South Korea Misses Top 32; Son Heung-min Apologizes, Vows to Win Back Fans

2026 World Cup Key News

(CNA Seoul, June 30, Comprehensive Foreign News) South Korean captain Son Heung-min apologized to fans today for the team's disastrous elimination in the first round of the World Cup, stating that this reality is "difficult to accept."

According to AFP, South Korea failed to advance to the knockout stage as one of the eight best third-placed teams in the group stage of this World Cup, thus ending their journey in the group stage and being eliminated early.

South Korea was initially favored to advance to the top 32, but unexpectedly lost 0-1 to lower-ranked South Africa in the final group match, bringing their World Cup journey to an end.

In the match against South Africa, South Korea would have likely advanced with a draw, but former Tottenham captain Son Heung-min was on the bench in the first half and did not start.

Son Heung-min played the entire second half, but unfortunately could not turn the tide and overcome the 0-1 deficit. The result immediately led to strong criticism of head coach Hong Myung-bo, who announced his resignation on the 28th.

Son Heung-min wrote on Instagram: "Honestly, I don't know where to begin. I can't pretend that nothing happened, nor do I want to escape reality."

He added: "First and foremost, I want to offer my sincerest apologies to the Korean people and all the fans who support and love our national football team."

Son Heung-min said that South Korea's early exit was unbelievable, saying: "To be honest, even now, it's still not easy to accept this reality."

It is widely expected that this World Cup was Son Heung-min's fourth appearance and likely his last dance. Now that the competition is over, discussions about whether he will continue to represent the national team are ongoing.

Son Heung-min did not mention retirement in his post, but he emphasized that he will do his best to win back the hearts of the fans.

Son Heung-min, who will turn 34 next month, said: "Rather than trying to explain everything with words right now, I want to do my best in my position to win back the hearts of the Korean people and fans. I will do my utmost to bring you joy again." (Compiled by Chen Yu-ting) 1150630

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