South Korea Finishes Third in Group, Eliminated from 2026 World Cup; Coach Hong Myung-bo Resigns

South Korea national football team coach Hong Myung-Bo resigned on June 28, 2026, less than 24 hours after the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup was confirmed. Hong made the announcement Sunday morning in Guadalajara, Mexico, where the team had been based after finishing its Group A campaign. South Korea ended third in the group with one win and two losses.

Results elsewhere on Saturday prevented the team from advancing as one of the best third-placed sides. Reading from a prepared statement without taking questions, Hong said he accepted full responsibility. "Today, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Korea Republic national football team," he stated.

South Korea defeated Czechia before losing to Mexico and South Africa. The exit contrasted with the team's run to the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup, where it lost 4-1 to Brazil. President Lee Jae Myung criticized the national team structure, oversight and Hong's appointment.

He described feeling "not just surprise but deep bewilderment" at the result and ordered a complete review of the program. Hong had previously resigned as head coach immediately after the 2014 World Cup, which marked South Korea's worst performance in the tournament since 1998.