Former coach Hong Myung-bo returns to South Korea for World Cup hearing

Former South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo has reportedly returned to South Korea last week after a period in the United States. His return comes as he prepares to attend a hearing concerning the team's failure to advance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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I know he returned to prepare for the football association hearing, which was originally scheduled for today but has been postponed to the 30th.

According to sources in the football community on July 22, Hong is currently in South Korea. One official indicated that Hong's return was timed to coincide with a hearing, which was originally scheduled for July 22 but has since been postponed to July 30.

Hong resigned on June 29, the day after the team's elimination from the World Cup group stage. He announced his resignation from Mexico the following day, offering an apology. His departure from South Korea shortly after, heading to Los Angeles, sparked controversy. He later issued a statement on July 9, expressing deep regret for not meeting expectations and causing disappointment and hurt to many.

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I could not repay the expectations and support, and I have disappointed and hurt many people. As a coach, I take that responsibility heavily and apologize deeply once again.

Regarding his trip to the U.S., Hong stated it was not an attempt to avoid the consequences of the team's performance. He mentioned that the decision was influenced by threats and concerns for his and his family's safety at the time.

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It was not a choice to ignore or avoid the results. At the time, it was due to threats against me and my family and concerns for personal safety.