Hong Myung-bo resigns after South Korea's World Cup exit
Hong Myung-bo resigned as South Korea's head coach on Sunday, June 28, 2026, following the team's group-stage elimination from the FIFA World Cup. The decision was announced at the team's training camp in Guadalajara after South Korea failed to secure a spot in the Round of 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Statement from Hong Myung-bo
"Today, I wish to step down as head coach of the South Korean national football team. Accepting this role was never an easy decision for me," Hong said, according to Reuters. He added, "However, once I made that decision, I did not consider any other reasons. I believed my only task was to fulfil the responsibility entrusted to me to the end."
Appointment and World Cup campaign
Hong was appointed in July 2024 as the long-term successor to Juergen Klinsmann. He guided South Korea to a record-extending 11th consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance. The team, featuring stars like Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in, and Kim Min-jae, was expected to advance from a group that included co-hosts Mexico, the Czech Republic, and South Africa.
Group stage results
South Korea started with a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic but then suffered losses to Mexico and South Africa. These results left them reliant on outcomes in other groups to progress, but those results did not go their way, confirming their elimination from the tournament.
Resignation and aftermath
Hong's resignation marks the end of a tenure that began with high hopes but ended in disappointment. The Korean Football Association will now begin the search for a new head coach ahead of future international competitions.
