South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo sparks nationwide protests after World Cup elimination

South Korea was knocked out of the 2026 World Cup in the group stage after a 2‑1 win over the Czech Republic was followed by 1‑0 defeats to Mexico and South Africa. Coach Hong Myung‑bo was widely blamed for the poor results.

The public reaction turned hostile: large crowds greeted the team at the airport with signs demanding Hong leave the country, many cafés, shops and even a bus displayed notices that he was not allowed entry. Social media amplified the bans, and several local TV channels chose not to show his image.

President Lee Jae Myung called for a formal inquiry into the sport federation, and the sports ministry launched its own investigation. Amid the pressure, Hong announced his resignation, but protests and calls for his ban continued across the nation.