South Korea coach resigns after Bafana heartbreak

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo has resigned from his position as head coach after his side’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the hands of Bafana Bafana.

South Korea landed back in their country on Monday, with the team receiving a poor reception at the airport.

Korean fans show their disappointment

This followed the side’s disappointing performance at the World Cup, where they failed to progress from Group A, despite being widely considered favourites to do so ahead of Bafana Bafana.

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Bafana Bafana beat South Korea, ultimately leading to their elimination in the group-stage.

According to ChoSun Daily, at least 200 fans were at the airport in protest against the national team and, in particular, coach Hong.

Police were deployed in order to maintain calm at the airport, as supporters displayed placards reading: “Hong Myung-bo, step down!”, “Korean football is dead”, “Hong Myung-bo! Spit out the money and step down! Complete dissolution of the KFA!”

Hong steps down

It is said that coach Hong immediately stepped down from his position, while he also refused to respond to journalists’ questions at the airport.

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Furthermore, it was also reported that this is the first time the South Korean national team did not receive a welcoming ceremony after returning from the World Cup.

By Lukhanyo Mtuta

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2026 Fifa World Cup Bafana Bafana Hong Myung-bo News South Korea