South Korea football team’s loss leads coach to apologize in parliament

In the opening group‑stage match of the 2026 World Cup in North America, South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2‑1 at the Estadio de los Alumnos in Guadalajara, Mexico. Korean goalkeeper Kim Sung‑gyu (FC Tokyo) made several spectacular saves that earned praise from the Czech coach.

After subsequent defeats to Mexico and South Africa, South Korea failed to advance from Group A. Former head coach Hong Myung‑bo appeared before the National Assembly on 30 July, apologising to the nation and acknowledging that the team had not met public expectations. Politicians and media criticised the result, with President Lee Jae‑myung commenting on the choice of an incompetent manager.