South Korean players return from World Cup to contrasting fan reception

South Korean national football team players, led by captain Son Heung-min, returned to Incheon International Airport on July 1 following their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team's departure from the tournament marked the end of their campaign after failing to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Upon arrival, fans greeted Son Heung-min and other players like Kim Seung-gyu, Song Bum-keun, and Um Ji-sung with warm applause and chants of "Son Heung-min, I love you" and "Fighting, players." This reception stood in stark contrast to the one received by former coach Hong Myung-bo and some other players, who faced negative reactions such as "Hong Myung-bo, get out" upon their return.

The South Korean team, placed in Group A, had a disappointing performance. Despite an initial 2-1 victory against the Czech Republic, they suffered 0-1 losses to Mexico and South Africa. Finishing third in their group with one win and two losses, they narrowly missed out on qualifying for the round of 32 as one of the top eight third-placed teams.

Following the World Cup exit, Hong Myung-bo resigned from his position as head coach, accepting responsibility for the team's failure to advance. The remaining players' return completes the squad's homecoming.