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South Korea exits World Cup after group stage defeat, faces presidential backlash

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 6:02 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

South Korea exits World Cup after group stage defeat, faces presidential backlash

Summary

South Korea's national soccer team has been eliminated from the World Cup following two losses in their group matches. After winning their opening match against the Czech Republic, they lost to South Africa and Mexico. President Lee Jae Myung criticized the team's structure and coaching decisions, calling for a review of the national team’s oversight. Coach Hong Myung-bo, who previously led the team in 2014, is reported to have quit following the team's disappointing performance.

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By the Numbers

•South Korea won their opener against Czech Republic.
•Two subsequent losses led to early elimination from the tournament.
•President Lee Jae Myung criticized team management and coaching choices.
•Coach Hong Myung-bo reportedly resigned after the World Cup exit.
•Congo's victory over Uzbekistan sealed South Korea's fate in the tournament.

Latest Updates

6:02 PMYahoo Sports — South Korea leaves World Cup in turmoil as early exit prompts fierce criticism from president

What they're saying

"
The quick exit for a team that expected to advance prompted harsh criticism from President Lee Jae Myung. “As a former honorary professional football club chairman and, at heart, a member of the Red Devils, I feel not just surprise but deep bewilderment at this unexpected result," the president said in a lengthy statement critical of national team structure and oversight and coach Myung-bo's appointment in the first place.
— Yahoo Sportsby JIM VERTUNO

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Yahoo SportsJun 28, 2026, 6:02 PM
South Korea leaves World Cup in turmoil as early exit prompts fierce criticism from president
The quick exit for a team that expected to advance prompted harsh criticism from President Lee Jae Myung. “As a former honorary professional football club chairman and, at heart, a member of the Red Devils, I feel not just surprise but deep bewilderment at this unexpected result," the president said in a lengthy statement critical of national team structure and oversight and coach Myung-bo's appointment in the first place.

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