South Korea President Calls for Investigation into World Cup Performance

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is seeking a comprehensive investigation into the national team’s recent performance at the World Cup. The team’s early exit after failing to advance from Group A has led to coach Hong Myung-bo’s resignation.

South Korea managed to earn three points in three matches, defeating the Czech Republic but losing to Mexico and South Africa. Lee described himself as “utterly baffled” by the team’s performance and questioned the selection of Hong as coach.

Hong, a former national star defender, announced his resignation one day after the team failed to secure one of the eight third-place spots necessary for advancement. “It was not an easy decision for me to take this role,” Hong stated, “but once I took it, I thought about nothing else except being responsible until the very last moment.”

President Lee emphasized the need for accountability, noting the substantial taxpayer funds invested in the World Cup campaign. He has tasked the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism with conducting an in-depth investigation.

“Significant national taxpayer funds and state support resources are invested even in World Cup participation,” Lee stated. “I ask that the Ministry thoroughly investigate the circumstances, analyze its causes, and develop measures for preventing recurrence and improvement.”

Lee also mentioned upcoming reforms to the country’s sports administration to prevent future disappointments.

Hong played in four World Cups during his career, earning recognition for scoring 10 goals in 136 international appearances. He previously managed the national team from 2013 to 2014, resigning after their elimination during the group stage of the 2014 World Cup.