South Korean fans protest after World Cup exit and demand reforms

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 10:00 PM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

South Korean fans protest after World Cup exit and demand reforms
Summary

Following South Korea's exit from the World Cup after losing to South Africa, fans expressed their anger outside Incheon airport. They blamed coach Hong Myung-bo, leading chants for his resignation. Critics pointed to longstanding issues within the Korea Football Association, alleging cronyism in coach selections. Hong has since apologized and resigned, while the KFA faces scrutiny and calls for an investigation, which President Lee Jae Myung has initiated. The controversy is seen as a pivotal moment for reform in South Korean football.

Source Links
By the Numbers
  • South Korea exits the World Cup after loss to South Africa.
  • Fans protest at Incheon airport, demanding coach's resignation.
  • Hong Myung-bo resigns, taking responsibility for the team's performance.
  • Criticism highlights alleged cronyism in coach selections by the KFA.
  • President Lee calls for an official investigation into the KFA.
Latest Updates
  • 10:00 PMYahoo SportsSouth Korean football is dead, say furious fans, as they demand sweeping reform
What they're saying
"

An early World Cup exit has triggered what some say is a long overdue reckoning for the Korean Football Association.

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days