Lee Chun-soo: KFA Reform Needs More Than New President or Coach, Key Staff Must Go

Lee Chun-soo, a former South Korean national football player, has asserted that true reform within the Korea Football Association (KFA) necessitates a fundamental overhaul, extending beyond the replacement of its president or head coach. He argues that the association's entrenched operational structure, driven by key individuals, must be dismantled for any significant progress.

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No matter who becomes president, it cannot change unless the organization is broken down.

During a discussion on his YouTube channel, "Rich Chun Soo," Lee stated that no matter who assumes the presidency, the organization will remain stagnant unless its internal structure is challenged. He identified "five people" within the KFA's core operations who, he believes, hold the real power and must be removed for the association to change.

Lee criticized the common practice of changing figureheads like the president or coach, arguing it is insufficient if the long-serving administrative staff remain. He pointed out that even with new leadership, these staff members, who have been with the association for decades, can impede reform by citing "this is how it's always been done." He suggested that upcoming hearings should summon these administrative personnel, not just executives, to understand the practical workings of the association.

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There are five people in my head. The association will change only when those five people leave.

He also expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the recently launched K Football Innovation Committee, suggesting its scope is limited. Lee called for the removal of individuals who have knowingly allowed problems to persist. Regarding the upcoming parliamentary hearing, he anticipates a superficial exchange unless those who actually steered coaching appointments and administrative decisions are questioned. Lee cited the controversy surrounding the appointment of coach Hong Myung-bo, suggesting that administrative staff likely influenced the decision, and these individuals should be held accountable.

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It's meaningless if the people who handled the practical work remain even if the president and coach leave.

Ultimately, Lee stressed that changing the organizational structure is more critical than the presidential election or electoral system reform. He drew a parallel with the K League, where the introduction of younger staff has revitalized the league, and urged the KFA to embrace similar renewal to allow capable young talent to work within the association. He concluded by stating that superficial reforms are inadequate, and a precise "surgery" is needed to address the core issues, warning that failure to act decisively will result in the same problems recurring in four years.

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If administrative staff who have been in the organization for 25 to 30 years say 'this is how it's always been done,' they ultimately cannot change it.