South Korea Coach Receives Death Threats After World Cup Exit; Police Investigate

South Korean football coach Hong Myung-bo is facing intense backlash and has received death threats following the national team's early exit from the 2026 World Cup. The team failed to advance past the group stage, sparking widespread anger among fans.

One particularly alarming incident involved a user on an online forum posting a threat to kill Hong Myung-bo, vowing to harm him upon his arrival at Incheon Airport. The offensive post was quickly removed, but not before authorities were alerted.

South Korean police have launched an investigation into the threats, intending to track down the individual responsible and charge them with intimidation. Authorities are also heightening security protocols surrounding the national team's return to the country to prevent any potential incidents.

Hong Myung-bo has a long history with the national team, serving as an assistant coach in 2005 before taking over as head coach for the 2014 World Cup. He resigned after that tournament's group stage exit but returned to lead the team for the current World Cup, with disappointing results once again.