The report says South Korea’s exit followed a 1-0 defeat to South Africa, despite needing only a draw to reach the knockout stage. The decision to leave captain Son Heung-min on the bench reportedly became a lightning rod for criticism, with Hong facing a hostile reception on the team’s return home.
That scrutiny is understandable. A narrow defeat can turn on fine margins, but leaving a senior leader out of a decisive match invites questions about selection, timing and trust. Hong’s apology acknowledged the outcome; it did not, by itself, settle the debate over his choices.
Lawmakers also questioned whether Hong received preferential treatment when appointed in 2024. He denied it, saying, “Acredito que os procedimentos adequados foram seguidos,” and that he had asked for no “nenhum favor ou benefício especial.”
His reported salary also came under scrutiny. Hong said the figure cited by lawmakers was wrong, but did not disclose the amount he received. That leaves the wider issue unresolved: confidence in the Korea Football Association’s selection process, not just the coach’s tactical decisions.
For Hong, accepting responsibility may be the clearest answer available after an elimination that fell short of expectations. For South Korean football, the harder task is to address the questions about recruitment and rebuild trust with supporters. The next test will be whether the association can make its decision-making more transparent before the next major tournament cycle begins.