​South Korea’s manager Hong Myung-bo has resigned in response to the team’s disappointing World Cup group-stage exit, which drew fierce condemnation from the country’s president. After a promising start—overcoming a deficit to defeat the Czech Republic—South Korea then lost to South Africa and Mexico, leaving them unable to qualify for the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams in the expanded tournament. The failure was sealed when DR Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, ending South Korea’s hopes.
At 57, Hong faces intense criticism back home, with President Lee Jae-myung calling him “incapable” and demanding a full review of the national team program. The president, a former honorary chairman of a professional club and a noted supporter, expressed disbelief at the result and warned that prioritizing loyalty or faction over competence leads to predictable failures. He urged the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to take swift action and apologized to the public for the disappointment, promising reforms to prevent repeats of such outcomes.
Public and media sentiment mirrored the president’s harsh stance, with reports showing broadcaster KBS even blurring Hong’s face on air during coverage of the exit. Hong announced his resignation with a formal apology to Korean fans before the team departed from their Mexico base camp, where they had played all three group matches. He told the nation that there is no explanation that can override the result and accepted full responsibility, adding that his commitment to Korean football remains and he would support the national team in restoring public trust and affection.
This marks Hong’s second stint as South Korea’s head coach, having previously led the team at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where they also failed to advance beyond the group stage. South Korea have long been regulars at the World Cup.