South Korea coach resigns after World Cup exit, public backlash

South Korea head coach Hong Myung-Bo has stepped down following the country’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to a reign that had come under intense criticism from supporters and government officials.
Hong’s resignation comes days after South Korea crashed out in the group stage, finishing third in Group A behind Mexico and South Africa despite opening the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Czechia. Consecutive 1-0 defeats to Mexico and South Africa e