South Korea's national soccer team has recorded its worst-ever performance by failing to advance past the group stage in the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, leading coach Hong Myung-bo to announce his resignation. However, online reactions have intensified, fueled by Hong's demeanor during the press conference and speculation about his successor.
In a press conference held in Mexico on June 28, Hong stated he would step down as head coach due to the team's poor World Cup results, saying, "All responsibility lies with me," and offered an apology to the public. The Korea Football Association also confirmed his resignation.
Despite the resignation announcement, Hong's behavior after the press conference has sparked greater controversy. Some videos captured him leaving with his hands in his pockets, prompting criticism that he failed to show genuine remorse to the public until the very end.
One online user expressed, "The anger of the entire nation is sky-high, and if he concludes his apology with a smile and hands in his pockets, the remaining soccer figures will have to bear the backlash." They added, "This brief apology broadcast may have undermined future financial support, infrastructure, and popularity for Korean soccer."
Throughout the World Cup, Hong faced ongoing criticism regarding his tactical decisions, player selections, and overall performance. Earning over 2 billion won in salary, he made comments suggesting that being a national team coach is a position of service, which further alienated fans. Additionally, his smiling demeanor during training after a loss to South Africa led public sentiment to plummet. Currently, online communities and social media are filled with reactions such as "Do not return to Korea" and "The worst coach in national team history."
The controversy has escalated with unverified rumors about the next head coach. Messages purportedly from acquaintances within the national soccer community have circulated online, claiming that a press conference is scheduled for 12:30 PM the following day, where Hong will announce his resignation and prepare for the Asian Cup under Lee Min-sung's system. The poster of the message claimed to have received this information from a friend in the national soccer circle.
However, this message is merely a post circulating online, and there has been no official confirmation from the Korea Football Association regarding the appointment of Lee Min-sung or any system changes.
Despite the mention of Lee Min-sung, fans have reacted coldly. Some have expressed negative evaluations of his tactical and game management skills, while others have recalled his infamous retirement due to a drunk driving incident, voicing concerns that this could lead to further controversy.
The public's anger towards the national team has also manifested in various forms of content. Some fans have even called for the removal of scenes featuring Hong Myung-bo from videos of the South Korean national anthem from the 2002 World Cup.
Additionally, photos have emerged on social media and online communities showing signs stating "No entry for Coach Hong Myung-bo" posted at various businesses.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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