South Korean football body investigated for paying for sexual services for referees

The South Korean Football Association (KFA) is facing a new scandal, with allegations that it paid for sexual services for foreign referees and officials. The investigation, which began on August 6, reportedly covers a period between 2011 and 2012, involving at least seven international matches.

According to reports from South Korean broadcaster JTBC and the Yonhap news agency, the KFA allegedly arranged and paid for visits to massage parlors and other establishments offering sexual services for referees. These services reportedly cost hundreds of euros. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not yet found evidence suggesting that these alleged payments influenced any match outcomes in favor of the South Korean national team.

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The investigation is based on evidence, including credit card statements and government audit documents.

This latest controversy adds to the pressure on the KFA, which is also under scrutiny for alleged irregularities in the appointment of national team coach Hong Myung-bo. The association is accused of bypassing standard procedures in selecting him for the role. The current investigation into the alleged bribery of officials is based on evidence including credit card statements and government audit documents. Some former KFA officials have reportedly described such services as customary and even expected by some referees.

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Such services were commonplace and some football referees even expected them.