Fans jeer South Korean coach Hong Myung-bo upon World Cup qualifier exit

Fans greeted the South Korean national football team with jeers and criticism upon their return to Incheon International Airport early on June 30, following their elimination from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Unlike the usual welcoming cheers, supporters voiced their anger, with chants of "Hong Myung-bo out" and demands for him to return his salary.

“

Hong Myung-bo out

The team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, had aimed for a historic quarter-final appearance in the tournament. Despite being in a seemingly manageable group with Czech Republic, Mexico, and South Africa, they suffered losses to Mexico and South Africa, with only a single win against the Czech Republic. Their failure to advance to the Round of 32, despite needing only a draw against South Africa, led to the strong negative reaction from fans.

“

Return your salary and leave

While the players, including Cho Hyun-woo, Kim Min-jae, Hwang In-beom, Baek Seung-ho, and Lee Kang-in, received some words of encouragement, the focus of the fans' frustration was squarely on the coaching staff. This marks a departure from previous homecomings, where even in times of disappointment, official events were held. This time, the Korea Football Association had announced no separate welcoming ceremony, a decision not seen since the 2002 World Cup for away tournaments. The disappointment was palpable, with one fan throwing a dog chew toy at Korea Football Association President Chung Mong-gyu upon his later arrival.

“

Players, fighting!

Coach Hong Myung-bo acknowledged his responsibility for the team's performance, stating, "The responsibility lies entirely with me as the coach," before stepping down. The team's inability to meet expectations, coupled with the perceived lack of strategic success, has left a bitter taste for supporters eager for international success.

“

The responsibility lies entirely with me as the coach.