Soccer is no longer a game created solely by the coach. A strong team emerges when players' creativity, data, communication, and trust come together. No matter how brilliant the tactics, if players cannot express themselves freely, there will be clear limitations on the world stage. If Korean soccer has recently fallen short of expectations, the reasons should not be solely attributed to individual player skills but should also include team management and leadership.
Korean soccer is not lacking in talent. Numerous players are proving their competitiveness in top European leagues and Japan's professional soccer. In terms of individual ability, the country has more resources than ever before. However, simply gathering outstanding players does not guarantee a strong team. The national team is not just a collection of players; it is an organization, and the success of that organization ultimately hinges on leadership.
Hong Myung-bo, a legendary defender representing Korean soccer, understands the weight of the national team better than anyone. His sense of responsibility and dedication during his playing days continue to inspire many younger players. However, being a great player does not automatically translate to being a great coach. A leader must do more than teach tactics; they must draw out the players' potential. As times change, so too must the methods of leadership.
Today, the competitiveness of world soccer arises from communication rather than command. The era where the coach has all the answers is over. Teams that engage in constant dialogue with players, share data, and distribute authority among staff are the ones that endure.
When players trust their coach rather than fear them, they are more likely to take bold actions on the field.
Thus, Korean soccer needs a new formula. This principle is encapsulated in the term 'Byeonjeoktong' (변적통), meaning that change opens the path. When change occurs, communication follows, and when communication happens, the team thrives. In other words, 'Byeontong Soccer'—soccer that communicates—is the direction Korean soccer should take. An organization that does not change becomes stagnant, and a stagnant organization ultimately loses its competitiveness.
I would like to refer to this as 'MJT 3 Dynamic Leadership.' The first element is Mission. Players must feel a sense of pride in being part of the national team. The second is Joy. A positive atmosphere must be created where training is enjoyable and games are anticipated. The third is Trust. When the coach, players, and coaching staff trust each other, the organization becomes strongest. When mission, joy, and trust coexist, players can maximize their abilities.
Looking at the great coaches leading world soccer, a commonality emerges: they empower players with responsibility and create an environment where failure is not feared. Freedom comes with responsibility, but players entrusted with responsibility grow even more. When coaches allow players' autonomy and creativity to flourish rather than trying to control everything, the overall competitiveness of the team increases.
Hong Myung-bo must also embrace these changes of the times. By maintaining his strengths of principles and responsibility while adding open communication and flexible leadership, he can become an even stronger leader. Change is not about abandoning one's philosophy but rather about evolving it to fit the times.
For Korean soccer to leap back onto the world stage, it cannot rely solely on tactical changes. Culture, organization, and leadership must also evolve. Only when the coach, players, association, and fans look in the same direction can a strong national team be formed.
Ultimately, there is one answer: change is necessary for connection, and connection is necessary for strength. Korean soccer already possesses world-class players. What is now needed is a new leadership that can unify that talent. If Coach Hong takes the lead in opening the door to change, that transformation can invigorate the players and unite the entire national team. This strength could be the most powerful driving force to elevate South Korean soccer back to the top of the world.
Wishing for victory in Korean soccer.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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