South Korea is reportedly beefing up security around the return of its national team after a disappointing World Cup group stage exit, with the main anger directed at coach Hong Myung-bo who has stepped down as a result.
The Yonhap news agency said that 160 police officers will be deployed to Incheon airport where the team is to arrive on Tuesday. The airport is providing a 25-strong security force.
One anonymous user is said to have threatened in an online forum to kill Hong on the day of his return.
South Korea won their opening match against the Czech Republic but defeats against Mexico and South Africa saw them finish third in what was deemed a manageable group and failed to advance into the knock-out rounds.
Hong, whose had already flopped at the 2014 tournament before returning in 2024 on a deal until 2027, stepped down.
He is seen as the main reason for the latest setback, and even South Korea’s president, Lee Jae-myung, weighed in with a lengthy statement on X as he named the team’s failing to advance “an absurd affair.”
About the Author
