FIFA World Cup 2026: South Korea Coach, Players Receive Hostile Reception at Airport After Crushing Exit (WATCH)

South Korea’s football team and coach Hong Myung-bo received a hostile welcome from angry fans at Incheon Airport after their early FIFA World Cup 2026 exit. Frustration over the team’s poor campaign and off-field controversies sparked boos and fresh criticism of the Korea Football Association.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo and players received a very hostile reception from angry fans at Incheon International Airport upon their return home following their disappointing campaign at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

South Korea was knocked out of the tournament after finishing third place in Group A with just three points following defeats to Mexico and South Africa, despite an opening victory against the Czech Republic. The Korean side couldn’t go past the group stage, as they finished 10th in the overall group rankings, capping off a thoroughly underwhelming tournament that fell way short of expectations.

Despite having star players like former Tottenham Hotspur star Son Heung-min and Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Hwang Hee-chan leading the squad, the team failed to find consistency and deliver the results needed to advance to the knockout rounds.

South Korea Players Abused by Fans at Airport

South Korea squad, including the coach Hong Myung-bo, arrived at Incheon International Airport around 4:30 AM local time in order to avoid large crowds and potential clashes with angry protesters. However, much to the surprise of the coach and players, a dedicated group of incessant fans and media personnel were already waiting at the arrival gate.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), South Korean fans unleashed their jeers and abuses at Hong Myung-bo, who was at the centre of the storm, facing harsh criticism over his tactical decisions and team selection throughout the dismal World Cup campaign.

One fan directed an insult at the South Korean coach, saying:

“The World Cup was ruined because of you. Korean football has now gone 30 years backward. Myung-bo, spit out your salary.”

Apparently, players were spared by the furious supporters for the most part, though the heavy atmosphere and intense backlash left the entire squad visibly shaken as they made their quiet exit from the terminal. The coach and players exited the airport with heavy security surrounding them to maintain order and ensure their safe departure amidst the chaotic and hostile environment.

The frustration and wrath of the fans stemmed from Hong Myung-bo’s appointment as head coach having already been simmering for months, and this early World Cup exit only served to validate their deepest concerns regarding his leadership and tactical direction.

South Korea’s World Cup Campaign Marred by Controversy

South Korea’s early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 was just a reflection of deeper systemic issues within the national setup, but the off-field friction with domestic media only compounded an already toxic environment, creating an unprecedented standoff between the squad and the press during the tournament.

The leaked audio of a Korean media person, wherein he allegedly mocked Son Heung-min for his legitimate military service exemption, ignited a massive uproar. Despite the South Korean captain having undergone military training during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the insensitive comments regarding his service record sparked immense backlash.

This led the squad to completely sever ties with the domestic press in a display of unity. However, in an unprecedented move reflecting the total breakdown in relations, South Korean television networks and media outlets began blurring out coach Hong Myung-bo’s face during broadcasts of post-match press conferences, further heightening the severe disconnect between the players, press, and fans.

South Korea president Lee Jae Myung says he is "utterly baffled" about the national team's group stage exit and has criticized the South Korean football association's appointment of head coach Hong Myung-Bo, per @TheAthleticFC.

President Lee is calling for the country's sports… pic.twitter.com/RwNKUtD5I3

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) June 28, 2026

South Korea’s exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the off-field controversy prompted widespread calls for a full investigation into the Korea Football Association (KFA) and a complete overhaul of the nation's football administration.