*This content was translated by AI.
Japanese media outlets also showed interest in the background behind former South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo's sudden departure for the United States just two days after his return, following his resignation to take responsibility for the team's poor performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
On the 3rd, Sports Nippon reported, "Did former coach Hong Myung-bo flee? Fans expressed dissatisfaction as he left for the United States again just two days after returning home to rest." It was reported that Coach Hong departed for the United States where his family is staying.
The outlet added, "Coach Hong took charge of the South Korean national team again in July 2024 but finished third in Group A with only three points (one win and two losses), ultimately failing to advance to the Round of 32. This marks another group-stage exit following the 2014 Brazil World Cup."
It further stated, "On the 30th at the airport upon the team's return, fans appeared holding memorial portraits bearing the emblem of the Korea Football Association or unfurled banners reading 'South Korean football is dead' and 'Return the estimated 2 billion won (annual salary) and leave.'" The report also conveyed the tense atmosphere at the airport during his arrival.
Citing domestic media reports, it added, "Regarding the background behind former coach Hong's departure for the United States just two days after returning, complaints have emerged on major football communities suggesting he may be trying to avoid criticism from political circles or a parliamentary hearing."
Another outlet, Nikkan Sports, also highlighted the situation, stating, "Reports of former coach Hong Myung-bo's sudden trip to the United States have emerged in South Korea. Although he headed to Los Angeles where his family resides, this timing could be perceived as an overseas escape amid ongoing criticism. This is truly an 'international disgrace.'"
It further added, "It is reported that Coach Hong's wife and children are staying in Los Angeles, United States. When departing, he told Korean reporters, 'I have something I want to say, but there will be a proper opportunity to speak about it someday.' He also denied rumors of discord within the squad, indicating they were untrue."
Nikkan Sports explained, "South Korea won its first World Cup match against Czech Republic but then suffered consecutive losses to Mexico and South Africa, resulting in elimination from the group stage. Although former coach Hong resigned to take responsibility, criticism continues in South Korea regarding player selection, tactics, and the process of appointing the national team coach."
In addition to Coach Hong's departure, Japanese media also showed interest in news about police investigations into matters such as the appointment of Hong Myung-bo.
Tokyo Sports reported, "Controversy surrounding the South Korean national football team that failed to advance from the group stage at the North America, Central America and Caribbean World Cup is growing out of control." According to domestic reports, police are expected to investigate whether former coaches Jürgen Klinsmann (Germany) and Hong Myung-bo's appointments involved illegal interference by figures such as Jeong Mong-gyu. The failure to advance from the group stage has ultimately led to a police investigation."
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*This content was translated by AI.
