South Korea’s World Cup loss spurs anger over ‘cartel’ of elites, favouritism

South Korea's national football team was eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, leading to significant fan anger upon their return. Head coach Hong Myung-bo announced his resignation on June 28 after the team lost to Mexico and South Africa, failing to advance. Upon arriving at Incheon International Airport, Hong was met with boos and insults, with protest banners declaring "South Korean football is dead." The national supporters' club demanded his permanent departure from football. President Lee Jae Myung expressed bewilderment and ordered an investigation into the team's organization and personnel. Analysts suggest the backlash reflects public disappointment and concerns about meritocracy in leadership appointments.

South Korea's World Cup squad will face heightened police security upon their return to Incheon International Airport on Tuesday, instead of a customary welcome ceremony. This decision stems from public fury over head coach Hong Myung-bo's campaign, which has led to online death threats and calls for significant changes within the country's football establishment. The Korea Football Association confirmed there will be no formal reception, a first for the team after an overseas World Cup. Several prominent players, including Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, Hwang In-beom, and Lee Kang-in, are expected to arrive, while others like Son Heung-min will return separately.

South Korea's early exit from the World Cup group stage has triggered widespread anger and calls for reform. Coach Hong Myung-bo resigned following the team's failure to advance, and President Lee Jae Myung has demanded an investigation into the team's performance, apologizing to the nation for the "incompetent people" responsible. Former players, including Park Ji-sung, have expressed disappointment and called for introspection, questioning the decade of preparation that seemingly yielded no improvement. Fans are also directing their frustration towards the Korea Football Association (KFA) President Chung Mong-gyu, who had previously indicated he would step down. The team's return home is reportedly not being formally welcomed, mirroring past fan discontent.

South Korean football coach Hong Myung-bo has resigned following the national team's elimination from the World Cup. The team missed out on a spot among the eight best third-placed teams. President Lee expressed bewilderment at the outcome, calling it a "failure of organisation and personnel" and suggesting that favoritism may have influenced decisions. Hong acknowledged that not all his decisions were right but stated they were made with Korean football in mind. His reappointment as coach in 2024 had been controversial, with criticism that the football association overlooked more qualified candidates. Hong stated he would continue to support Korean football.