Ex-Football Chief, Coach Apologize for World Cup Failure at Parliamentary Hearing

Former Korea Football Association (KFA) president Chung Mong-gyu and former national team coach Hong Myung-bo have apologized for the national team's disappointing performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Both appeared as witnesses at a parliamentary hearing convened by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee in response to widespread public dissatisfaction following the team's elimination from the tournament.

"We are sorry to the public for the North and Central American World Cup results," stated Chung Mong-gyu during his opening remarks. He added, "I sincerely regret that despite my best efforts to develop Korean football during my tenure, the recent controversies and the unsatisfactory World Cup results have occurred. As KFA president, I deeply feel my responsibility and apologize for not meeting the expectations of the public and football fans."

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We are sorry to the public for the North and Central American World Cup results. I sincerely regret that despite my best efforts to develop Korean football during my tenure, the recent controversies and the unsatisfactory World Cup results have occurred. As KFA president, I deeply feel my responsibility and apologize for not meeting the expectations of the public and football fans.

Hong Myung-bo echoed the sentiment, saying, "First, I apologize to the public for not meeting your expectations in the North and Central American World Cup. I take seriously the responsibility for not repaying the support given to the national team. Today, I will speak truthfully about what I know and the responsibilities I must bear."

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First, I apologize to the public for not meeting your expectations in the North and Central American World Cup. I take seriously the responsibility for not repaying the support given to the national team. Today, I will speak truthfully about what I know and the responsibilities I must bear.

He also expressed his gratitude and regret towards the players, stating, "I want to convey my apologies and thanks to the players who competed until the end despite difficult circumstances. I deeply regret not being able to repay their efforts with results."

The hearing is intended to scrutinize the KFA's overall management, including the controversial appointment process of Hong Myung-bo and allegations of opaque decision-making within the association. The committee seeks to address public concerns and review the operational aspects of Korean football governance.

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I want to convey my apologies and thanks to the players who competed until the end despite difficult circumstances. I deeply regret not being able to repay their efforts with results.