Hong Myung-bo: 'No contact with Chung Mong-gyu when appointed coach' - distancing from 'KFA higher-ups' interference' claims

Former South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo has denied any contact with former Korea Football Association (KFA) president Chung Mong-gyu during the process of his appointment as head coach. Hong reportedly made these statements during a police investigation into allegations of embezzlement and external interference in the selection of the national team coach. According to reports, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's financial crime investigation unit questioned Hong on August 4th. During the questioning, Hong maintained that he had no communication with Chung before or after his selection, implying he was unaware of any potential "higher-level" influence. He also stated he had no knowledge of the discussions held by the KFA's technical committee, which is responsible for selecting coaching candidates. When questioned about the circumstances surrounding his high salary, which is linked to embezzlement allegations, Hong reportedly stated that his compensation was similar to what he received during his tenure as coach of Ulsan HD in the professional league. This defense aims to counter claims that his salary was excessively inflated due to improper influence. These statements contrast with claims made by former KFA official Lee Im-saeng. In a lawsuit filed with the Seoul High Court concerning a dispute between the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the KFA, Lee alleged that he met with three coaching candidates, including Hong, under the direction of former president Chung Mong-gyu. The police are now focusing on analyzing evidence to determine the specifics of Hong's appointment in 2024 and verify the conflicting testimonies. In connection with the investigation, police recently searched the KFA offices in Cheonan and Seoul, seizing relevant documents related to the coaching selection. Chung Mong-gyu is expected to be summoned for questioning after the analysis of the seized materials is complete.