South Korea have found themselves at the centre of a major controversy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after players boycotted media interactions following the leak of remarks mocking captain Son Heung-min’s military service status. The incident has triggered widespread backlash in South Korea and prompted a strong response from the Korea Football Association (KFA).
The controversy stems from a training session held at South Korea’s base camp in Guadalajara, Mexico, on June 7. During a live broadcast of the session, microphones allegedly picked up a conversation between reporters in which Son’s military exemption and leadership were ridiculed. The comments quickly spread on social media and were met with criticism from fans and members of the football community.
The issue is particularly sensitive in South Korea because military service is mandatory for most men. Son, however, earned an exemption from the standard service requirement after helping South Korea win the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games. Despite the exemption, he still completed mandatory basic military training in 2020.
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In response to the leaked remarks, South Korea’s players refused to engage with sections of the domestic media, rallying behind their captain. Reports from Guadalajara suggested that tensions between the squad and journalists escalated significantly, with the team taking steps to limit media access in the aftermath of the incident.
KOREA FOOTBALL EXPRESSES SHOCK
The KFA subsequently released a statement expressing regret over the “inappropriate remarks” made by certain media personnel. The governing body said the comments had caused “great shock and disappointment” within the squad and emphasised that respect for players must take precedence in all reporting activities. The association also called on media outlets to demonstrate greater responsibility and consideration toward the national team.
“The Korea Football Association respects the reporting activities and the role of the media. However, on-site reporting must also be conducted based on mutual respect and trust, and respect for and protection of the players must take precedence,” the statement said.
“In response, the Korea Football Association requests that media outlets and reporters show greater consideration and a responsible attitude toward the national team and players to prevent similar situations from recurring,” the statement added.
The controversy has overshadowed what has otherwise been a positive start to South Korea’s World Cup campaign. Hong Myung-bo’s side opened their tournament with a 2-1 comeback victory over the Czech Republic and currently sit among the leading teams in Group A. However, the focus has shifted from football to the growing rift between the national team and sections of the South Korean media.
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