In a surprising twist at the World Cup 2026, South Korea’s manager Hong Myung-bo has thrown in the towel after their group-stage exit. The announcement comes as fans kick-off; launching a petition calling for his resignation following lacklustre performances against Mexico and South Africa.
The tournament started on a hopeful note for South Korea with a 2-1 win over Czechia, but it quickly went downhill. The team’s inability to clinch a spot among the top third-place qualifiers left fans and even President Lee Jae-myung exasperated and demanding answers.
Hong, who faced heavy criticism and intense public scrutiny, addressed the press candidly, “Though I step away from the national role, my heart stays with Korean football. I hope for renewed trust and love for the team.”
The calls for change were so loud that a petition was created, accusing the Football Association of ignoring proper selection procedures. Despite fielding what was arguably their strongest squad, South Korea only managed a single win. The defeat against South Africa was particularly hard to swallow, being described as one of the worst performances in Korea’s World Cup history.
Hong’s standing took a nosedive, reportedly even affecting his day-to-day life as he’s been turned away from shops and restaurants. President Lee’s statement on social media was a scathing commentary on the leadership choices, hinting at deeper issues within the team’s selection process.
Hong’s departure makes him the fourth manager to leave his post during this year’s World Cup, joining the likes of Scotland’s Steve Clarke and Uruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa, as Tunisia’s Sabri Lamouchi faced the sack. The talent and the hopes were there, but it seems the strategy was not. What’s next for South Korean football? Only time will tell.