South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo resigns amid death threats and police escort after World Cup exit

South Korea’s national team failed to progress beyond the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing third in Group A with a 2‑1 win over the Czech Republic and 1‑0 defeats to Mexico and South Africa. President Lee Jae‑Myung publicly denounced the performance, labelled head coach Hong Myung‑bo “incompetent” and ordered a government inquiry into the team’s preparation and the coach’s appointment.

Hong announced his resignation on 28 June, taking responsibility for the early elimination. Within days, he received a death threat posted on an online forum, prompting the police to open a criminal investigation. To prevent violence, South Korean authorities deployed more than 160 police officers and additional security staff at Incheon International Airport on 30 June to escort Hong and a contingent of players back to the country.

When the delegation arrived, hundreds of fans greeted them with boos, chants of “Hong Myung‑bo out!” and banners accusing him of ruining Korean football. Some businesses displayed signs banning his entry, and a television channel blurred his face in coverage. The Korea Football Association cancelled the traditional welcome ceremony, and the president of the KFA was also warned of potential threats. The episode has sparked calls for reforms of the KFA and broader changes to South Korean football administration.