South Korea crashes out of World Cup, coach Hong Myung-bo's future uncertain

South Korea's national football team has been eliminated from the 2026 North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup after a disappointing performance in the group stage. The team secured only one win and two losses, failing to advance despite the tournament expanding to 48 teams, which was expected to make progression easier.

The team's elimination has intensified focus on the future of head coach Hong Myung-bo. He is scheduled to hold a press conference to conclude the tournament, with his official contract extending until the AFC Asian Cup in early 2025. However, the public's significant disappointment following the World Cup exit casts doubt on whether he will complete his tenure.

This outcome echoes Hong's previous experience leading the national team in the 2014 Brazil World Cup, where a similarly poor performance resulted in his resignation. The current situation has fueled public debate about his leadership and the team's future direction. Adding to the narrative, Korea Football Association president Chung Mong-gyu had previously announced his intention to step down after the World Cup, raising questions about whether Hong will follow suit.