Former South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo faces fan fury upon return

Former South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo returned to Incheon International Airport on Monday, facing a barrage of jeers and insults from angry fans. The reception was a direct response to the team's failure to advance beyond the group stage in the 2026 World Cup.

Fans chanted slogans such as "Hong Myung-bo, get out" and "Return your salary," expressing their deep dissatisfaction with his leadership. Many held banners demanding his departure and criticizing the Korea Football Association. The atmosphere was tense, with police deployed to manage the situation and prevent any potential escalations.

Despite the hostile environment, Hong and some players, including Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Lee Kang-in, made their way through the airport. Hong did not respond to any questions from the press. While some fans directed their anger at the coach, others offered words of encouragement to the players, telling them "Don't bow your heads" and "Lee Kang-in, you worked hard."