Football association heads cite animal care, scheduling for hearing absence

Baek Hyun-sik, president of the Busan Football Association, submitted a letter to the National Assembly stating his inability to attend a hearing, citing his volunteer work caring for approximately 200 abandoned animals. The hearing was scheduled for July 24th, and Baek was designated as a reference witness.

Similarly, Park Sung-wan, president of the Chungnam Football Association, also submitted a letter of non-attendance, explaining that he lacked sufficient time to adjust his schedule. Both presidents were added as reference witnesses by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee just six hours prior to the hearing.

Baek Hyun-sik's absence comes after he made controversial remarks in a previous media interview, questioning the actions of Korea Football Association President Chung Mong-gyu and emphasizing his 13 years of effort towards the development of football. His defense of Chung Mong-gyu had already sparked public debate, making his non-attendance at the parliamentary hearing a notable development.