Chung Mong-gyu referred to prosecutors over KFA manager appointment

South Korean police have referred former Korea Football Association (KFA) President Chung Mong-gyu and two other officials to prosecutors on charges of obstruction of business. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Financial Crime Investigation Unit sent Chung, former Technical Director Lee Lim-saeng, and former Vice Chairman Kim Jung-bae to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office without detention.

The investigation centers on the appointment of former national team manager Hong Myung-bo. Police allege that the officials interfered with the duties of the National Team Strengthening Committee and prepared false documents to mislead the KFA Board of Directors. Specifically, documents reportedly claimed that former committee chairman Chung Hae-sung requested a successor to handle the manager selection process, even though no such request was made. The materials also allegedly falsely suggested that Lee Lim-saeng had the proper authority to lead the selection process.

Chung Mong-gyu has denied the allegations, stating, “There was no reason to deceive the board, and there is even less truth to the claim that we did so.” He expressed deep regret over the police decision and pledged to clarify the truth during the prosecution's investigation.

In contrast, police decided not to refer Hong Myung-bo for prosecution, citing a lack of evidence that he was directly involved in the board's decision-making or the preparation of the documents. Other allegations, including excessive salary payments and defamation, were also dismissed due to insufficient evidence.