South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo resigns after World Cup exit; president's criticism goes global
South Korea's national football team has returned home after failing to advance from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, with coach Hong Myung-bo resigning from his position. President Lee Jae-myung's harsh criticism of Hong as an 'incompetent leader' has been widely reported by international media, including U.S. outlet PEOPLE. South Korea finished third in their group with 3 points (1W-0D-2L), scoring 2 goals and conceding 3 (-1 goal difference).
Hong's resignation and presidential criticism
Hong Myung-bo announced his resignation during the team's stay in Mexico, stating, "I sincerely apologize to all the fans who supported the national team. The responsibility lies entirely with me." President Lee criticized Hong, saying, "Appointments determine everything. When loyalty and factionalism are prioritized over ability, incompetent people are placed in leadership roles, and the results are predictable." PEOPLE highlighted both the president's remarks and Hong's resignation.
South Korea's World Cup group-stage elimination
South Korea started with a win against Czech Republic but suffered consecutive losses to Mexico and South Africa, failing to advance to the knockout stage. Uzbekistan's loss to Congo also dashed South Korea's hopes. This marks Hong's second consecutive World Cup group-stage exit, following the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
Players return home as team looks ahead
Eight players, including Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, Seol Young-woo, and Lee Kang-in, arrived at Incheon International Airport on June 30. The remaining players, including Son Heung-min, will return separately. South Korea currently trails group leaders Mexico by 6 points and will aim for a comeback under new leadership.
