South Korea manager Hong Myung-Bo has reportedly resigned from his position days after the team's elimination from the World Cup.
The decision follows a disappointing performance in the tournament, where the team finished third in Group A with one win and two losses. Their 1-0 defeat to South Africa in the final group match prompted significant backlash from fans, who launched a petition demanding his sacking.
The team's performance also drew sharp criticism from South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. He expressed profound disappointment and bafflement over the results, stating on X, "I offer my deepest apologies to the public for the profound disappointment caused by this unacceptable outcome." The president called for a thorough investigation into the team's exit and for reforms in sports administration to prevent similar occurrences.
Fans and critics have questioned Hong's management, citing puzzling selection decisions and in-game tactics. The decision to substitute center-back Kim Min-jae during a crucial match against South Africa, replacing him with another defender instead of an attacker, was particularly scrutinized.
Hong's appointment in 2024 was itself controversial. An administrative court found that the Korea Football Association president, Chung Mong-gyu, had bypassed proper procedures when hiring both Hong and his predecessor, Jurgen Klinsmann. The fan petition also highlighted concerns about the legitimacy of the selection process and the prioritization of personal gain over public good.
South Korea, ranked higher than Czechia and South Africa in their group, had been expected to advance. Their World Cup campaign included an opening 2-1 victory against Czechia, but losses to Mexico and South Africa ultimately sealed their exit. The team's qualification campaign and pre-tournament friendlies, which included heavy defeats to Brazil and Ivory Coast, had already raised doubts among supporters.
Hong's tenure also faced scrutiny due to his previous management of the South Korean team at the 2014 World Cup, where the team finished winless and at the bottom of their group.
The departure of Hong Myung-Bo marks the end of a turbulent period for South Korean football, with calls for institutional reform and greater accountability within the football association.