South Korea football federation hearing faces mass witness boycott

A National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee hearing on the Korean Football Association (KFA) is set for March 30 to probe the federation’s governance after the national team missed qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The session was intended to question former KFA president Jeong Mong‑gyu, former national team coach Hong Myung‑bo and other senior officials.

However, a wave of non‑attendance notices has raised concerns that the hearing could become a "blank check" exercise. At least eleven of the fifteen slated witnesses and thirteen reference persons, including former vice‑president Park Hang‑seo, former player‑turned‑committee chair Park Ji‑sung, and regional association heads, have cited personal reasons for not appearing. The controversy is amplified by fresh allegations that Hong Myung‑bo misused a corporate credit card during his tenure. Lawmakers warn the absence of key witnesses may prevent a thorough examination of systemic issues such as factionalism, procedural irregularities in coach appointments, and alleged administrative misconduct within the KFA.