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Hundreds of South Korean fans confronted the national team at Incheon International Airport on Tuesday following its return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. The supporters directed their frustration at head coach Hong Myung-bo, chanting for his immediate resignation as the side crashed out in the group stage. According to Al Jazeera, the protests included banners and symbolic funeral emblems targeting the Korea Football Association. Hong announced his resignation during a news conference in Mexico on Sunday, acknowledging that the team had not met fan expectations.
President Lee Jae-myung voiced his own dismay at the outcome, telling the nation he felt not just confusion but utter bewilderment. The president ordered a thorough investigation into the team’s preparation and performance, a move that underscored the depth of public discontent. AP News reported that Lee criticized both the coach and the broader structure of the national team program.
Hong Myung-bo, a hero as captain during South Korea’s run to the 2002 World Cup semifinals, had returned as coach in July 2024 amid controversy over the appointment process. The BBC reported that many fans viewed his selection as favoritism by football association insiders who overlooked more qualified foreign candidates. His unpopularity grew after tactical decisions, including benching captain Son Heung-min against South Africa, drew sharp media criticism from outlets that labeled the approach unreasonable.
The Taegeuk Warriors opened with a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic but then lost to Mexico and South Africa, finishing third in Group A and failing to advance even as one of the best third-placed teams. ESPN noted that this marked South Korea’s exit with one win and two defeats, repeating their group-stage elimination under Hong from the 2014 tournament. The outlet added that South Korea have participated in more World Cups than any other Asian country and remain the only one to reach the semifinals, achieved in 2002.
The Red Devils, the team’s official fan club, released a statement demanding that Hong kneel before the nation and depart from football entirely. KFA President Chung Mong-gyu, who had already signaled his intention to resign after the tournament citing his lack of virtue, also came under fire during his 13-year tenure. The Guardian reported that around 160 police officers were deployed to prevent any violence during the chaotic homecoming at the airport.
In his resignation statement, Hong expressed hope that the national team would regain public trust and love. Yahoo Sports detailed how some fans and former players questioned the sincerity of his apology given the scale of the disappointment. The federation now faces the presidential investigation that extends to its coaching appointment procedures and overall management of the program.
