South Korea Launches Probe After World Cup Exit and Coach Hong Myung-bo Resigns

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has ordered an investigation into the national football team’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the country’s early elimination from the tournament and the resignation of head coach Hong Myung-bo.

The decision follows South Korea’s exit from the group stage after losing 1-0 to South Africa in their final Group A match.

Coach Hong Myung-bo Steps Down

On June 28, 2026, Hong Myung-bo announced his resignation during a press conference, accepting responsibility for the team’s disappointing performance.

“I am stepping down as head coach because we did not deliver the results our fans expected. Although I am leaving the national team, I will never turn my back on Korean football,” Hong said.

He added that he would continue supporting South Korean football and hoped supporters would continue backing the national team.

President Orders Investigation

Shortly before Hong’s resignation, President Lee Jae-myung criticized the team’s World Cup preparations in a strongly worded statement shared on social media.

“This is not confusion, it is incompetence that has produced predictable results. It reflects the weaknesses of those responsible for the team’s preparation,” Lee wrote.

The president also warned against favoritism and nepotism in football administration, arguing that appointments based on personal connections rather than merit ultimately lead to failure.

According to South Korean media, officials involved in preparing the national team for the World Cup are now under investigation following the president’s directive.

South Korea Falls Short in Group Stage

South Korea opened its Group A campaign with a victory over the Czech Republic, raising hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

However, consecutive 1-0 defeats against Mexico and South Africa ended those hopes and resulted in the team’s elimination from the tournament.

The final defeat prevented South Korea from advancing as one of the competition’s best third-placed teams.