Korea Football Association Issues Apology Amid Controversy
KFA's Apology Over Allegations
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Seoul, August 8: The Korea Football Association (KFA) has issued an apology following serious allegations regarding the provision of sexual entertainment to foreign referees and match officials during international matches in South Korea in 2011 and 2012.
This apology comes in the wake of various controversies surrounding the KFA, particularly after South Korea's disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Recent reports from local media indicated that the KFA had organized such entertainment for foreign officials during multiple World Cup and Olympic qualifiers, as well as friendly matches during the specified years.
The KFA expressed its "deep regret" for the distress and concern triggered by a parliamentary inquiry, a police raid on its headquarters, and media coverage of alleged misconduct from over a decade ago.
The association assured that there are currently no ongoing improper practices or misuse of corporate funds, and it has committed to implementing extensive reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and ethical standards to regain public confidence.
Additionally, the KFA has been under scrutiny regarding the appointment of former national team coach Hong Myung-bo. Earlier this week, police conducted a raid at its headquarters as part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in the 2024 appointment process.
A parliamentary hearing was held last month to interrogate former KFA president Chung Mong-gyu and Hong about the management of the national team and the association's operations. Chung Mong-gyu resigned from his position as president of the KFA a few weeks ago, following the fallout from South Korea's lackluster World Cup performance.
Chung's resignation came after head coach Hong Myung-bo stepped down, as South Korea failed to advance to the knockout stage, finishing third in Group A with just three points. The team managed to secure a victory against the Czech Republic but suffered defeats against Mexico and South Africa.
In his resignation announcement, Chung reflected on both the achievements and shortcomings of his leadership.
The national men's football team of South Korea, one of Asia's leading teams, reached its zenith by finishing fourth in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted with Japan. The team advanced to the semifinals before being defeated by Germany, who subsequently lost to Brazil in the final.