This is not an issue to be ended by a resignation. A great transformation is needed to return South Korean football to the arms of the people."
Democratic Party Lawmaker Park Beom-kye said South Korean football needs complete reconstruction rather than simple remodeling, while fellow lawmaker Cho Kye-won called for major surgery on the national system.
Ruling People Power Party Lawmaker Kim Seung-su attributed the loss to tactical failures and demanded the dissolution and total reform of the association.
"Sports do not always have victories.
We must provide unsparing applause and encouragement for the sweat and effort shed while doing one's best," said People Power Party Lawmaker Jin Jong-oh.
"However, the evaluation of results must be made through cold analysis, not emotion, to avoid repeating the same mistakes and move toward a stronger South Korean football."
Jin emphasized that leadership accountability is crucial for national sports progression.
"The coach at the center of that responsibility must also bear the responsibility for the results," Jin said.
"Coach Hong Myung-bo, thank you for your hard work. Now, I hope you lay down the helm for a new leap forward in South Korean football."
Further criticism came from within the political sphere regarding Hong's management style.
"This is a disaster of Hong Myung-bo's lack of leadership. He silenced the players with authoritarian tactics," claimed People Power Party Lawmaker Ju Jin-woo.
Democratic Party Lawmaker Moon Geum-ju expressed strong dissatisfaction immediately after the South Africa match.
"Is this all you can do with such good players?" Moon questioned.
"Stepping down is not enough. Never hang around as a football coach again."
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The main contingent of the national team, including Hong and eight players such as Lee Kang-in and Kim Min-jae, is scheduled to return to South Korea via Incheon International Airport on June 30, 2026, without any official welcoming ceremonies.
