South Korea's national football team faced severe criticism on Sunday after being officially eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reigniting public scrutiny over the appointment process and tactical leadership of head coach Hong Myung-bo.
The team finished 34th in the tournament with only three points from a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic and losses to Mexico and South Africa.
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Their elimination was confirmed when the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, ending South Korea's hopes of advancing as one of the best third-place teams.
Despite a squad valued at 256 billion won ($167 million), including Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in valued at 49.5 billion won, the team struggled with tactical cohesion.
Critics questioned the decision to bench captain Son Heung-min during the crucial match against South Africa.
South Africa manager Hugo Broos highlighted tactical discrepancies, saying his team was "better tactically" and that Korea's playing style had been predictable.
Domestic commentators echoed these concerns, noting a lack of structure and coordination.
"It was a difficult match where it was even hard to tell what the tactical direction was," said commentator Lee Young-pyo, who played alongside Hong in the 2002 World Cup.
Veteran media analyst Park Moon-sung added, "There was no promised play when a player held the ball.
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There was no attacking pattern, no tactic, and they just stood there."
Hong's post-match remarks further intensified public dissatisfaction.
