South Korean head coach Hong Myung-bo resigned on Sunday following the national team’s early exit from the World Cup; the Taegeuk Warriors earned only three points in group play, with losses to Mexico and South Africa confirming their elimination. President Lee expressed confusion and bewilderment at the outcome, calling it a failure of organization and personnel.

Coach Resigns Amid Outcry

“We didn’t deliver the results that our fans expected,” Hong said at a news conference in Mexico; he admitted the decision to keep Son Heung-min out of the starting lineup against South Africa was a mistake. After substituting the star player at the beginning of the second half, Hong acknowledged he would not have made the same decision again. “I deeply apologize to the Korean public who supported our team. Today, I am stepping down,” he stated.

The controversy surrounding Hong’s appointment was longstanding. He previously led the team in 2014, where they failed to win a single match. His return in 2024 sparked harsh criticism from fans and former players. The national team’s official fan club, Red Devils, issued a statement calling on Hong to “kneel before the entire nation and leave the football world forever.”

President Calls for Investigation

President Lee highlighted concerns about the selection process of national team leadership. “When favoritism and cronyism take precedence over competence in selecting a commander, the result is as predictable as fire burning paper,” he said in a post. His comments echoed those of former players and fans who called for change. KFA President Chung Mong-gyu, who is in his fourth term, has also faced backlash for attempting to pardon former players banned for life for match-fixing. Chung had previously stated he would step down after the tournament, citing a “lack of virtue” following 13 years in the role.

South Korea’s failure to reach the knockout stage came despite a 2-1 win over Czechia in their opening match. The team lost 1-0 to Mexico and 1-0 to South Africa, the latter of which marked the first time Bafana Bafana advanced to the Round of 32 in their World Cup history. Hong’s decision to keep Son out of the starting lineup against South Africa drew particular criticism. According to Goal.com, the Korean Broadcasting System even blurred Hong’s face during a post-match press conference.

Broader Calls for Reform

The loss has reignited debates about the structure and leadership of South Korean football. Captain Son, who turns 34 next month, has previously hinted at retiring from international football. Former captain Park emphasized the need to break the cycle of failure. “It’s unfortunate that this kind of cycle keeps repeating,” he said. “We must dream of and shape a better future, and move forward step by step so that we don’t repeat these mistakes.”

President Lee called for a government investigation into the team’s early exit. “This is a message to change,” he added. “Everyone should be ready to step down.” Fans and officials alike are now calling for a thorough review of the Korean Football Association’s (KFA) leadership and operations. Chung and Hong may not be the only ones to step down, as the president’s comments suggest a broader reassessment of the national football organization.