'Hong Myung-bo entry prohibited'... Convenience store door photo becomes a hot topic

A photograph of a convenience store's entrance displaying a "Hong Myung-bo is prohibited" sign has become a viral sensation online, sparking widespread discussion about the South Korean national football team's performance.

The sign is a pointed criticism directed at the team's coach, Hong Myung-bo, following their inability to secure an automatic spot in the World Cup's round of 32. This failure came after a disappointing 0-1 loss to South Africa, a team ranked considerably lower than South Korea, in their final group stage match.

“

Hong Myung-bo is prohibited

South Korea, currently ranked 24th by FIFA, was defeated by world No. 61 South Africa. This unexpected loss placed the South Korean team in third place in Group A, jeopardizing their progression in the tournament. South Africa, conversely, achieved their first-ever advancement to the round of 32 with this victory.

“

South Korea lost 0-1 to South Africa, ranked significantly lower, in their final group stage match, placing them third in Group A.

The online backlash against Coach Hong has intensified, with many fans expressing their dissatisfaction with the team's performance. The loss to South Africa has put South Korea in a precarious position, requiring them to rely on the results of other matches to determine if they can advance as one of the top eight third-placed teams across all 12 groups.

The criteria for advancing as a third-placed team include points, goal difference, goals scored, and fair play rankings. The current situation has left fans anxious and critical, leading to the viral spread of the "Hong Myung-bo is prohibited" sign as a symbol of their frustration.

“

The online backlash against Coach Hong has intensified.