President Lee, consoles national soccer team after World Cup elimination: "Proud regardless of results... May this painful setback become a foundation for future leaps"

*This content was translated by AI.

President Lee Jae-myung offered words of comfort and encouragement to the South Korean national soccer team, which failed to advance to the Round of 32 at the 2026 North American World Cup.

On the 1st, President Lee posted a message on his X (formerly Twitter) account titled, "To the South Korean national soccer players, whose hearts are heavier than anyone else's, we offer our deepest condolences."

The national team lost 0-1 to South Africa in their final Group Stage match on the 25th, finishing with one win and two losses, and thus failed to advance to the Round of 32. Coach Hong Myung-bo has abruptly resigned, taking responsibility for the team's poor performance.

Addressing the team upon their return amidst a chaotic atmosphere, President Lee said, "For the past four years, you have focused solely on the World Cup, played numerous friendly matches, and overcome unexpected injuries and grueling rehabilitation. The weight of bearing the title 'South Korean National Representative' may have been even more difficult than physical pain. I understand how futile it must feel that this entire journey ended in just a few days."

He further stated, "However, you did not give up until the final moment, pouring everything you had onto the field to bring hope and pride to the people. Regardless of the match result, you are truly a South Korean national representative of whom we can be proud."

He also promised genuine support beyond the results and government assistance. President Lee emphasized, "Everyone celebrates together in moments of victory. However, true support means not letting go of the players' hands even in the face of disappointing results. We well understand the value of the sweat and tears the players have shed, as well as the value of the remaining matches they could not play. We will continue to cheer for you, the pride of South Korean soccer, without change."

Finally, he added, "We will do everything possible as a government to ensure that this painfully painful tournament does not remain merely a source of frustration, but instead becomes a foundation for a greater leap forward for South Korean soccer. To our national soccer team, including captain Son Heung-min, you have worked very hard."

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*This content was translated by AI.