South Korean football fans erupted in anger after national team's early World Cup exit . They're demanding big changes at Korea Football Association (KFA). Loss to South Africa just the latest blow, reigniting old frustrations over KFA's decisions.
At Incheon Airport, fans confronted team as they returned. Coach Hong Myung-bo bore brunt of it . "Hong out!" they chanted, following him to his car. Some players got cheers,but Hong was main target. No surprise there — many had already questioned his appointment, calling for his resignation before tournament even began.
Hong's stint as coach has been rocky. Critics say KFA chose him for connections,not merit. Sports commentator Choi Dong-ho blames KFA's incompetence. After exit,Hong owned up: "the responsibility rests entirely with me." President Lee Jae Myung wants investigation into KFA's operations.
Hong started strong, leading South Korea to FIFA U-20 World Cup quarter-finals in 2009,bronze at 2012 London Olympics. But 2014 was a disaster — crushing loss to Algeria. Fans haven't forgotten. His 2024 return was met with skepticism.
Before Hong,Jurgen Klinsmann was ousted after poor 2023 AFC Asian Cup. Many high-profile names considered for role. Rumors swirled Hong got nod due to ties with KFA officials,including chairman Chung Mong-gyu. Accusations of cronyism flew. Former player Park Joo-ho called process flawed,KFA threatened legal action against him.
Late 2024,a government audit slammed KFA for lack of transparency in Klinsmann's firing,Hong's hiring . Audit found Hong was basically picked before process even started . Lawmakers summoned Chung for questioning,recommended disciplinary actions against KFA execs.
Despite chaos,Hong stayed on as World Cup neared . Team showed promise against Czech Republic,then lost to Mexico,South Africa. Fans upset with Hong's tactics,especially benching star Son Heung-min against South Africa. Critics say Hong mismanaged Son,leaving him isolated .
Facing elimination, Son took to social media,sharing fans' pain. "I believe what fans are feeling wouldn't be all that different from what I'm feeling," he wrote. Now, with early World Cup exit,supporters wonder about future of South Korean football,KFA's ability to regain trust…
