John Duerden

South Korea’s early exit from the 2026 World Cup triggered a national crisis in football, prompting the resignation of coach Hong Myung-bo and intense public anger. Criticism focused on governance failures within the Korea Football Association, particularly under president Chung Mong-gyu, whose controversial appointments and leadership drew scrutiny from fans and government officials. President Lee Jae-myung condemned organisational failings, while tensions within the squad and media added to the turmoil. The team’s decline has been contrasted with Japan’s structured long-term development, underscoring calls for major reform as South Korean football searches for a turning point.