After missing out on a place in the round of 32 on goal difference, South Korea are heading home from the World Cup.
Everything looked like it was going to plan for the Taegeuk Warriors, after a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic in their opening match, but two successive defeats, to co-hosts Mexico and then to South Africa, have cost them dearly.
As with many nations who have high hopes of their side making a big push at the tournament, it sparked national outrage when it was confirmed they’d play no further part at the World Cup, but one post online has gone way too far, targeting the manager and former captain of the national side, Hong Myung-bo.
South Korea Boss Subjected to Death Threats Online
In the wake of their exit, South Korean police have now launched an investigation after a violent death threat was posted online targeting Hong, one of Korea's best players of all time. The post, made by someone who is supposedly a 41-year-old American citizen, threatened to kill Hong at Incheon International Airport upon his return home.
Authorities are now considering intimidation charges and working to track down the suspect's identity, as public anger over the team's tournament exit continues to brew.
The threat represents a serious escalation of frustration that has already manifested in several other forms. A doctored image circulated online appeared to suggest Hong ordered players to scatter upon his arrival at the airport, while "Hong Myung-bo banned" notices have reportedly been posted at restaurants and cafes across Gyeonggi Province.
The anger largely stems from Korea's 0-1 defeat to South Africa in their final Group A match, which they were heavily backed to win and progress into the knockout rounds. Police have confirmed they are monitoring Incheon Airport and other potential locations closely to ensure Hong's safety upon his return.
Hong Myung-bo's Future
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| Kim Soo-Hyeon via Reuters |
The situation reignited questions surrounding Hong's controversial reappointment as head coach back in 2024, a decision that drew criticism over the transparency of the Korea Football Association's selection process at the time.
A petition calling for his immediate dismissal had already gathered enough support to trigger an initial review by the National Assembly, and the president of South Korea was even involved, though Hong has since resigned from his position.
Even so, the emergence of direct threats against his safety has shifted attention away from those administrative matters entirely, with authorities now focused on protecting him and holding whoever issued the threat accountable.
- Joshua Waite
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