World Cup
Presidential rebuke and World Cup exit push South Korea coach to quit
South Korea’s senior national team lost its head coach, Myung-Bo Hong, after a disappointing World Cup 2026 group stage and a scathing rebuke from President Lee Jae Myung. The dual blow of on‑field failure and political criticism prompted Hong to announce his resignation at a specially convened press conference.
During the press conference Hong said, “Today I step back.” He explained that the role had never been easy, that he always acted in the interest of South Korean football, and that he bears full responsibility for not meeting expectations.
The announcement came after South Korea’s early exit in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, which was hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The team then faced intense scrutiny at home.
President Lee Jae Myung took to X to denounce Hong, writing, “If you value loyalty more than quality and appoint an incompetent leader, the outcome is predictable.” The comment added to the pressure surrounding the coach.
Hong had been appointed head coach in mid‑2024 and oversaw 26 matches before his departure. He also previously led the side between 2013 and 2014.
At the tournament South Korea opened with a victory over the Czech Republic, then suffered defeats to Mexico and South Africa. The side finished third in Group A and missed the eight best third‑placed slots.
The juxtaposition of a brief on‑field resurgence and harsh political censure underscores how performance and national expectations intertwine. The Korean Football Association now faces the task of finding a successor.