Hong announced his resignation after South Korea failed to progress to the Round of 32. Although the expanded 48-team World Cup format allowed some third-placed teams to qualify, South Korea missed out after finishing third in Group A with one win and two defeats.
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At a press conference, Hong accepted responsibility for the disappointing campaign.
“The responsibility rests entirely with me as head coach,” Hong Myung-bo said while apologising to supporters.
He also assured fans that his departure would not end his commitment to the country’s football development.
“Even though I am leaving the national team, I am not abandoning Korean football altogether,” Hong stated.
South Korea entered the tournament with expectations of reaching the knockout phase, led by captain Son Heung-min and ranked 32nd in the FIFA rankings. The team defeated Czechia in its opening match but subsequently lost to Mexico and South Africa, ending its campaign earlier than anticipated.
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The disappointing performance prompted a strong response from President Lee Jae Myung, who questioned the management of the national football programme and directed the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to examine the circumstances surrounding the team’s failure.
In a statement shared on social media, Lee said he felt “not just confusion but utter bewilderment” over the result and argued that the outcome “appears to be a failure of organisation and personnel.” He also criticised what he described as favouritism in leadership appointments, calling for reforms to improve transparency and accountability within Korean football administration.
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Hong’s appointment in 2024 had already generated debate among supporters and sections of the South Korean media. Critics questioned the selection process, noting that he returned to the role despite also overseeing the country’s group-stage exit at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Following this year’s elimination, scrutiny of the Korea Football Association has intensified alongside criticism of coaching decisions and overall tournament preparation.
South Korea head coach Hong Myung-Bo resigned less than 24 hours after the nation’s early exit from the 2026 World Cup.
According to South Korean authorities, security measures have also been increased after online threats targeting Hong were reported following his resignation. Police are monitoring potential security risks while investigations continue.
The football federation has yet to announce a successor, while the government-led review is expected to examine the team’s preparation, coaching appointments and administrative processes as South Korea begins planning for future international competitions.
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