Son Heung-min Returns Home to Cheers After World Cup Exit; Contrasts With Coach's Reception

South Korean football captain Son Heung-min returned to Incheon International Airport on July 1, following the national team's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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Son Heung-min fighting

In stark contrast to the previous day's arrival of former coach Hong Myung-bo, which was met with loud jeers from some fans, Son and his teammates were greeted with a wave of supportive cheers and encouraging messages. Fans held banners with messages like 'Captain Son Heung-min, you worked hard' and shouted phrases such as 'You did your best,' 'Fighting,' and 'Don't bow your head.'

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Don't bow your head

Son, along with eight other players including Lee Dong-gyeong, Kim Jin-gyu, and Bae Jun-ho, acknowledged the fans' support. When asked by reporters about the team's disappointing performance, Son offered a brief "I'm sorry" before departing. He was seen wearing a white t-shirt and black pants, maintaining a stoic expression as he left the airport.

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I'm sorry

The atmosphere at the airport was significantly different from the previous day. On June 30, some fans protested loudly against Hong Myung-bo, demanding his resignation and the dissolution of the football association. The situation led to the deployment of police and a tense environment. The contrast in reception highlighted the public's mixed feelings towards the team's World Cup campaign.

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You did your best