Match Result
On June 25, 2026, in the final group match of the FIFA North America Group A, South Korea lost 0-1 to South Africa at the Monterrey Stadium in Mexico. The result left South Korea with 1 win and 2 losses, finishing third in Group A and failing to qualify for the 32-team knockout stage. South Korea was 1 point behind South Africa in the match, and after reviewing the other groups, the possibility of qualifying for the 32-team stage remains.
Lee Kang-in’s Apology
Immediately after the match, 25-year-old Atletico Madrid player Lee Kang-in expressed a sense of responsibility for Korean football and apologized. He said, “The situation for Korean football is not good. Players are thinking a lot and reflecting because they want to bring joy to many football fans in this situation. We will do our best to show a better performance in the future.” Lee added, “I hope you continue to give us a lot of attention and love. Not only I but also overseas players and K-League players are doing their best for the real Korea. We always work hard. Please don’t only look at the bad parts; see the good parts as well.”
Lee had his debut for Atletico Madrid in a friendly against Manchester City on June 9, 2026 at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, where the team lost 1-3. He was substituted in at the 18th minute of the second half and delivered an explosive shooting and dazzling dribbling performance, marking a historic debut.
Situation of Korean Football
Lee’s apology coincides with the many difficulties Korean football is facing. The World Cup group-stage exit, a hearing disaster, the resignations of President Jeong Mong-gyu and Coach Hong Myung-bo, and a foreign referee hospitality scandal have all contributed to an international embarrassment for Korean football. The hearing revealed that the Korean Football Association misused public funds, and Jeong Mong-gyu has been avoiding all responsibility since resigning. Lee criticized the adults who still cannot cut out the rotten parts of Korean football, saying, “Adults still cannot cut out the rotten parts of Korean football.” He concluded by urging fans to see the good side of Korean football, “Please also look at the good parts.”
