South Korea Coach Flees to US Amid Death Threats Following World Cup Exit

South Korea's national football team was eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, contrary to expectations, sparking widespread outrage in the country. The team's head coach, Hong Myung-bo, faced intense criticism and threats to his life, prompting him to flee South Korea for the United States. Earlier this week, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung openly condemned the decision to appoint Hong as coach and called for a government investigation into the team's poor World Cup performance.

After the elimination, Hong returned to South Korea under police protection but was met by hostile fans holding protest signs. As threats against him escalated, he decided to leave the country. South Korean media outlet MBC captured footage of Hong attempting to conceal his identity with a face mask and cap while departing for the US. In a statement, Hong apologized to the Korean people and announced his resignation as head coach, adding, "I have things to say, but the story will be revealed one day."