Hong Myung-bo has resigned as South Korea head coach after the country’s group-stage exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, taking responsibility for the disappointing campaign.
The 57-year-old stepped down on Sunday, June 28, 2026, a day after South Korea’s hopes of reaching the Round of 32 were ended.
The Taegeuk Warriors finished third in Group A with three points after beating the Czech Republic 2-1 but losing 1-0 to South Africa and co-hosts Mexico, missing out on a place among the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
The elimination marked Hong’s second World Cup group-stage exit as South Korea coach, having also failed to progress beyond the first round at the 2014 tournament.
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Announcing his resignation, Hong said every decision he made during his tenure was guided by what he believed was best for Korean football. He admitted the team fell short of expectations and accepted full responsibility for the outcome.
The early exit sparked widespread criticism at home, with President Lee Jae Myung apologising to supporters and calling for reforms to ensure merit, rather than loyalty, guides future appointments in sports administration.
Hong had faced mounting pressure since returning as coach in July 2024. His decision to leave captain Son Heung-min out of the starting line-up for the decisive defeat to South Africa drew heavy criticism after the result severely damaged South Korea’s qualification hopes.
Despite resigning, Hong said he would continue to support the national team and hoped it would regain the trust of its supporters.