South Korean coach Hong Myung-bo receives death threat after World Cup exit

South Korea was eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing third in Group K and failing to advance for the first time since 2018. After the team’s loss, coach Hong Myung‑bo was confronted with a death threat at Incheon Airport; police are investigating the anonymous message that warned he would be killed upon arrival in South Korea.

The backlash extended beyond the coach. Hundreds of fans gathered to protest, online harassment surged, and several players—including Lee Kang‑in, Kim Min‑jae and Hwang Hee‑chan—were jeered upon returning home. Public figures linked to the team, such as goalkeeper Kim Seung‑gyu’s wife Kim Jin‑kyung and entertainment personality Jonathan Thona Yiombi, also faced hateful comments and threats.

Amid the turmoil, Hong Myung‑bo resigned on 28 June, and team captain Son Heung‑min issued an apology on social media, urging supporters to back the players rather than attack them.