South Korean broadcaster blurs coach's face after World Cup exit; coach resigns

A South Korean television station has drawn significant backlash for blurring the image of national football coach Hong Myung-bo during a post-match press conference. The incident occurred after the national team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup, adding to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the team's performance.

The broadcaster, KBS, blurred the coach's face as he spoke, a move widely interpreted as disrespectful and dismissive. This action intensified public criticism of the team's early exit from the tournament, with media outlets and political figures already scrutinizing the squad's performance. The decision to obscure the coach's image fueled discussions about how accountability for the team's failure was being publicly addressed.

Under mounting pressure and public outcry, Hong Myung-bo announced his resignation from his position as head coach. He issued an apology to the Korean public for the team's results and stated that he was stepping down, fulfilling his duties until the end. The incident highlights the intense scrutiny and high expectations placed upon the national football team in South Korea.

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I deeply apologize to the Korean public who supported our team. Today, I am stepping down. Taking this job was never an easy choice, but from the moment I accepted it, my only focus was to fulfill my duties responsibly until the end.