South Korea Coach Myung-bo Hong Resigns After 2026 World Cup Group Stage Exit
South Korea’s head coach Myung‑bo Hong has stepped down after the Taegeuk Warriors finished the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage with just one win and two losses, earning three points and an early exit.
Speaking at a press conference on June 28, the 57‑year‑old offered a sincere apology to the nation’s supporters and accepted full responsibility for the disappointing campaign.
“I apologise to every citizen who backed the national team. I will resign from my coaching role because the position of head coach is not a guaranteed duty; it is built on communication and accountability from planning to the final result,” Hong said.
He added that over the past two years he continually questioned whether his decisions truly served South Korean football, acknowledging that none were perfect but that the period remains an important chapter for the sport in the country.
Hong took over in July 2024 on a contract that was set to run until after the 2027 Asian Cup. During his tenure he managed 27 matches, recording 15 wins, five draws and six defeats.
His departure makes him the fourth coach to leave his post during the tournament. Scotland’s Steve Clarke resigned on June 27 after his side’s Group C exit, Tunisia dismissed Sabri Lamouchi following a 5‑1 loss to Sweden on June 16, and Uruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa walked away after the South Americans failed to win a match and collected only two points.
Hong expressed gratitude to his players, coaching staff and everyone involved, reiterating that his passion for South Korean football will never fade.
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