South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo resigns after World Cup exit; president calls for probe

Hong Myung-bo has resigned as head coach of the South Korea men's national football team following their group-stage elimination from the World Cup, an exit that has sparked a presidential call for an investigation.

South Korea finished third in Group A with one win and two losses, behind Mexico and South Africa. Their hopes of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams under the tournament's expanded format were dashed on Saturday when other results confirmed their elimination.

Why it matters

The early exit has triggered intense criticism in South Korea, with President Lee Jae Myung demanding an inquiry into the team's disappointing performance. In a social media post, Lee accused the football association of prioritizing "favouritism and cronyism over competence" in the coach selection process.

• Hong Myung-bo resigned at a press conference in Mexico on Sunday, saying responsibility 'rests entirely with me'
• South Korea recorded two losses and one win in Group A, including a 1-0 defeat to South Africa
• The team, ranked 32nd in FIFA's men's rankings, failed to build on a promising start led by Son Heung-min
• Fan group Red Devils called for Hong to 'kneel before the entire nation and leave football forever'
• Hong previously coached South Korea in 2014, also failing to advance past the group stage

What's next

Hong's resignation leaves the Korean Football Association (KFA) searching for a new head coach amid growing public distrust. Hong, who captained South Korea to a historic World Cup semi-final in 2002, said he will continue to support the national team. President Lee's investigation may also lead to broader reforms within the KFA.