Jung Mong-gyu, president of the Korea Football Association, announced he will resign from his position after the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1].
The departure of the KFA leader marks a significant transition for South Korean football governance following a period of leadership stability and public scrutiny.
Jung said that his final duty is to support the national team's performance during the tournament. He said he will do his best to ensure the team achieves results in the finals [1]. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across North, Central, and Caribbean America [1].
According to the announcement, Jung plans to submit his resignation after the World Cup concludes on July 19, 2026 [1]. He said the decision came after careful consideration and that a responsible attitude is necessary to pursue the long-term vision of the KFA [1].
"I intend to step down from the position of association president after this World Cup," Jung said [1]. He said he decided this after reflecting on the fact that it is a time when a responsible attitude is needed [1].
This announcement follows a period of strong internal support for his leadership. In February of the previous year, Jung was re-elected to a fourth term with an 85.6% approval rating [1]. Despite that support, he said that supporting the national team's success remains his primary remaining obligation as president [1].
“"I intend to step down from the position of association president after this World Cup,"”
Jung Mong-gyu's decision to tie his exit to the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup ensures leadership continuity through a major global event while acknowledging the need for a fresh governance approach. By framing the resignation as a 'responsible attitude,' the KFA is signaling a transition toward new leadership to oversee the long-term strategic growth of South Korean football after the tournament cycle ends.
