South Korea World Cup: Early Exit Triggers Calls for Major Football Overhaul

South Korea’s disappointing first-round exit from the FIFA World Cup has triggered widespread criticism at home, with calls for structural reform intensifying despite the resignation of head coach Hong Myung-bo.

South Korea, who famously reached the World Cup semi-finals as co-hosts in 2002, failed to qualify for the knockout stage after missing out on progression as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

Their campaign ended with a shock 1–0 defeat to lower-ranked South Africa in a match that left advancement within reach but ultimately out of sight.

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Following the elimination, Hong announced his resignation on Sunday, while uncertainty also emerged over the international future of captain Son Heung-min.

The team’s performance drew criticism from President Lee Jae-myung, who apologised to supporters and blamed what he described as ineffective leadership and decision-making.

Public frustration has reflected years of growing dissatisfaction with the direction of South Korean football and the governance of the Korea Football Association (KFA).

Former national team captain Park Ji-sung said the outcome should prompt reflection on long-term planning and development.

He argued that lessons learned over previous World Cup cycles had not been sustained and warned against repeating past mistakes.

South Korea entered Group A with expectations of progressing alongside hosts Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic. The team opened with a victory over the Czech Republic but suffered defeats against Mexico and South Africa.

Local media reported that football authorities were not planning an official public welcome upon the squad’s return.

Hong had faced criticism since returning as head coach in July 2024 following the departure of former manager Jurgen Klinsmann. Questions were raised throughout his tenure over selection decisions and the process behind his appointment.

One of the most debated decisions came in the decisive match against South Africa, when Hong left Son Heung-min out of the starting line-up despite qualification remaining possible with a draw.

Former international Lee Chun-soo described the tournament as a moment demanding change and called for broader accountability across the football structure.

Attention has also turned to Korea Football Association president Chung Mong-gyu, who had previously indicated he intended to step down following the World Cup amid criticism surrounding his leadership.

Questions remain over whether further departures will follow, particularly as Son Heung-min has yet to comment publicly on his international future.

Former captain Park urged the country to use the setback as an opportunity to rebuild and create a stronger foundation for future tournaments.