South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo flees to U.S. after threats following World Cup group-stage exit

South Korean national team coach Hong Myung-bo resigned after the squad finished third in Group A of the 2026 World Cup, losing to Mexico and South Africa and failing to advance. Following the elimination, the coach received death threats and intense criticism domestically. President Lee Jae‑Myung publicly blamed the poor performance on alleged favoritism in federation appointments and ordered the Ministry of Sports to open an investigation.

On June 28 Hong announced his resignation and, two days after the team’s return to Seoul, traveled to Los Angeles. Media reports said he used a back‑door exit at the airport to avoid waiting journalists. The flight was confirmed by MBC News. The episode highlighted a stark contrast with neighboring Japan, where fans were reported to greet their players with applause, but the core story centers on Hong’s flight to the United States amid safety concerns.

Hong Myung‑bo issued an apology to South Korean fans, stating he would step down immediately.