Hong Myung-bo returns to South Korea ahead of National Assembly football hearing

Former South Korean national team coach Hong Myung‑bo flew back from Los Angeles to Seoul to prepare for testimony before the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee. The hearing, set for June 30, will examine the Korean Football Association’s handling of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign after the team failed to reach the knockout stage.

Hong had left Korea in early July following the disappointing qualifying run and faced criticism over the team’s 1‑2 record. He explained his departure as a response to safety concerns for his family. While preparing to appear as a witness, former player Kim Young‑gwang used a radio program to publicly attack Hong, blaming the coach’s “stubbornness” for midfielder Lee Seung‑woo’s omission from the final squad and calling for Hong’s removal. The hearing will also summon former KFA head Jeong Mong‑kyu and eight additional officials as witnesses.

The episode highlights ongoing debate over leadership and accountability within South Korean football.