[Official Announcement] Korea Professional Football Referees Association "Feeling a sense of responsibility for consecutive controversies... Will sincerely apologize and prove it through action"

*This content was translated by AI.

The Korea Professional Football Referees Association has officially apologized for recent controversial rulings and various issues raised, while declaring a strong commitment to reform.

On the 15th, the association released a statement titled "Apology and Reform Statement for Restoring Trust in Professional Football Referees," stating, "To all football fans who love Korean football, as well as players, coaches, clubs, and everyone involved in football: Recent controversies surrounding professional football referees and various concerns have caused worry and disappointment to many who love the sport. We take this situation very seriously, feel a deep sense of responsibility, and sincerely apologize."

The association emphasized fairness and trust as its top priorities. It stated, "Fairness and trust are the very reason for a referee's existence and their most fundamental duty. Accuracy and consistency in rulings, restrained conduct, responsible communication, and high ethical standards are principles that referees must strictly uphold."

It further pledged to directly address criticisms pouring in from within and outside the football community. The association said, "We will not ignore or make excuses for current criticisms and concerns. We will work harder to strengthen professionalism to improve the accuracy and consistency of rulings, and we will respect all members of the football community, including players and coaches, both inside and outside the stadium, approaching our duties with a responsible attitude."

Internal ethical standards and disciplinary measures will be further strengthened. The association explained, "Under the principle that no act undermining fairness or ethics or damaging trust in referees will be tolerated, we will set even stricter standards for ourselves as an association and its members. We will humbly listen to criticisms and voices from fans and the football field. We will boldly improve areas where we need self-correction and responsibly propose and cooperate on matters that require joint improvement with institutional investors."

The commitment to action was reiterated. The association vowed, "This apology will not end with words alone. Reflection will not remain in speech; apologies will be proven through actions. Reform will be established as sustainable principles and culture."

Finally, the association stated, "We will use this incident as an opportunity to rebuild the standards and culture of professional football referees. We will listen more humbly, reflect on ourselves with higher standards, and bring about responsible change. Once again, we sincerely apologize for causing worry and disappointment to all who love football."

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*This content was translated by AI.