Korean Football Association Apologizes Over Allegations of Sexual Services for Referees

The Korean Football Association issued a sincere apology on Saturday following allegations of providing sexual entertainment services to foreign referees. The controversy stems from a 2016 government audit report, which revealed that the association used corporate credit cards to pay for such services at adult establishments in Seoul and other cities between March 2011 and March 2012.

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We feel deep regret for the disappointment and concern caused by various issues and controversy surrounding the association since the 2026 World Cup.

In a statement, the association expressed deep regret for the disappointment and concern caused by various issues surrounding the organization. "We offer our sincere apologies for raising concerns about a range of issues, from a parliamentary hearing and an unprecedented police raid to media reports about incidents dating back more than a decade, which even some members of the association were unaware of," the statement read.

The association vowed to take all criticisms seriously and use them as a catalyst for comprehensive reforms. "Every individual in the association will take the criticisms directed at us from all sides very seriously and use them as an opportunity to carry out comprehensive reforms," it added. Despite the widespread availability of massage parlors offering sexual services in Korea, prostitution remains illegal. International football regulations also prohibit any form of financial compensation to referees.

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We offer our sincere apologies for raising concerns about a range of issues; starting from a parliamentary hearing and an unprecedented police raid, to media reports about incidents dating back more than a decade, which even some members of the association were unaware of.

The Korean Football Association is currently facing significant political pressure. Authorities raided the association's offices on Thursday as part of an investigation into the appointment of former national men's team coach Hong Myung-bo. Police are examining documents to determine if association officials, including former president Chung Mong-gyu, interfered illegally or obstructed the coach selection process.

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Every individual in the association will take the criticisms directed at us from all sides very seriously and use them as an opportunity to carry out comprehensive reforms.