Chinese FA Investigation Results

On 23rd, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced via its official social media that its independent investigation into allegations of improper hospitality involving the Korean Football Association (KFA) found no evidence. The investigation team was formed on 19th after reports that three Chinese officials, including a referee department head, had received hospitality at a massage clinic during a 2012 January visit to Korea. The CFA concluded that there was no verifiable evidence that the Korean side had offered improper hospitality.

The CFA did not disclose specific targets or procedures and stated it would continue to monitor the situation and conduct a new investigation if new facts or clues emerged.

2016 Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism Audit and KFA Allegations

In 2016, an audit by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism revealed that the KFA had provided sexual hospitality to about ten foreign referees during seven international matches in 2011-2012, including World Cup and Olympic qualifiers. The ministry had requested a police investigation three months before the statute of limitations expired, but the investigation was delayed. Consequently, the charge of “facilitating prostitution” expired, and the case was downgraded to a non-prosecution opinion on “embezzlement in official duties.”

Japan FA Investigation Results

The Japan Football Association (JFA) investigated seven Japanese referees who visited Korea between March 2011 and March 2012. Using an external law firm, the JFA conducted face-to-face and written inquiries. The result was that there was no evidence the referees received any improper hospitality or match‑fixing requests from the KFA. The JFA also stated it had received no cooperation requests or reports from Korean authorities and has no plans for further investigation.

Future Outlook

Both the CFA and JFA have announced that they have not found evidence of Korean officials’ involvement. They stated they would conduct a new investigation if new facts appear. The Korean FA has not yet initiated a separate investigation and will take further action if necessary.

Key Points

  • CFA announced on 23rd that no evidence was found.
  • JFA concluded the investigation on seven referees was baseless.
  • 2016 audit uncovered KFA’s sexual hospitality to ten referees.
  • Statute of limitations issue led to only an embezzlement charge.
  • Both associations will investigate again if new facts emerge.