Riot police have been deployed after death threats were made towards a World Cup manager following their exit at the tournament
Significant security arrangements have reportedly been implemented ahead of Korea Republic’s homecoming following a disappointing World Cup campaign.
Over 160 riot police have been deployed to the airport as their World Cup delegation returns to the nation.
The Sun reports 25 specialist security personnel will also support the 160 riot officers, to quash any disorder after manager Hong Myung-bo was purportedly sent death threats.
He’s subsequently stepped down from his role following their World Cup group stage elimination, and the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency has issued a statement before their arrival.
A police statement read: “We have decided to deploy officers to prevent safety accidents that may occur during the entry process. We will respond strictly to any illegal acts, including the throwing of objects.”
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Myung-bo’s departure made him the fourth manager to leave his position following a disappointing tournament in North America.
South Korea made an encouraging beginning to their World Cup 2026 campaign, beating Czechia 2-1, but matters rapidly deteriorated.
Back-to-back 1-0 losses to Mexico and South Africa ended their competition prematurely, as they failed to qualify among the top eight third-place teams.
With many having anticipated South Korea to progress to the knockout stages, irate supporters were quick to launch a petition calling for Hong’s dismissal from the role.
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung also expressed his shock at the premature departure, demanding an inquiry into what had gone awry.
Hong formally announced his resignation at a press conference in Mexico on Sunday.
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His reputation in South Korea plummeted so drastically that he was allegedly refused service at numerous shops and restaurants. President Lee’s comments on X were equally damning.
He wrote: “I am not just taken aback by this unexpected outcome, I am utterly baffled.
“Once again, it has been proven that personnel decisions are everything. When loyalty and factionalism are valued over competence, and an incapable person is appointed as a leader, the outcome is as predictable as fire.”
This represented Hong’s second stint in command of the national team, having previously guided them to the 2014 World Cup before resigning.
His comeback to the position in 2024 sparked allegations from Korean media of cronyism and a lack of openness in the appointment process, all of which Hong denied.
“Even though I am leaving the national team, I am not abandoning Korean football altogether,” Hong said. “I will cheer for the national team from the bottom of my heart and hope that the team will be trusted and loved by the people once again.”
Fans had become disenchanted with Hong, as evidenced by a petition calling for his dismissal and sweeping reforms to South Korea’s national team structure.
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