Hong Myung-bo leaves for US amid mounting fallout after South Korea's World Cup exit

July 04, 2026 • 0 • min read

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Former South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has travelled to the United States just two days after returning home from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as public criticism, political scrutiny and security concerns continue to intensify following the nation's disappointing group-stage exit.

Hong resigned immediately after South Korea's elimination from the tournament on 29 June.

His departure from the country comes as authorities prepare to investigate the reasons behind the team's failure and online threats against the former coach raise concerns over his safety.

Security tightened before Hong's departure

Before Hong arrived at Incheon International Airport on 30 June, police reportedly strengthened security after online posts threatened to kill the former national team manager.

French outlet RMC Sport reported that Hong left for the United States on 2 July "for safety reasons," describing the move as a reflection of the intense public anger directed towards him in South Korea.

The report also noted that whilst criticism remains fierce at home, sympathy for Hong is beginning to emerge in Japan.

Several Japanese politicians and sports commentators believe the criticism aimed at the South Korean football legend has gone too far, even though they acknowledge he must accept responsibility for his country's disappointing World Cup campaign.

Hong declines to explain World Cup failure

Speaking briefly to reporters before boarding his flight, Hong gave little indication of when he intends to address the controversy.

I have a story to tell, but one day it will come out properly. I won't explain my position in detail at this time.

When asked whether he would attend a parliamentary hearing being discussed by politicians, he avoided giving a direct answer.

Instead, Hong simply replied that he did not know when he would return to South Korea.

South Korea police investigate death threat against Hong Myung-bo after World Cup exit

South Korean police investigate death threats against Hong Myung-bo after the national team's shock 2026 World Cup exit.

Reports claim Hong has no plans to return soon

According to South Korean broadcaster MBN, Hong informed close acquaintances before leaving that he has no immediate plans to return to South Korea.

The report also claimed he is not considering attending any parliamentary hearing related to the national team's World Cup failure.

Hong is believed to have travelled to Los Angeles, where members of his family reportedly reside, and is expected to remain there for the time being.

Private airport exit fuels speculation

After landing at Los Angeles International Airport, Hong reportedly did not emerge through the standard arrivals hall.

Instead, he is believed to have used a private VIP arrival service, allowing passengers to bypass public areas of the airport.

The premium "PS Direct" service enables travellers to transfer directly from their aircraft to a private vehicle, avoiding the main terminal entirely. The service is commonly used by celebrities, executives and high-profile individuals seeking additional privacy.

Whilst there is no confirmation that Hong used the service specifically to avoid public attention, reports noted that he did not appear in the general arrivals area.

Government investigation underway

South Korea's World Cup disappointment has triggered political intervention.

President Lee Jae-myung and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young have both pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the national team's early elimination.

The inquiry is expected to examine both the causes of the World Cup failure and the decision-making processes within the Korea Football Association, including its long-criticised personnel structure.

Silence continues to fuel speculation

Hong has yet to issue a detailed public explanation or apology since resigning.

His continued silence has allowed speculation to grow over reports of dressing-room tensions during the tournament, including alleged disagreements involving captain Son Heung-min and questions surrounding the absence of midfielder Lee Jae-sung from the match against South Africa.

None of these claims have been officially confirmed, and Hong has not publicly addressed the rumours.

With a government investigation looming and public frustration still running high, uncertainty continues to surround both the circumstances of South Korea's World Cup collapse and Hong's future.