Extensive security measures have reportedly been put in place ahead of South Korea’s return home following a disappointing World Cup performance. More than 160 riot police were deployed to the airport as the World Cup delegation arrived in the country.
The Sun reported that 25 professional security personnel will also be supporting 160 riot police to prevent chaos after director Hong Myung-bo allegedly received death threats. He later resigned from his post following the team’s defeat in the World Cup’s group stage, and the Incheon Regional Police Agency issued a statement ahead of his arrival.
Police said, “We have decided to deploy security guards to prevent safety incidents when entering the venue. We will take strict action against illegal activities such as throwing objects.”
Myung-bo’s resignation makes him the fourth manager to resign due to the devastating loss in North America.
South Korea started the 2026 World Cup brightly, defeating the Czech Republic 2-1, but things quickly deteriorated. The tournament ended prematurely with consecutive 0-1 losses to Mexico and South Africa, missing out on a place among the top eight teams for third place.
As expectations spread that South Korea would advance to the finals, angry supporters immediately began a petition calling for Hong’s removal. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung also expressed surprise at the premature resignation and called for an investigation into what went wrong.
Hong formally announced his resignation at a press conference in Mexico on Sunday. It is said that his reputation in South Korea suffered significantly and he was refused entry to many stores and restaurants. President Lee’s comments about X were equally damning.
“I am not only surprised by this unexpected outcome, but completely baffled. It proves once again that personnel decisions are everything. When incompetent people are appointed to lead, where loyalty and sectarianism are valued over competency, the results are as predictable as fire.”
This will be Hong’s second stint at the helm of the national team, leading him to the 2014 World Cup before stepping down. His reappointment to the same position in 2024 has sparked allegations of favoritism and a lack of transparency in the hiring process from South Korean media, all of which Hong refuted.
Hong said, “Even though I am leaving the national team, it does not mean I will completely give up Korean soccer.” “I would like to support the national team from the bottom of my heart so that it is once again trusted and loved by the people.”
Fans were growing dissatisfied with Hong, as evidenced by a petition calling for his dismissal and fundamental reforms to the structure of the Korean national team.
